Unruly: The Ridiculous History of England’s Kings and Queens

British comedian Mitchell (Back Story) covers the oft-told history of English monarchs, from the mythical King Arthur up to the reign of Elizabeth I, in a cheerfully profane yet well-researched chronicle “that aims to be funny but not spoof, irreverent but not trivial.” Pop culture references are sprinkled throughout; for example, William the Conqueror’s undignified end receives a grumpy comparison to James Bond’s surprising demise in No Time to Die. (That is, he exploded.) One amusing bit likens exasperated Magna Carta–wielding nobles in the 13th century and their inept ruler King John to a modern retired couple who desperately need a break from each other. The Tudors provide plenty of fodder; Mitchell describes the 1520 Field of the Cloth of Gold as a “great big camp international summit” in which both Henry VIII and Francis I of France “proclaimed a vacuous bromance.” With a light tone and deep historical knowledge, Mitchell excavates a strong strain of absurdity running through the institution of the monarchy. This jocular account makes an old story feel fresh. (Oct.)