A readable & concise overview of the history, development and structures of the European Union.

Some EU enthusiasts may find the author a touch "euro-sceptical" but, to my mind, he does a good job in fairly describing the issues & challenges. Recommended. (Bickerton is a regular guest on the excellent podcast "Talking Politics". Also highly recommended.) ( )

It's rare that a book is both a solid, clear introduction to a complicated topic, and a good intervention in current arguments about that topic. Bickerton manages it here. It's not deep, because it's about 200 pages long (once you take out all the lovingly designed padding and black pages and so on). But it does make sense, and does point you to other resources should you want to go into it a bit more. And the central argument--the problem with the EU and its lack of democratic accountability are caused by the lack of democratic accountability and general stupidity of the governments of the member states--is perfectly convincing. ( )

Good overview of the history of the EU, as well as its current struggles and institutions. As riveting as complicated international law can be. ( )

Written and published shortly before Brexit by an informed academic Leaver, this book would have been best read about 2 years ago. It wouldn't have changed my Remain stance, largely because Bickerton, whilst able to show the flaws of the EU and the direction its heading, doesn't address the alternative history in which the EU doesn't exist. I think in some respect, because its neither the intended scope of the book nor is it an easy thought experiment. I fail when I try it myself, but it does color why I'm fundamentally Remain — the balance of benefit/loss sits with cross border cöoperation. Bickerton would argue the same, with less Federalism, but I think the flavour of his argument does in a none existent world where Lexit is a good idea. Nevertheless, he's gives a researched history of the EU and adds facts and anecdotes to my reform side

A great overview of the inner workings of the European Union. I deliberately read this to be more informed ahead of the EU Referendum, to the extent I finished the book on the morning of polling day itself. For me I feel I made an truly informed decision. Sadly, I'm not sure the majority of the electorate did the same. ( )