Michael Holroyd, biographer of George Bernard Shaw and Lytton Strachey, sees cars as much more than a mode of transport. Drawing on anecdotes unearthed in the writing of biographies and his own memoirs, he delights in describing how this "magical new technology, full of excitement and mischief" became entwined with the progress of human life from the turn of the 20th century onwards.

In a conversational tone that suits the meandering subject matter, this slim volume serves as a vehicle for all manner of keen observations. Particularly memorable are the painter Augustus John's motoring exploits, including a drive from London to Dorset after just one driving lesson and without moving from first gear, in a two-seated Buick "crowded with friends".

Holroyd fondly recalls playing as a boy in his grandparents' eight-horsepower Ford, which takes on a poignant significance when he discovers its role in his aunt's ill-fated love affair. We read of his father's restless motoring across Britain in search of work, conveyed by romantic-sounding Zephyrs and Zodiacs, followed by his reliance in later life on his son's chauffeuring.

There are glimpses of insight into how car ownership changed society; after the second world war, Holroyd notes, women could drive without being seen as "fast". This is a companionable book, made to be raced through in one sitting.