Portrait of Britain

I was puzzled by one of author Bill Bryson’s conclusions in “Notes From a Small Island: An Affectionate Portrait of Britain,” which was reviewed by John Muncie in Books to Go on April 14 (“What’s So Great About Britain?”). Bryson says that “the sort of person who will talk to you on a train is . . . the sort of person you don’t want to talk to on a train.”

I, even in 1989 a grandmotherly type, made a trip similar to Bryson’s, traveling alone by train, coach, river boat, Underground and local bus. My experience was very different. I didn’t find my seat companions lovable, but rather endlessly cheerful, witty and interested in me. These people ranged from an attractive young man to less-than-attractive elderly women. On two lengthy trips, my companion and I ended up shaking hands and thanking one another for the conversation.

Invariably, the Britons were the initiators. I must add that if any attempt at talk had been unwelcome, I would have retreated behind a book.

KATHARINE McCORMACK

Tarzana