It's become a cliché in Britain to call somebody in the entertainment field a national institution -- but that's exactly what Dawn French is. As both comedienne and actress (the latter in both comedy and straight parts), she has become one of the best loved entertainers in the country. Her range is not wide (unlike her dimensions -- and that's the sort of joke she'd crack), but she is utterly winning in everything he does. And that quality continues in Dear Fatty, a truly entertaining memoir of an event-packed life.

The form of the book is a series of letters by French, conjuring her transformation from a West Country RAF girl to a star of the cult alternative comedy group The Comic Strip. This was followed by the groundbreaking all-female Girls on Top (which did much to establish the position of women in British comedy), the astonishing success of the TV series French and Saunders (with French's equally talented friend Jennifer Saunders) and the sitcom The Vicar of Dibley, where French's wickedly sardonic touch keeps the tweeness of the basic situation -- female vicar in a rustic town -- at bay.

For French, early dreams of becoming a ballerina or an air hostess came to nothing, but the loss to the worlds of dance and aviation was a gain for TV audiences. All of that, of course, is covered in this frequently hilarious and often moving collection. We are invited into her most personal relationships with (among others) her mother and father, her husband (fellow comedian Lenny Henry), and, of course, her most important comedic ally, Jennifer Saunders. Everything French describes -- from the agonies of being a teenager to the death of her father -- and (of course) the way in which society defines her by her generous size -- is treated with a highly diverting insight. Fans of Dawn French's TV appearances will lap it up, but Dear Fatty has a lot more to offer, even to those only vaguely familiar with her. But is anyone in Britain only vaguely familiar with Dawn French? --Barry Forshaw

What a fantastic book to read, 29 Nov 2008
When i first saw the title of her book i was wondering what this book was going to be about. But how wrong i was, the book was honest and to the point. Her revelations about her past really touched me and brought a few tears to my eyes. You clearly see how important her family are to her. Highly recommended!!!

I love this book, 25 Nov 2008
Dawn French is familiar to many people. She is well known for her comedy and for being half of French and Saunders, and as the wonderful Vicar of Dibley.

I personally love reading autobiography, coz I could learn a lot from their life experience. Dear Fatty is mostly about her early days in the Comic Strip, the films she took part in, as well as her recent roles. It is written as a series of letters, to diffrent people, and a large proportion of these are written to her father, who has much affect on her.
It is emotional.

All in all, I recommend this book to everybody, especially who are the fans of Dawn French.

Amazing person we love you, 25 Nov 2008
Dawn, anything you write we will love, because you are just an amazing person But this book is a must read for everyone!


Jennyxx

Fat...yes...but funny too!, 24 Nov 2008
I love books that are honest and get to the point. This, most readable of books, manages to do just that. Written in an amusing, yet clever style, the reader is left both entertained and enlightened by a book written by a 'celebrity' - but one that still has the common touch. I certainly cannot imagine the likes of Paris Hilton or Wayne Rooney producing a book so full of vivid prose and amusing stories. If you like books that are honest and funny I also recommend the book: One Love Two Colours: The unlikely marriage of a Punk Rocker & his African Queen, by Margaret Oshindele-Smith - a book (from a complete non-celebrity) that merges humour and wit via the true story of a Nigerian woman's experience of living in England.

Bit Disappointed, 23 Nov 2008
I am an avid reader I love autobiographies and although some of it was interesting, I was disappointed in some of it, and she writes letters to family members rather than a flowing biography. Only one letter to her husband who famously cheated on her, but theres no real relation to that, she must be so forgiving and reading it she is. I personally wouldnt recommend it unless you got it from a car boot for £2 then it may be worth reading, sorry Dawn but ive read much better

What a fantastic book to read, 29 Nov 2008
When i first saw the title of her book i was wondering what this book was going to be about. But how wrong i was, the book was honest and to the point. Her revelations about her past really touched me and brought a few tears to my eyes. You clearly see how important her family are to her. Highly recommended!!!

I love this book, 25 Nov 2008
Dawn French is familiar to many people. She is well known for her comedy and for being half of French and Saunders, and as the wonderful Vicar of Dibley.

I personally love reading autobiography, coz I could learn a lot from their life experience. Dear Fatty is mostly about her early days in the Comic Strip, the films she took part in, as well as her recent roles. It is written as a series of letters, to diffrent people, and a large proportion of these are written to her father, who has much affect on her.
It is emotional.

All in all, I recommend this book to everybody, especially who are the fans of Dawn French.

Amazing person we love you, 25 Nov 2008
Dawn, anything you write we will love, because you are just an amazing person But this book is a must read for everyone!


Jennyxx

Fat...yes...but funny too!, 24 Nov 2008
I love books that are honest and get to the point. This, most readable of books, manages to do just that. Written in an amusing, yet clever style, the reader is left both entertained and enlightened by a book written by a 'celebrity' - but one that still has the common touch. I certainly cannot imagine the likes of Paris Hilton or Wayne Rooney producing a book so full of vivid prose and amusing stories. If you like books that are honest and funny I also recommend the book: One Love Two Colours: The unlikely marriage of a Punk Rocker & his African Queen, by Margaret Oshindele-Smith - a book (from a complete non-celebrity) that merges humour and wit via the true story of a Nigerian woman's experience of living in England.

