The Long Weekend: A Surprised American Mother in England - Hardcover

‘Ann Leary’s account of her young family’s triumph over adversity is fresh, heartfelt and hilarious. It’s like spending quality time with your smartest, funniest friend and learning there’s even more there to admire. I loved this book.’

Michael J. Fox

‘To my surprise, considering it’s about babies and things, I loved it.’

Frank Skinner

Funny, moving account of three months in London which changed three lives forever, following the premature arrival of baby Jack, by wife of comedian and film star Denis. Affectionate take on the Brits: why a consultant goes from Mr to Dr to Mr; the filthy taste of Lucozade and weird but ultimately – to Ann’s mind – successful workings of the NHS.

An incredible series of events kicks off during what was supposed to have been a brief, weekend-long trip to England for Denis to appear on Live at Paramount City.

At the time, Denis was an unknown comic still struggling for his big break, and Ann was just five-and-a-half months pregnant. Their weekend getaway took an unexpected turn the morning after their arrival, when Ann's waters broke as they strolled along Oxford Street. The premature start to Jack's entry into the world saw Ann end up in University College Hospital while Denis used the following months to make it in Britain as a stand up star, whilst partying with Jo Strummer and Mick Jagger in his spare time. It would be five months before the family would return to the United States.

The Leary's lives were suddently altered as they now revolved around the NHS, poll tax riots, mad cow disease and 24-hour badger watch on TV.

This is a funny but ultimately affectionate take on the Brits: why a consultant goes from Mr to Dr to Mr; the filthy taste of Lucosade; the wierd but ultimately – to her mind – successful workings of the NHS. This account of the Leary's three months in London is a travel log, an intimate and moving look at family life and the birth of a baby, as well as an insider's account of launching a major career in show business.