A bit of News about Bear Necessities of Politics and Power

A Finalist in the Wishing Shelf Book Awards!

Well, slap my arse and call me Bearnard!
(Or don’t. I’m not sure that’s legally binding outside Twitter.)

A little bit of exciting book news has arrived, and I must admit, I’m absolutely chuffed to bits:

Bear Necessities of Politics and Power has been named a finalist in the 2024 Wishing Shelf Book Awards under the Adult Non-Fiction category!

For those unfamiliar, the Wishing Shelf Book Awards are a platform recognising independently published books. Instead of a few industry insiders making the call, these awards are judged by actual readers - book clubs, reading groups, and, in the case of children’s books, actual children (who, let’s be honest, are probably the most brutal critics of all).

Adult books are judged by two reading groups, one in London and another in Stockholm - so this recognition comes directly from engaged readers, not just industry gatekeepers. And for a book that is part political analysis, part historical irreverence, and part rant written in between cups of coffee and existential despair? I consider that a bloody great honour.

A Moment of Reflection (No, Really)

When I first put this book out into the world last year, I genuinely had no idea what the reaction would be.

Would people get it?

Would they laugh?

Would they throw it across the room in frustration? (All of which, frankly, are valid responses.)

But the reception has been incredible, and this latest recognition has only reinforced that.

A huge thank you to everyone who has picked up a copy, shared their thoughts, recommended it to a friend, or, in some cases, been caught reading it with a mixture of amusement and barely-contained rage. I see you. I appreciate you.

What People Are Saying About the Book

📖 "A handy primer for this uncertain world of ours, delivered with elegance and just a little bit of snark."
📖 "One of the best things about this book is how it doesn’t demand you agree with every point. Instead, it invites you to think, question, and engage."
📖 "At last, a book I can understand and learn from! At 72, I discovered an interest in politics but was woefully lacking in knowledge. This book explains things in a way I understand, which is no mean feat!"

And from the Wishing Shelf editorial review itself:

⭐ "An accessibly written journey through the history of politics. Highly recommended!"
⭐ "A no-holds-barred look at political ideology, from liberalism to neoliberalism, from conservatism to communism – and it’s all written in a highly amusing, informal (almost chatty) sort of way."
⭐ "If you’re on the hunt for a simply written, highly judgmental book on world politics, this is for you."
(Yes, highly judgmental. I’ll be taking that as a badge of honour.)

The Dorset Eye Review: A Masterclass in Political Theory

The Dorset Eye has also previously (and very welcomly) weighed in, calling Bear Necessities "a masterclass in political theory that combines wit, wisdom, and critical insight."

Here’s just a taste of what they had to say:

🔹 "Delightfully unorthodox yet thoroughly enlightening, this book serves as both a primer for novices and a humorous, thought-provoking guide for seasoned readers of political theory."

🔹 "Where traditional political theory books may tread carefully, Bear Necessities stomps in with unapologetic bear claws. Major’s unique voice, laced with humour and irony, immediately captivates the reader, making complex theories not only accessible but enjoyable."

🔹 "Major’s treatment of modern ideologies as quirky personalities is a brilliant twist—each one introduced like an eccentric family member. These characterisations are not only funny but sharply accurate."

🔹 "The comedic edge in these portrayals never detracts from their depth; rather, it serves to make each ideology’s impact more memorable."

🔹 "With wit, insight, and a keen eye for human nature, Major breathes new life into political theory, turning it into a delightful exploration of the ideas that shape our world."

I mean, I’d blush if I weren’t a bear.

What’s Next?

The winners of the Wishing Shelf Book Awards will be announced on April 1st, and until then, I’ll be crossing my paws. (It’s a bit tricky to type that way, but sacrifices must be made.)

Regardless of the outcome, I’m just incredibly grateful that the book has found its audience. If you haven’t picked up a copy yet and fancy a crash course in political theory that won’t bore you to tears, you can grab one here:

📚 The Great British Bookshop (Paperback & Hardback):
Order here

📚 Amazon (eBook version):
Get it here

Again, thank you all so much for your support, your messages, and your enthusiasm for a book that, in another world, might have just been me yelling into the void. It’s an absolute joy to be part of this conversation with you.

And now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to celebrate in the traditional manner: with coffee, a cinnamon bun, and a healthy dose of political despair.

🐻🖤