Bit Disappointed, 23 Nov 2008
I am an avid reader I love autobiographies and although some of it was interesting, I was disappointed in some of it, and she writes letters to family members rather than a flowing biography. Only one letter to her husband who famously cheated on her, but theres no real relation to that, she must be so forgiving and reading it she is. I personally wouldnt recommend it unless you got it from a car boot for £2 then it may be worth reading, sorry Dawn but ive read much better

Top Gear for "children", 02 Dec 2008
I bought the Big Book of Top Gear 2009 but returned it immediately as it is far too childish. It is a bit like buying a comic book for kids. Very disappointing. I'm giving it one star just because it's nearly Christmas.

Good book to accompany the series, 29 Nov 2008
My brother (who's in his late 20's) saw this book and said he wanted it, so i first went out to check it out. I forgot to check this book out but looked at the annual, but found that to be aimed at children (incidently, i found the annual is very good and has lots to do in it). I then ordered it and after reading some bad reviews, i started to worry. Today, i went into a shop and saw one, and to settle my nerves, i had a look at it. I enjoyed what i read of it. For those who complain that there are things from the series in it, it is a companion to the series, so it will have things already seen, which is expected of any book which comes from any series (cookery, comedy to name a few). Secondly, for those who say it's daft, top gear is a daft series anyway, and found a lot of stuff that would be said by the guys. If it had been about cars, then it would have been boring. The magazine focuses on the actual cars so if that's what you're after, then this is not the book for you. If you want a laugh and are a fan of the series, then this is for. After all, if it hadn't been good enough, it wouldn't have carried the top gear label with it. I'm looking forward to receiving the book and know my brother will love it.

FUNNY, 19 Nov 2008
I don't even watch Top Gear that religiously but I bought the book for my brother for Christmas. I opened it to write a message in the cover and ended up reading most of it! I laughed out loud on so many occasions, it is SO funny!! As funny if not funnier than the show.

A 'Marmite' book, if ever there was one..., 17 Nov 2008
You have to be a fan of the show to even have a chance of liking it (too many in-jokes for anyone who doesn't watch it regularly) but even then it's still gonna divide readers into two groups, lovers and haters.

To love it you'll most likely have to be either a teenager or one of those spikey-haired Evo-with-big-exhaust owners (or wanabee owners) who really think all the lads' messing about on-screen is GENUINELY funny, rather than just very mildly amusing and worth putting up with in order to see the good bits of the show.

I am a die-hard fan of the show - have been for years - but honestly...
Another reviewer compared it to one of those kiddie 'Annuals' - I agree, I think what they've done here is create a niche product, an Annual for teenagers rather than kids. This is NOT the TV show in book form - the show is SO MUCH better.

Excellent value and fun!!!, 17 Nov 2008
This easy read is this years ultimate stocking filler. It will make you want to re-watch all of the Top Gear episodes, so would be the perfect accompaniment to a box set.
It is appropriate for any age, and you don't even have to be a fan of the show. Be prepared to experience `lol' moments, and don't take it too seriously. excellent value for money!!!

Paul O'Grady, apart from being one of Britain's best loved entertainers, is a classic example of reinvention, as At My Mother’s Knee demonstrates. The young Liverpool entertainer, an altar boy from Irish Catholic Birkenhead, becomes the acid-tongued and outrageous drag queen Lily Savage, and moves from gay pubs to national television, creating something of a British comic institution en route (O'Grady's caustic drag character was a world away from safer predecessors such as Danny La Rue). But O'Grady (like other comic performers such as John Cleese) realised that comic creations can have a limited shelf life, and reinvented himself as ‘Paul O'Grady’, coming out from behind the false breasts and towering wigs as a toned-down (but still camp), more audience-friendly TV presenter (wisely, he retained the abrasive voice and a Scouse accent that could be cut with a knife).

At My Mother's Knee and Other Low Joints is an entertaining autobiography from someone who really does have a life that is worth writing about. Gossipy, sharp and colourful, the cast of characters in Paul O'Grady's life includes rogues and rascals galore, all of whom are evoked here with great comic skill. O'Grady was variously a boxer, a civil servant, a conman and even a cat burglar - all of these failed careers are on display here, as is a surprisingly pungent picture of the Liverpool nightclub scene. When so many showbiz autobiographies these days are written by people who have a barely had a life outside of their fame, it's refreshing to encounter one by somebody whose story would be interesting even if he were not a major TV star. --Barry Forshaw

What a fantastic book to read, 29 Nov 2008
When i first saw the title of her book i was wondering what this book was going to be about. But how wrong i was, the book was honest and to the point. Her revelations about her past really touched me and brought a few tears to my eyes. You clearly see how important her family are to her. Highly recommended!!!

I love this book, 25 Nov 2008
Dawn French is familiar to many people. She is well known for her comedy and for being half of French and Saunders, and as the wonderful Vicar of Dibley.

I personally love reading autobiography, coz I could learn a lot from their life experience. Dear Fatty is mostly about her early days in the Comic Strip, the films she took part in, as well as her recent roles. It is written as a series of letters, to diffrent people, and a large proportion of these are written to her father, who has much affect on her.
It is emotional.

