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Just Good Manners

Just Good Manners

A Quintessential Guide to Courtesy, Charm, Grace and Decorum

Summary

A Sunday Times Bestseller

'Incredibly interesting and very funny.' - The Times


'This book sparkles like the cut glass of a crystal decanter.' Tom Allen, comedian
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What is the correct way to queue at the bar? And why exactly do the English say sorry so much?

No one makes such a fuss about manners quite as much as the UK, yet in a fast-changing world, no one can seem to agree on precisely what the ‘done thing’ is, either. William Hanson, world-leading etiquette expert is on a mission to reclaim the British crown of good manners. In Just Good Manners, he shares his definitive guidance on how to behave in every situation - as well as celebrating our country’s distinctively British way of doing things!

With the perfect dose of William’s inimitable dry humour, Just Good Manners is the indispensable modern guide to British etiquette and customs – from table manners to top hats.

'A well-researched and fascinating book that is also great fun. A must for anyone who aspires to polish up their manners.' Anne Glenconner, author of Lady in Waiting

'An etiquette genius with a stunning eye for detail - he's the only person who knows more about buffet suppers than I do.' Camilla Long

‘Funny and unapologetic, here is a timely reminder that there is nothing divisive or old-fashioned about good manners.’ Robert Hardman, author of Charles III: The Inside Story

*Sunday Times Bestseller, September 2024

Reviews

  • 'William Hanson is doing for etiquette what Hyacinth Bucket did for candlelight suppers. This book sparkles like the cut glass of a crystal decanter. This isn't just a set of rules on how to act posh, this is a guide to treating one another with respect. Now more than ever, who wouldn’t want to learn about that?'
    Tom Allen, comedian

About the author

William Hanson

Widely regarded as one of Britain’s freshest and most trusted authorities on etiquette, William’s ‘day job’ is as director of The English Manner, a leading UK etiquette training institute, where he advises individuals, organisations, and films on correct form and good manners.

He is also known for appearances on television, radio and most notably his podcast Help I Sexted My Boss, which regularly leads the Apple Podcasts and Spotify charts. In 2021, he also launched Keeping Up Appearances: The Luxury Podcast, which begins its fifth series later in April 2024.

William is the author of four books, including the Sunday Times bestseller Help I S*xted My Boss (2023).

William was the on-set etiquette advisor for the Amazon Prime Video film Red, White and Royal Blue and, for some reason, holds two Guinness World Records for etiquette, set in 2012 and 2019.
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