Bryson receives honorary OBE

Bestselling author Bill Bryson has received an honorary Order of the British Empire (OBE) from Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell for his contribution to literature.

Bill Bryson published his first book in 1985 and is best known for his extensive travel writings, including 'Notes on a Big Country' and 'A Walk in the Woods'.

In 2003, as part of World Book Day, voters in the UK chose Bryson's book 'Notes on a Small Island' as that which best describes British identity and the state of the nation.

As well as his travel memoirs, Bryson has also written two books on the history of the English language and a general science guide called 'A Short History of Nearly Everything'.

Born in Des Moines, Iowa, Bryson first came to Britain in the early 1970s as part of a backpacking tour of Europe. He returned in 1975 and settled in Yorkshire with his family.

He worked as a journalist until 1987, for both 'The Times' and 'The Independent’, becoming copy editor for The Times' business section and deputy business news editor for the Independent.

After moving back to the US in 1995, the Bill, his wife Cynthia and their four children returned to Britain in 2003 and currently live in Wymondham in Norfolk.

Besides writing, Bryson is currently a Commissioner for English Heritage and in 2005 succeeded the late Peter Ustinov as Chancellor of Durham University.

Commenting on the honorary OBE, Ms Jowell said: "Bill Bryson is one of Britain's most popular and best loved authors. Despite having been born and raised in the US, he has become a true British institution. He has not only delighted the British public with his witty and insightful writing, but educated and informed them as well."

Mr Bryson, attending the ceremony with his wife Cynthia, said: "I am surprised and very grateful to receive an honorary Order of the British Empire. It is a great honour."

Bryson's latest book, 'The Life and Times of The Thunderbolt Kid', is all about his upbringing in 1950s America

(KMcA)