All in all, I recommend this book to everybody, especially who are the fans of Dawn French.

Amazing person we love you, 25 Nov 2008
Dawn, anything you write we will love, because you are just an amazing person But this book is a must read for everyone!


Jennyxx

Fat...yes...but funny too!, 24 Nov 2008
I love books that are honest and get to the point. This, most readable of books, manages to do just that. Written in an amusing, yet clever style, the reader is left both entertained and enlightened by a book written by a 'celebrity' - but one that still has the common touch. I certainly cannot imagine the likes of Paris Hilton or Wayne Rooney producing a book so full of vivid prose and amusing stories. If you like books that are honest and funny I also recommend the book: One Love Two Colours: The unlikely marriage of a Punk Rocker & his African Queen, by Margaret Oshindele-Smith - a book (from a complete non-celebrity) that merges humour and wit via the true story of a Nigerian woman's experience of living in England.

Bit Disappointed, 23 Nov 2008
I am an avid reader I love autobiographies and although some of it was interesting, I was disappointed in some of it, and she writes letters to family members rather than a flowing biography. Only one letter to her husband who famously cheated on her, but theres no real relation to that, she must be so forgiving and reading it she is. I personally wouldnt recommend it unless you got it from a car boot for £2 then it may be worth reading, sorry Dawn but ive read much better

Top Gear for "children", 02 Dec 2008
I bought the Big Book of Top Gear 2009 but returned it immediately as it is far too childish. It is a bit like buying a comic book for kids. Very disappointing. I'm giving it one star just because it's nearly Christmas.

Good book to accompany the series, 29 Nov 2008
My brother (who's in his late 20's) saw this book and said he wanted it, so i first went out to check it out. I forgot to check this book out but looked at the annual, but found that to be aimed at children (incidently, i found the annual is very good and has lots to do in it). I then ordered it and after reading some bad reviews, i started to worry. Today, i went into a shop and saw one, and to settle my nerves, i had a look at it. I enjoyed what i read of it. For those who complain that there are things from the series in it, it is a companion to the series, so it will have things already seen, which is expected of any book which comes from any series (cookery, comedy to name a few). Secondly, for those who say it's daft, top gear is a daft series anyway, and found a lot of stuff that would be said by the guys. If it had been about cars, then it would have been boring. The magazine focuses on the actual cars so if that's what you're after, then this is not the book for you. If you want a laugh and are a fan of the series, then this is for. After all, if it hadn't been good enough, it wouldn't have carried the top gear label with it. I'm looking forward to receiving the book and know my brother will love it.

FUNNY, 19 Nov 2008
I don't even watch Top Gear that religiously but I bought the book for my brother for Christmas. I opened it to write a message in the cover and ended up reading most of it! I laughed out loud on so many occasions, it is SO funny!! As funny if not funnier than the show.

A 'Marmite' book, if ever there was one..., 17 Nov 2008
You have to be a fan of the show to even have a chance of liking it (too many in-jokes for anyone who doesn't watch it regularly) but even then it's still gonna divide readers into two groups, lovers and haters.

To love it you'll most likely have to be either a teenager or one of those spikey-haired Evo-with-big-exhaust owners (or wanabee owners) who really think all the lads' messing about on-screen is GENUINELY funny, rather than just very mildly amusing and worth putting up with in order to see the good bits of the show.

I am a die-hard fan of the show - have been for years - but honestly...
Another reviewer compared it to one of those kiddie 'Annuals' - I agree, I think what they've done here is create a niche product, an Annual for teenagers rather than kids. This is NOT the TV show in book form - the show is SO MUCH better.

Excellent value and fun!!!, 17 Nov 2008
This easy read is this years ultimate stocking filler. It will make you want to re-watch all of the Top Gear episodes, so would be the perfect accompaniment to a box set.
It is appropriate for any age, and you don't even have to be a fan of the show. Be prepared to experience `lol' moments, and don't take it too seriously. excellent value for money!!!


Brilliant and hilarious, 01 Dec 2008
What can I say?...brilliant!. I havent laughed so hard for years and really couldnt put this book down, in fact I finished it 12 hours after I began reading.In many ways I could relate to Pauls early years .I was , however, rather upset to find out that the book only goes up to his 18th year!. Come on Paul, we want more!!!!.

Excellent!, 22 Nov 2008
This was a fantastic read and one I managed to complete very quickly. I loved the early years of Paul's life in which he describes his mother and aunts. It reminded me so much of my long missed grandmother and the things that those women of a post war era got up to.
Absolutely loved the way the book was set out, it was coherent unlike some autobiographies and gave a great insight into Paul's life that is honest and forthright. The later years were interesting and again very honest. This man has certainly lead a very interesting life (and the book ends when he is eighteen)and I can't wait to read the next installment and find out how LIly Savage came to be and what other (mis)adventures Paul got up to in the proceeding years.
Highly recommended.

Paul O'Grady at his mothers knee., 11 Nov 2008
Have just finished reading this,what a fantastic read!! Very funny don't read this last thing at night as you won't be able to sleep for laughing! Buy it you won't regret it!

Wonderful book, 02 Nov 2008
Best book I've read this year. Very well written. Full of life and also very funny indeed. Don't like using cliches, but this is definitely an 'instant classic'.

