Cranks and revolutions

Deftly combining elements of drama, humor, and historical documentary, this novel tells the story of two brothers and the different paths they choose after growing up in the tumult of the 1960s–amid marches in favor of nuclear disarmament, fundraisers for victims of civil war, and relief of environmental disasters. Initially inspired by the music of Bob Dylan, the elder brother, Rob, campaigns passionately against the Vietnam War and apartheid before settling down with marriage, his children, and a career. But the younger boy, Tom, stays true to his roots and remains involved in all the major campaign issues of the day. Set primarily against the backdrop of Great Britain, as created by Margaret Thatcher and Tony Blair, this narrative explores the last half-century of radical protest in the UK.