Last year we wrote that 2020 was the “strangest year of our lives”; little did we know what 2021 would have in store.

Of course, Covid-19 dominated the headlines, but we also had the storming of Capitol Hill, COP26, the Channel crossings as well as a political scandal or two or three or four…

Throughout 2021, the highs and the lows, we have greatly enjoyed bringing our readers the latest commentary and analysis on politics, news and culture.

For now, the Reaction team is taking a short break but we are looking forward to publishing more great thinking and writing in the New Year. If you are not a member already, start 2022 off right and join Reaction now. Our welcome gift offer – a copy of the new George III biography by leading historian Andrew Roberts with every new annual membership purchased  – has proved very popular and we’re continuing it for a few weeks.

Normal service (including the daily evening email sent) will resume on Tuesday 4 January.

Until then, from the Reaction team, Happy New Year!