Sir Bernard Zissman, former Lord Mayor of Birmingham and one of the driving political forces of the city's development during the 1980s including the International Convention Centre and Symphony Hall, takes an imaginary journey back in time to meet with that great civic visionary, Joseph Chamberlain. Zissman traces the earlier origins of Birmingham's innovative municipal development in the 19th century in conversation with Chamberlain, then turns the clock forward to his own time in power which laid the foundation for much of the city centre development that has transformed Birmingham in the late 20th century. The two men exchange views, discuss their respective periods in office and discover many instances of common interest along the way. In this unique encounter spanning two centuries, Zissman and Chamberlain contrast their experiences and how national and international influences touched both their lives. The story brings to life the challenges of developing a great city and eavesdrops on private conversations between two city fathers a century apart. A Knight out with Chamberlain in Birmingham will fascinate and delight anyone with an interest in the story of Birmingham's rise from a great industrial centre to become one of Britain's truly international cities today.

Paperback (23.5cm x 16cm) 208 pages, illustrated
(ISBN 09530012-7-X)

Reviews of A KNIGHT OUT WITH CHAMBERLAIN IN BIRMINGHAM

"Time travel through the streets of Birmingham." Birmingham Post

"It all happens in A Knight Out with Chamberlain." Sunday Mercury

"An enjoyable and informative read." Birmingham Jewish Recor