This year’s Warwick Words History Festival is all set to welcome best-selling author Terry Deary for an entertaining romp through British history on Sunday 6 October. 

His laugh-out loud A History of Britain in Ten Enemies argues that nations and their leaders are defined by the enemies they make and explores how far a common enemy can unite a nation more effectively than a common friend.  

With no glory to be had from defeating a weak opponent, from the Romans to the Germans, the British have proud history of choosing their enemies - Boudica would have been forgotten were it not for the Ninth Legion; Elizabeth I a minor royal without the Spanish Armada; Churchill an Opposition windbag without the Nazis.

Among other events, A History of Britain in Ten Enemies recounts how the last invasion of Britain was foiled by a female Welsh cobbler when Napoleon tried to sneak into Bristol but was blown of course and landed in Fishguard; the worst defeat in British history when the Dutch sailed into the main Royal Navy  Dock; why seaman Jack Crawford  should be more celebrated than Lord Nelson; monarchs of England who were not actually English; the private who accidentally let Hitler escape, local soldier Hanry Tandey, and the deadliest enemy of modern British monarchs - cigarettes.

The book offers a history of Britain reflected in the mirrors of ten enemies and questions whether the British are deluding themselves in believing in their own greatness.

Warwick Words History Festival Executive Director Helen Meeke said, ‘A History of Britain in Ten Enemies reflects a love of history and story married to wit and humour and makes you question everything you thought you knew about famous events in British history.’

Terry Deary is also the author of the multi-million selling very funny Horrible Histories.
This year’s Warwick Words History Festival runs from Friday 30 September to Sunday 6 October in the town where its main venue will be Castle Hill Baptist Church.

The Festival’s wide-ranging programme offers a mix of talks, walks and tours.
As part of a new initiative, this year the popular post-Festival Warwick University Talks will take place on a single day.

Tickets for all events are on sale either online at www.warwickwords.co.uk, by telephoning the Box Office 01926 334418, or in person at Leamington Spa and Warwick Visitor Information Centres.

For the full Festival programme and to join Warwick Words History Festival mailing list visit the website.