Tears and laughter, 22 Oct 2008
You can actually hear Paul dictating the words. There are heart tugging moments but there are also laugh out loud moments from a giggle to a hearty belly laugh. The characters who populated Paul's world are larger than life and twice as funny. This is a book that is, to coin a word, unputdownable and one I shall keep. I can't wait for the next one.

What a fantastic book to read, 29 Nov 2008
When i first saw the title of her book i was wondering what this book was going to be about. But how wrong i was, the book was honest and to the point. Her revelations about her past really touched me and brought a few tears to my eyes. You clearly see how important her family are to her. Highly recommended!!!

I love this book, 25 Nov 2008
Dawn French is familiar to many people. She is well known for her comedy and for being half of French and Saunders, and as the wonderful Vicar of Dibley.

I personally love reading autobiography, coz I could learn a lot from their life experience. Dear Fatty is mostly about her early days in the Comic Strip, the films she took part in, as well as her recent roles. It is written as a series of letters, to diffrent people, and a large proportion of these are written to her father, who has much affect on her.
It is emotional.

All in all, I recommend this book to everybody, especially who are the fans of Dawn French.

Amazing person we love you, 25 Nov 2008
Dawn, anything you write we will love, because you are just an amazing person But this book is a must read for everyone!


Jennyxx

Fat...yes...but funny too!, 24 Nov 2008
I love books that are honest and get to the point. This, most readable of books, manages to do just that. Written in an amusing, yet clever style, the reader is left both entertained and enlightened by a book written by a 'celebrity' - but one that still has the common touch. I certainly cannot imagine the likes of Paris Hilton or Wayne Rooney producing a book so full of vivid prose and amusing stories. If you like books that are honest and funny I also recommend the book: One Love Two Colours: The unlikely marriage of a Punk Rocker & his African Queen, by Margaret Oshindele-Smith - a book (from a complete non-celebrity) that merges humour and wit via the true story of a Nigerian woman's experience of living in England.

Bit Disappointed, 23 Nov 2008
I am an avid reader I love autobiographies and although some of it was interesting, I was disappointed in some of it, and she writes letters to family members rather than a flowing biography. Only one letter to her husband who famously cheated on her, but theres no real relation to that, she must be so forgiving and reading it she is. I personally wouldnt recommend it unless you got it from a car boot for £2 then it may be worth reading, sorry Dawn but ive read much better

Top Gear for "children", 02 Dec 2008
I bought the Big Book of Top Gear 2009 but returned it immediately as it is far too childish. It is a bit like buying a comic book for kids. Very disappointing. I'm giving it one star just because it's nearly Christmas.

Good book to accompany the series, 29 Nov 2008
My brother (who's in his late 20's) saw this book and said he wanted it, so i first went out to check it out. I forgot to check this book out but looked at the annual, but found that to be aimed at children (incidently, i found the annual is very good and has lots to do in it). I then ordered it and after reading some bad reviews, i started to worry. Today, i went into a shop and saw one, and to settle my nerves, i had a look at it. I enjoyed what i read of it. For those who complain that there are things from the series in it, it is a companion to the series, so it will have things already seen, which is expected of any book which comes from any series (cookery, comedy to name a few). Secondly, for those who say it's daft, top gear is a daft series anyway, and found a lot of stuff that would be said by the guys. If it had been about cars, then it would have been boring. The magazine focuses on the actual cars so if that's what you're after, then this is not the book for you. If you want a laugh and are a fan of the series, then this is for. After all, if it hadn't been good enough, it wouldn't have carried the top gear label with it. I'm looking forward to receiving the book and know my brother will love it.

FUNNY, 19 Nov 2008
I don't even watch Top Gear that religiously but I bought the book for my brother for Christmas. I opened it to write a message in the cover and ended up reading most of it! I laughed out loud on so many occasions, it is SO funny!! As funny if not funnier than the show.

A 'Marmite' book, if ever there was one..., 17 Nov 2008
You have to be a fan of the show to even have a chance of liking it (too many in-jokes for anyone who doesn't watch it regularly) but even then it's still gonna divide readers into two groups, lovers and haters.

To love it you'll most likely have to be either a teenager or one of those spikey-haired Evo-with-big-exhaust owners (or wanabee owners) who really think all the lads' messing about on-screen is GENUINELY funny, rather than just very mildly amusing and worth putting up with in order to see the good bits of the show.

I am a die-hard fan of the show - have been for years - but honestly...
Another reviewer compared it to one of those kiddie 'Annuals' - I agree, I think what they've done here is create a niche product, an Annual for teenagers rather than kids. This is NOT the TV show in book form - the show is SO MUCH better.

Excellent value and fun!!!, 17 Nov 2008
This easy read is this years ultimate stocking filler. It will make you want to re-watch all of the Top Gear episodes, so would be the perfect accompaniment to a box set.
It is appropriate for any age, and you don't even have to be a fan of the show. Be prepared to experience `lol' moments, and don't take it too seriously. excellent value for money!!!


Brilliant and hilarious, 01 Dec 2008
What can I say?...brilliant!. I havent laughed so hard for years and really couldnt put this book down, in fact I finished it 12 hours after I began reading.In many ways I could relate to Pauls early years .I was , however, rather upset to find out that the book only goes up to his 18th year!. Come on Paul, we want more!!!!.

