The instant Sunday Times bestseller
Blackwell's Book of the Year
Shortlisted for Waterstones Book of the Year

'The star of her generation' – Dan Snow, host of History Hit
'Utterly, utterly brilliant' – Tracy Borman, author of The King's Witch

With a beautifully foiled jacket, this award-winning book is the perfect Christmas gift for history lovers.

What happens if the First World War breaks out while you’re at university?
How does a young woman born without arms or legs make a living in Georgian London?
What turns a rugby-obsessed teenager from a Welsh mining town into Richard Burton?

In this witty history, award-winning writer and broadcaster Alice Loxton delves into Britain’s past, exploring the country through eighteen inspiring figures at the formative age of eighteen. From a young Elizabeth Tudor facing deadly intrigue at court to Empress Matilda already changing the fate of nations, Eighteen invites readers to join an eclectic cast of young Britons across the nation and throughout its history.

'Brilliantly original, wonderfully perceptive and full of rich insights . . . Loxton has confirmed her place as one of our most exciting and talented young historians' – James Holland, bestselling author and historian
'Bursting with ideas and images' – Philippa Gregory, author of The Other Boleyn Girl