Let’s Be Honest: Truth, Lies And Politics is the latest book by Birmingham Yardley MP and Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls, Jess Phillips. Phillips shares her personal observations of how British politics has lost its way in recent years and what can be done to combat some of the ongoing issues.
The book has received mixed reviews, but I for one think it is a must-read for anyone interested in gaining a firm footing of the problems plaguing our country.
A Time for Truth
Let’s Be Honest blends Jess Phillips’ characteristic wit and passionate advocacy. In her direct but relatable conversations, Phillips critiques corruption in politics and such persistent issues as culture wars and election-focused policy-making that have contributed to the widespread frustration we see towards politicians. However, the book is not just a critique of what went wrong. Rather, it is a call to action to restore government honesty and transparency so the public can regain its trust in the British political system.
Despite its weighty subject matter, Let’s Be Honest addresses tough topics in a way that’s accessible. The use of humour softens Phillips’ more critical observations and helps the reader to immerse themselves more easily in the finer aspects of British politics. The balance between criticism and hope is delicate, but well handled. Readers gain a sense of agency and hope at a time when modern society is becoming more fractured.
A Book for Young Minds
Young people who may feel disillusioned and disconnected from political processes will benefit from the book’s candid look at the state of British politics.
Let’s Be Honest serves as a powerful call to action, showing how individuals, and especially the younger generation, can make a difference and be part of the decision-making process. Phillips’ emphasis on honesty, integrity, and grassroots activism can help galvanize young people to become more involved in their communities and local politics. With humour and a conversational tone, Phillips discusses key issues in an approachable and engaging manner for younger readers. This approach especially benefits those who find politics too complex or boring, helping to demystify it and make it more accessible.
Since young people are often at the forefront of societal change, Let’s Be Honest challenges them to question the status quo and persuades them of the need to do better.
Embracing Political Literacy
By simplifying the often complex and opaque world of politics, Let’s Be Honest contributes significantly to enhancing one’s political literacy skills. Phillips demystifies the British political system by breaking it down into manageable parts. Readers gain a clear understanding of how policies are made, how the media influences policymaking, and how political parties function. Any campaigner or activist who wants to engage more meaningfully with politics needs to understand how various things work.
A central theme of the book argues that increased political transparency is necessary because an informed public is essential to a robust democracy. Politicians must respond to the public’s desire for integrity, says Phillips. As readers, we gain a deeper understanding of the value of openness and how it aids accountability. Importantly, Phillips keeps it real by reminding us that anyone can engage in politics; no special diploma or badge is necessary to become involved. All you need is a little motivation, an understanding of the basics, and a desire to make change happen.
Meeting the Author
Phillips has never shied away from the reality of how widespread domestic violence is in this country. During one of her recent talks in Bath, I had an opportunity to listen and understand why Phillips believes survivors have been let down by the previous government, and how the new Labour government can make things better for them.
Part of Phillips’ commitment as a minister in the Home Office involves challenging institutional failures that allow domestic violence to persist. She discussed feeling a personal duty to hold the government and law enforcement accountable when they fail to protect victims. Changing the system— whether by pushing for more funding for women’s shelters or pressing for tougher sentences for abusers — is a core mission statement of hers.
Phillips has a reputation for being emotionally open and frank about her work on domestic violence. She often speaks with raw honesty about the pain, frustration, and anger that comes with witnessing the suffering caused by domestic abuse. This emotional attachment helps drive her political advocacy, even when progress seems slow or overwhelming.
Whether you’re a keen political observer or a newbie wanting to gain a better understanding of what’s happening in Britain, why, and what you can do about it, Let’s Be Honest unpacks tricky issues in a way that doesn’t cause brain fog.
Give it a try.
As for me, I give Jess Phillips 10/10 for the sheer brutal honesty and gutsyness of Let’s Be Honest.
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Sadie Trent
BA Politics and International Relations and LLM International Law Graduate from University of The West of England, Bristol
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