Excellent!, 22 Nov 2008
This was a fantastic read and one I managed to complete very quickly. I loved the early years of Paul's life in which he describes his mother and aunts. It reminded me so much of my long missed grandmother and the things that those women of a post war era got up to.
Absolutely loved the way the book was set out, it was coherent unlike some autobiographies and gave a great insight into Paul's life that is honest and forthright. The later years were interesting and again very honest. This man has certainly lead a very interesting life (and the book ends when he is eighteen)and I can't wait to read the next installment and find out how LIly Savage came to be and what other (mis)adventures Paul got up to in the proceeding years.
Highly recommended.

Paul O'Grady at his mothers knee., 11 Nov 2008
Have just finished reading this,what a fantastic read!! Very funny don't read this last thing at night as you won't be able to sleep for laughing! Buy it you won't regret it!

Wonderful book, 02 Nov 2008
Best book I've read this year. Very well written. Full of life and also very funny indeed. Don't like using cliches, but this is definitely an 'instant classic'.

Tears and laughter, 22 Oct 2008
You can actually hear Paul dictating the words. There are heart tugging moments but there are also laugh out loud moments from a giggle to a hearty belly laugh. The characters who populated Paul's world are larger than life and twice as funny. This is a book that is, to coin a word, unputdownable and one I shall keep. I can't wait for the next one.

Could have been so much more interesting, 30 Nov 2008
Even as a non-Englishman (I'm Dutch) I was well-acquainted with the talk show Parkinson. I watched it whenever I had a chance to catch it and I admired the way Michael Parkinson was able to get interesting stories out of (almost) every one of his guests. That, combined with positive reviews of this book convinced me to buy it. Boy, was I wrong...
Unlike one of the other reviewers I was not hoping for gossip, but I would have liked some more details about the assorted guests on the show, especially the Hollywood stars from the days of old. He does tell us something about them, but not very much. Instead he just goes on and on about bloody cricket, which I couldn't care less about.
If you like Michael Parkinson: watch the shows, don't read this book!

this book is so so, 26 Nov 2008
Parky is familiar to almost everybody, and especially on X Factor you can see him a lot, but his this book: My Autobiography, is not so interesting. I couldnt wait to grab one from the book shelf, but once I've read it for some pages, I found it disappoiting, coz it didnt tell much about himself and his story on television, which could interest people more, especially women.

Parky the Master, 14 Nov 2008
I have been a fan of Parky for over 30 years. I had the privelege of hearing him being interviewed at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, in conjunction with promoting his book. He held the audience enthralled as he regaled us with tales from his most varied and interesting life and career.
I could not wait to read my signed copy; It is a good read, however, was practically verbatim with his interview. I then watched him being interviewed by Mark Lawson on television, again, same old same old. I suppose I was disappointed that The Master does indeed possibly use a script.
I would agree with one of the other reviewers, a tad too much cricket, but all round, a heartwarming account by an unassuming,
gentleman.


Disappointed and upset, 13 Nov 2008
I couldn't wait to grab this book from the shelf because I have always loved Parky and have grown up watching him on the telly for the past 30 years.

However, I was disappointed with this autobiography because he wrote far too much about cricket and football which, as a woman, doesn't interest me at all. Also, his chat show 'revelations' were nothing of the sort - we've heard it all before!

Above all, there was a very distressing event which he, graphically, describes as having had in Africa when he briefly had a go at being a war correspondent. Frankly, I can't get the incident out of my head and, as a result, I will not be giving this book to my mother for Christmas! It's far too upsetting.

To my mind, this book will, probably, be bought and read by women rather than men. To that end, I wish our dearest Parky had realised that we were looking for light-heartedness and gossip rather than torture and sport before he published it!

sweetly timed shot to the boundary - excellent, 18 Oct 2008
To Parky I say, thanks for this timely autobiography, and many 'thanks for the memories' from the last 30 years. I enjoyed the book very much. It came across as very honest and entertaining.

What a fantastic book to read, 29 Nov 2008
When i first saw the title of her book i was wondering what this book was going to be about. But how wrong i was, the book was honest and to the point. Her revelations about her past really touched me and brought a few tears to my eyes. You clearly see how important her family are to her. Highly recommended!!!

I love this book, 25 Nov 2008
Dawn French is familiar to many people. She is well known for her comedy and for being half of French and Saunders, and as the wonderful Vicar of Dibley.

I personally love reading autobiography, coz I could learn a lot from their life experience. Dear Fatty is mostly about her early days in the Comic Strip, the films she took part in, as well as her recent roles. It is written as a series of letters, to diffrent people, and a large proportion of these are written to her father, who has much affect on her.
It is emotional.

All in all, I recommend this book to everybody, especially who are the fans of Dawn French.

Amazing person we love you, 25 Nov 2008
Dawn, anything you write we will love, because you are just an amazing person But this book is a must read for everyone!


