Boris Johnson is known both as a politician and author, having written books spanning historical biography, political commentary, and collected journalism. This guide covers Boris Johnson books in order across different genres.
Historical Works
- The Churchill Factor: How One Man Made History (2014)
A personal examination of Winston Churchill’s life and legacy - The Dream of Rome (2006)
Analysis of the Roman Empire and its relevance to modern Europe - Life in the Fast Lane: The Johnson Guide to Cars (2007)
Collection of car reviews and automotive journalism - Johnson’s Life of London: The People Who Made the City That Made the World (2011)
Portraits of notable London figures through history
Political Works and Memoirs
- Friends, Voters, Countrymen: Jottings on the Stump (2001)
Account of his campaign to become MP for Henley - The Spirit of London (2012)
Updated version of Johnson’s Life of London - 72 Virgins (2004)
A novel about a terrorist plot in London - For the Record: Memoirs (2023)
Memoir of his time as Prime Minister - Unleashed: Inside Johnson’s Turbulent Premiership (2023)
Covers the dramatic period of Johnson’s time as Prime Minister, from his landslide election victory through the Covid pandemic to his eventual resignation. The book provides an insider’s perspective on key decisions and controversies, including the handling of the pandemic, Brexit implementation, and the “partygate” scandal. Notable for its detailed account of crisis management during Covid-19 and the author’s characteristic mix of personal anecdotes with political analysis. Particularly revealing about the internal workings of Downing Street during periods of intense pressure. While maintaining Johnson’s typical witty style, the book offers more serious reflection on leadership during crisis than his previous works.
Collected Journalism and Essays
- Lend Me Your Ears (2003)
Collection of various writings and journalism - Have I Got Views For You (2003)
Collection of political columns and commentary
Brexit-Related Works
- The Perils of the Pushy Parents: A Cautionary Tale (2007)
Essays on modern British society - Brexit Essays (2016)
Collection of writings on Britain’s exit from the EU
About Boris Johnson as an Author
Writing Style:
- Classical references and Latin quotations
- Humorous and informal tone
- Biographical approach to historical subjects
- Journalistic narrative style
- Personal anecdotes mixed with historical analysis
Notable Characteristics:
- Blend of history and contemporary commentary
- Classical education influences
- Use of humor in serious subjects
- Journalistic background evident in writing style
- Political perspective informed by historical analysis
Recurring Themes:
- British exceptionalism
- Classical civilization
- Conservative political philosophy
- London’s history and character
- Leadership and power
- Historical parallels with modern politics
Reading Order Recommendations
For Political Readers
- Start with Friends, Voters, Countrymen
- Progress to Have I Got Views For You
- Follow with Unleashed for recent political insights
- Continue with Brexit-related writings
For History Enthusiasts
- Begin with The Churchill Factor
- Continue with The Dream of Rome
- Follow with Johnson’s Life of London
For Journalism Fans
- Start with Lend Me Your Ears
- Progress through collected columns and essays
For Contemporary Politics Focus
- Start with Unleashed
- Follow with For the Record
- Continue with Brexit writings
Publication Context
Johnson’s writing career spans his time as:
- Journalist for The Times and The Daily Telegraph
- Editor of The Spectator
- MP for Henley
- Mayor of London
- Foreign Secretary
- Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
Many of his works reflect the political and social context of these roles, offering insight into his evolving political thinking and public persona.