England, England

Set on the Isle of Wight, the story explores a whimsical England crafted by tycoon Sir Jack Pitman, featuring charming replicas and attractions. Martha Cochrane, part of his team, helps realize this fantastical vision, but as the project spirals into chaos, she begins to envision her own ideal England. Julian Barnes weaves a narrative that blends humor with deeper reflections on authenticity and national identity, offering a thought-provoking and entertaining commentary on the nature of reality versus illusion.