Jennyxx

Fat...yes...but funny too!, 24 Nov 2008
I love books that are honest and get to the point. This, most readable of books, manages to do just that. Written in an amusing, yet clever style, the reader is left both entertained and enlightened by a book written by a 'celebrity' - but one that still has the common touch. I certainly cannot imagine the likes of Paris Hilton or Wayne Rooney producing a book so full of vivid prose and amusing stories. If you like books that are honest and funny I also recommend the book: One Love Two Colours: The unlikely marriage of a Punk Rocker & his African Queen, by Margaret Oshindele-Smith - a book (from a complete non-celebrity) that merges humour and wit via the true story of a Nigerian woman's experience of living in England.

Bit Disappointed, 23 Nov 2008
I am an avid reader I love autobiographies and although some of it was interesting, I was disappointed in some of it, and she writes letters to family members rather than a flowing biography. Only one letter to her husband who famously cheated on her, but theres no real relation to that, she must be so forgiving and reading it she is. I personally wouldnt recommend it unless you got it from a car boot for £2 then it may be worth reading, sorry Dawn but ive read much better

Top Gear for "children", 02 Dec 2008
I bought the Big Book of Top Gear 2009 but returned it immediately as it is far too childish. It is a bit like buying a comic book for kids. Very disappointing. I'm giving it one star just because it's nearly Christmas.

Good book to accompany the series, 29 Nov 2008
My brother (who's in his late 20's) saw this book and said he wanted it, so i first went out to check it out. I forgot to check this book out but looked at the annual, but found that to be aimed at children (incidently, i found the annual is very good and has lots to do in it). I then ordered it and after reading some bad reviews, i started to worry. Today, i went into a shop and saw one, and to settle my nerves, i had a look at it. I enjoyed what i read of it. For those who complain that there are things from the series in it, it is a companion to the series, so it will have things already seen, which is expected of any book which comes from any series (cookery, comedy to name a few). Secondly, for those who say it's daft, top gear is a daft series anyway, and found a lot of stuff that would be said by the guys. If it had been about cars, then it would have been boring. The magazine focuses on the actual cars so if that's what you're after, then this is not the book for you. If you want a laugh and are a fan of the series, then this is for. After all, if it hadn't been good enough, it wouldn't have carried the top gear label with it. I'm looking forward to receiving the book and know my brother will love it.

FUNNY, 19 Nov 2008
I don't even watch Top Gear that religiously but I bought the book for my brother for Christmas. I opened it to write a message in the cover and ended up reading most of it! I laughed out loud on so many occasions, it is SO funny!! As funny if not funnier than the show.

A 'Marmite' book, if ever there was one..., 17 Nov 2008
You have to be a fan of the show to even have a chance of liking it (too many in-jokes for anyone who doesn't watch it regularly) but even then it's still gonna divide readers into two groups, lovers and haters.

To love it you'll most likely have to be either a teenager or one of those spikey-haired Evo-with-big-exhaust owners (or wanabee owners) who really think all the lads' messing about on-screen is GENUINELY funny, rather than just very mildly amusing and worth putting up with in order to see the good bits of the show.

I am a die-hard fan of the show - have been for years - but honestly...
Another reviewer compared it to one of those kiddie 'Annuals' - I agree, I think what they've done here is create a niche product, an Annual for teenagers rather than kids. This is NOT the TV show in book form - the show is SO MUCH better.

Excellent value and fun!!!, 17 Nov 2008
This easy read is this years ultimate stocking filler. It will make you want to re-watch all of the Top Gear episodes, so would be the perfect accompaniment to a box set.
It is appropriate for any age, and you don't even have to be a fan of the show. Be prepared to experience `lol' moments, and don't take it too seriously. excellent value for money!!!


Brilliant and hilarious, 01 Dec 2008
What can I say?...brilliant!. I havent laughed so hard for years and really couldnt put this book down, in fact I finished it 12 hours after I began reading.In many ways I could relate to Pauls early years .I was , however, rather upset to find out that the book only goes up to his 18th year!. Come on Paul, we want more!!!!.

Excellent!, 22 Nov 2008
This was a fantastic read and one I managed to complete very quickly. I loved the early years of Paul's life in which he describes his mother and aunts. It reminded me so much of my long missed grandmother and the things that those women of a post war era got up to.
Absolutely loved the way the book was set out, it was coherent unlike some autobiographies and gave a great insight into Paul's life that is honest and forthright. The later years were interesting and again very honest. This man has certainly lead a very interesting life (and the book ends when he is eighteen)and I can't wait to read the next installment and find out how LIly Savage came to be and what other (mis)adventures Paul got up to in the proceeding years.
Highly recommended.

Paul O'Grady at his mothers knee., 11 Nov 2008
Have just finished reading this,what a fantastic read!! Very funny don't read this last thing at night as you won't be able to sleep for laughing! Buy it you won't regret it!

Wonderful book, 02 Nov 2008
Best book I've read this year. Very well written. Full of life and also very funny indeed. Don't like using cliches, but this is definitely an 'instant classic'.

Tears and laughter, 22 Oct 2008
You can actually hear Paul dictating the words. There are heart tugging moments but there are also laugh out loud moments from a giggle to a hearty belly laugh. The characters who populated Paul's world are larger than life and twice as funny. This is a book that is, to coin a word, unputdownable and one I shall keep. I can't wait for the next one.

