The new Elizabethans - James Naughtie

The official tie-in to the landmark new series on Radio 4, written and presented by one of the UK's leading commentators on social and political life - Jim Naughtie.

The perfect read for anyone who wants to gauge the depth and spread of creativity and genius in the British Isles over the past sixty years. To mark the Diamond Jubilee, Radio 4 has looked back over the span of Queen Elizabeth II reign thus far in order to identify and profile the people who have helped to define the era and whose achievements seem likely to stand the test of time.

From the broadcaster who brought A History of the World in 100 Objects to the radio, this new programme is a series of documentary profiles which celebrates the sixty New Elizabethans, from all walks of life in British society. It is a major portrait of most of the post-war period, highlighting its most significant figures and the most important areas of achievement in British life. With unique access to the Radio 4 scripts written by James Naughtie, it will be the perfect guide for anyone interested in our recent history, as well as those who wish to continue the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of HM The Queen.

Much as Jeremy Clarkson is able to elevate and popularize debate on the latest automobile to hit the British market, so Jim Naughtie's analysis and unique take on British life will bring this series, and book, to life. As Jim comments: "I was born just before the Queen's accession, so this history is mine too. The New Elizabethans have built the country that I live in, given it colour and life and, in part, made us all the people that we are."