Why the Dutch Are Different

A Journey into the Hidden Heart of the Netherlands

By: Ben Coates

Narrated by: Ciaran Saward

Stranded at Schiphol airport, Ben Coates called up a friendly Dutch girl he'd met some months earlier. He stayed for dinner. Actually, he stayed for good.

In the first book to consider the hidden heart and history of the Netherlands from a modern perspective, the author explores the length and breadth of his adopted homeland and discovers why one of the world's smallest countries is also so significant and so fascinating.

Ben Coates investigates what makes the Dutch the Dutch, why the Netherlands is much more than Holland, and why the color orange is so important. Along the way he reveals why they are the world's tallest people and have the best carnival outside Brazil. He learns why Amsterdam's brothels are going out of business, who really killed Anne Frank, and how the Dutch manage to be richer than almost everyone else despite working far less. He also discovers a country which is changing fast, with the Dutch now questioning many of the liberal policies which made their nation famous.

A personal portrait of a fascinating people, a sideways history, and an entertaining travelogue, Why the Dutch Are Different is the story of an Englishman who went Dutch. And loved it.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2015 Ben Coates (P)2021 Tantor

Ah, the Netherlands

Vivid story telling about this country and it’s history. A good overview from a contemporary perspective.

Oh mate!

Great story and narration. The author really takes you to through the places he visits.

Well worth the listen!

Historical background intertwined with modern Netherlands. It was an excellent book to listen to in preparation for my upcoming trip to the Netherlands.

Excellent preparation for upcoming trip!

This book is just the right mix of history, anecdote and personal story which allows for a wonderful introduction to the country.

Insightful and informative

The book draws from both historical and personal experiences of the next bat living in Rotterdam. The story is a clever intertwining of contemporary experiences and historical context, presenting a full explanation of “why the Dutch are different“. I thoroughly enjoyed the book.