Could have been so much more interesting, 30 Nov 2008
Even as a non-Englishman (I'm Dutch) I was well-acquainted with the talk show Parkinson. I watched it whenever I had a chance to catch it and I admired the way Michael Parkinson was able to get interesting stories out of (almost) every one of his guests. That, combined with positive reviews of this book convinced me to buy it. Boy, was I wrong...
Unlike one of the other reviewers I was not hoping for gossip, but I would have liked some more details about the assorted guests on the show, especially the Hollywood stars from the days of old. He does tell us something about them, but not very much. Instead he just goes on and on about bloody cricket, which I couldn't care less about.
If you like Michael Parkinson: watch the shows, don't read this book!

this book is so so, 26 Nov 2008
Parky is familiar to almost everybody, and especially on X Factor you can see him a lot, but his this book: My Autobiography, is not so interesting. I couldnt wait to grab one from the book shelf, but once I've read it for some pages, I found it disappoiting, coz it didnt tell much about himself and his story on television, which could interest people more, especially women.

Parky the Master, 14 Nov 2008
I have been a fan of Parky for over 30 years. I had the privelege of hearing him being interviewed at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, in conjunction with promoting his book. He held the audience enthralled as he regaled us with tales from his most varied and interesting life and career.
I could not wait to read my signed copy; It is a good read, however, was practically verbatim with his interview. I then watched him being interviewed by Mark Lawson on television, again, same old same old. I suppose I was disappointed that The Master does indeed possibly use a script.
I would agree with one of the other reviewers, a tad too much cricket, but all round, a heartwarming account by an unassuming,
gentleman.


Disappointed and upset, 13 Nov 2008
I couldn't wait to grab this book from the shelf because I have always loved Parky and have grown up watching him on the telly for the past 30 years.

However, I was disappointed with this autobiography because he wrote far too much about cricket and football which, as a woman, doesn't interest me at all. Also, his chat show 'revelations' were nothing of the sort - we've heard it all before!

Above all, there was a very distressing event which he, graphically, describes as having had in Africa when he briefly had a go at being a war correspondent. Frankly, I can't get the incident out of my head and, as a result, I will not be giving this book to my mother for Christmas! It's far too upsetting.

To my mind, this book will, probably, be bought and read by women rather than men. To that end, I wish our dearest Parky had realised that we were looking for light-heartedness and gossip rather than torture and sport before he published it!

sweetly timed shot to the boundary - excellent, 18 Oct 2008
To Parky I say, thanks for this timely autobiography, and many 'thanks for the memories' from the last 30 years. I enjoyed the book very much. It came across as very honest and entertaining.

Brilliant!!!!!, 12 Nov 2008
This book is fantastic, alan carr is hillarious!!! Love him hes one of the best comedians out. His book had me laughing constantly, read it in a weekend because I just didnt want to put the book down it was so funny. There are no sob stories just pure comedy, loved it! Would recommend it to anyone.

Wonderful book, 05 Nov 2008
From the front cover flap:

Hello and welcome to my life.

Oh, and what a life! From the grimness of doing data entry for Mr Dog to the dizzy heights of `The Friday Night Project' and performing for Her Majesty at the Royal Variety Performance. My life's been like a long flume, up and down with a couple of damp patches in the middle.

Take my hand, I want to lead you through my life. Within these pages you will come face to face with my parents, my dog Minstrel, my friends and a whole load of waifs and strays that have helped to make my journey that little bit more memorable. When you read Look Who It Is! I'm sure you'll agree - it's just been one thing after another.


I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to all. It follows Alan's life up until he accepts the offer to host The Friday Night Project with Justin Lee Colins. It is easy to read, interesting and engaging. He was very honest and I feel I know him now, and would like to meet him. It was very enlightening, I had thought Alan had been on the comedy scene for longer than he has. In fact, it was around 2005 he began to get famous.

Alan does not just talk about comedy though. He speaks of his family, including his famous, football manager Dad, Graham Carr and all his life experiences to date, which include university, travelling around the world and horrid temp jobs such as working in a call centre. There were several things in this book I could relate too, which made it even more enjoyable.

The book was not as funny as I was expecting it to be, however it did have me laughing and chuckling in places so I don't feel particularly let down.

This is a great book; an honest story where Alan says it like it is, and doesn't go for the sympathy vote. It is a bit cheeky that he has left the door open for a sequel in a few years, but hey, good for him.

An enjoyable book.

9/10


All hail Alan Carr.., 04 Nov 2008
This book is amazing, it's one of the funniest books I have ever read. It took me quite a long time to read this book.. not because it was boring, because it was so funny I had to put it down after every couple of pages to recompose myself.

I challenge anyone to read this book without laughing outloud!

Alan we love you!


A must - read, 01 Nov 2008
I first saw Alan Carr on "8 Out Of 10 Cats" and he instantly made an impression on me. I think the reason people have taken him to heart is he doesnt take himself or anything seriously with is brand of self mockery and honesty accounts of a so far interesting life.
Lots of other people and written how you can't help but laugh out loud and its true i had to put the book down for abour five minutes purely because i couldnt go on as i was laughing too much.
Highlights include him dressing in a giant pig costume and nearly killing the family dog, wearing his moms knee high boots to get an ice cream and an account of Shirley Bassey and a stage handler behind the scenes of the Royal Variety Performance.
If you love Alan Carr or are just looking for an uplifting and touching book buy this - you wont be dissapointed.

