We all take cabs from time to time and yet we assume they will be there, and all will be well. And most of the time, that’s the case. I usually try to treat myself with a cab ride once a year. It gives me a chance to sit in the passenger side and enjoy the view. When I’m driving myself, its hard to do that.

Ruth Finnegan believes that people may think that the lives of tax drivers are boring and inauthentic. But Finnegan shows that this isn’t the case at all. There is so much behind the scenes of a taxi driver that makes the job interesting. There are so many interesting people that a cab driver may meet. But there is also so much more as well.

Every taxi driver has a unique individuality. Therefore, he or she brings unique gifts to the job. The most interesting taxi drivers make the ride extra special for the passenger. I’ve had many interesting conversations with taxi drivers. Little did I know that some of them are so educated and well worth having a cup of coffee with.

Finnegan’s book covers the history of the taxi while considering the urban settings of England by using case studies. While taxi drivers are invisible to us, they are also authentic human beings, one with an active mind and intellect. Too many look down on taxi drivers. This book will give all readers an in-depth view of the taxi driver and will encourage all of us to be kinder to taxi drivers the next time we are passengers in a cab. Finnegan’s style is engaging and authentic. She introduces the history in an interesting and captivating way to display the diversity of the personal lives of the drivers. They are truly a unique bunch of individuals. Though thought of as ordinary, if thought of at all, the author proves that the lives of taxi drivers are anything but mundane. Most surprisingly, the author proves these drives are intelligent and knowledgeable.

I loved this book and will be rereading it in time. I purchased it for further reading and perusal. The book is deep and insightful. I will be looking out for books by Ruth Finnegan in the future.