The European Union

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View books by John Pinder, Simon Usherwood.

Excellent in principle but now, sadly, out of date - Rated
The EU is a very complex organisation and Pinder provides a clear, structured description, starting with the historical background of the EU's predecessor organisations, moving through its structure and institutions through to key issues such as budget and CAP, and social policy.

His explanation of the difference between a federal approach and inter-governmentalism is particularly interesting to Brits, and he makes the UK's position and actions (and those of others) clear in context.

The principles underlying the EU's creation, development and functioning are clearly explained.

My major criticism, though, is that so much has happened to the EU since the book's publication - the launch of the Euro and the accession of ten further countries in May 2004. These are prospects in the book - what we need is an up-to-date version which describes the impact of these important changes.

Charts of numbers of MEPs (and similar data) by country are of no more than historical interest when they're based on fifteen members. An updated version would get five stars from me.

Unclear and unfocused - Rated
I picked up this book to try and clear some of the confusion that surrounds the EU. Quite simply I wanted to understand what it was all about. As part of the 'Short Guide' series, the aim is to present topics in an accessible and clear way. What better subject than the EU for this series which despite having such a profound impact on our lives, few truly understand. Unfortunately, I was bitterly disappointed. From the word go, the author makes assumptions and far from presenting the topic in a clear and accessible way - he confuses and almost assumes those reading it are elected EU parliamentarians. I was crying out for a definition of some of the jargon in simple, clear english. What is qualified majority voting for example? If your aim is to give an understanding, you can't assume knowledge and just launch into the first chapter bandying it around. In fact, reading this book is similar to reading a dry contract.

Excellent - a stylish and well-presented introduction. - Rated
This is a superbly written précis - ideal for those with only a basic understanding of the complexities of the European Union - and an excellent springboard to more thorough books on the subject. The author is knowledgeable and opinionated, but generally able to present his work in an unbiased manner, without overburdening the reader with technical details about the various institutions.

For such a short book, it is remarkably comprehensive, including political, economic, legal and historical observations. I particularly enjoyed the presentation of the EU's history, with its emphasis on the characters that have been involved in the development of the EU. Pinder's views on Britain's role are obvious - he is a fervent Europhile - but he is also quick to point out the shortcomings of badly conceived or poorly executed policies in which Britain has played no part.

Given the current political climate, it was a pleasure to read a pro-European book written with authority and style. A far cry from the emotive rhetoric that pervaded the recent election campaign. This is compulsory reading for us all before the promised referendum on Europe.