Livingstone's London

Description

As a passionate Londoner, Ken Livingstone has seen London change dramatically over the last 60 years. From playing on bomb sites in an era where St Pauls was the tallest building in the city to 2018 where the gleaming towers of the Shard and Walkie Talkie dominate the skyline, thanks to new building rules introduced by his administration. With a witty and worldly eye he takes a look at his home town; the people, places and the politics that have shaped the landscape. On this personal journey he shares his views on every aspect of the city from his favourite tube line and most loved architecture to anecdotes about fellow politicians and the triumphs and disasters encountered running the largest metropolis in Europe.

Ken Livingstone was born into a working-class family in South London. In his early 20s he became interested in politics, swiftly rising through the Labour party to run the GLC. He went on to become MP for Brent and wrote a popular restaurant column for the Evening Standard. In 2000 he became the inaugural Mayor of London and served two terms. He was praised for integrating London's transport networks, improving social justice and supporting minority rights. In 2005 he led the team which brought home the Olympics and was widely lauded (even by opponents) for his leadership following the 7/7 bombings the day after. He lives in North West London with his family and dog Coco.