The History of "Punch"

A lively, meticulously researched chronicle of one of Britain’s most iconic satirical magazines, this book takes listeners back to the bustling world of Victorian print culture. Drawing on personal correspondence, unpublished letters, and the recollections of hundreds of former contributors, the author pieces together the tangled origins, early editors, and creative forces that shaped the weekly’s distinctive voice.

The narrative is enriched by original illustrations that punctuate key moments, while the author’s candid reflections on myth‑busting and scholarly debate give the history a warm, behind‑the‑scenes feel. Listeners will gain a vivid picture of the personalities, rivalries, and cultural currents that propelled the publication from its experimental beginnings to national fame—without venturing beyond the formative years that set the stage for its lasting legacy.