Honesty is the word, 31 Oct 2008
As soon as l saw this book l wanted it, l was not going to browse past past. So l bought it,
and it arrived the next day.
I dropped what l was reading (which is unusual for me), and got started.
It comes through from an early age Alan is very happy with himself, it's
others around him, who don't see it the same way.
Don't think this is a constant laugh out loud book, there are some very
funny incidents, but Alan talks very VERY frankly about being Alan Carr.
How he appeared 1st time on stage, and vowed never to return.
Alan doesn't moan at life he gets on with it. He makes it very clear that
money was so very tight, and even I thought that appearing at the
Edinburgh Festival you made money from it, and he lost.
He isn't ashamed of the jobs he did, and "The Phantom" at one job.
He talks of his highs and lows of being on stage. But he doesn't hit the big time straight away.
The book isn't full of antidote's its about his life, and how easy it was to eventually go on stage. I can
understand how sensitive he is about audiences, especially the christian one!!!
Alan comes over a very humble person, he is not one boast about all the people whom he has met,
he is overwhelmed when Robbie Williams comes to talk to him, same with Charlotte Church.
If you didn't know Alan Carr at the start of this book, you will hopefully
love him at the end.
The book ends as of where he is now, it leaves no strings dangling.
Thoroughly enjoyed it.

What a fantastic book to read, 29 Nov 2008
When i first saw the title of her book i was wondering what this book was going to be about. But how wrong i was, the book was honest and to the point. Her revelations about her past really touched me and brought a few tears to my eyes. You clearly see how important her family are to her. Highly recommended!!!

I love this book, 25 Nov 2008
Dawn French is familiar to many people. She is well known for her comedy and for being half of French and Saunders, and as the wonderful Vicar of Dibley.

I personally love reading autobiography, coz I could learn a lot from their life experience. Dear Fatty is mostly about her early days in the Comic Strip, the films she took part in, as well as her recent roles. It is written as a series of letters, to diffrent people, and a large proportion of these are written to her father, who has much affect on her.
It is emotional.

All in all, I recommend this book to everybody, especially who are the fans of Dawn French.

Amazing person we love you, 25 Nov 2008
Dawn, anything you write we will love, because you are just an amazing person But this book is a must read for everyone!


Jennyxx

Fat...yes...but funny too!, 24 Nov 2008
I love books that are honest and get to the point. This, most readable of books, manages to do just that. Written in an amusing, yet clever style, the reader is left both entertained and enlightened by a book written by a 'celebrity' - but one that still has the common touch. I certainly cannot imagine the likes of Paris Hilton or Wayne Rooney producing a book so full of vivid prose and amusing stories. If you like books that are honest and funny I also recommend the book: One Love Two Colours: The unlikely marriage of a Punk Rocker & his African Queen, by Margaret Oshindele-Smith - a book (from a complete non-celebrity) that merges humour and wit via the true story of a Nigerian woman's experience of living in England.

Bit Disappointed, 23 Nov 2008
I am an avid reader I love autobiographies and although some of it was interesting, I was disappointed in some of it, and she writes letters to family members rather than a flowing biography. Only one letter to her husband who famously cheated on her, but theres no real relation to that, she must be so forgiving and reading it she is. I personally wouldnt recommend it unless you got it from a car boot for £2 then it may be worth reading, sorry Dawn but ive read much better

Top Gear for "children", 02 Dec 2008
I bought the Big Book of Top Gear 2009 but returned it immediately as it is far too childish. It is a bit like buying a comic book for kids. Very disappointing. I'm giving it one star just because it's nearly Christmas.

Good book to accompany the series, 29 Nov 2008
My brother (who's in his late 20's) saw this book and said he wanted it, so i first went out to check it out. I forgot to check this book out but looked at the annual, but found that to be aimed at children (incidently, i found the annual is very good and has lots to do in it). I then ordered it and after reading some bad reviews, i started to worry. Today, i went into a shop and saw one, and to settle my nerves, i had a look at it. I enjoyed what i read of it. For those who complain that there are things from the series in it, it is a companion to the series, so it will have things already seen, which is expected of any book which comes from any series (cookery, comedy to name a few). Secondly, for those who say it's daft, top gear is a daft series anyway, and found a lot of stuff that would be said by the guys. If it had been about cars, then it would have been boring. The magazine focuses on the actual cars so if that's what you're after, then this is not the book for you. If you want a laugh and are a fan of the series, then this is for. After all, if it hadn't been good enough, it wouldn't have carried the top gear label with it. I'm looking forward to receiving the book and know my brother will love it.

FUNNY, 19 Nov 2008
I don't even watch Top Gear that religiously but I bought the book for my brother for Christmas. I opened it to write a message in the cover and ended up reading most of it! I laughed out loud on so many occasions, it is SO funny!! As funny if not funnier than the show.

A 'Marmite' book, if ever there was one..., 17 Nov 2008
You have to be a fan of the show to even have a chance of liking it (too many in-jokes for anyone who doesn't watch it regularly) but even then it's still gonna divide readers into two groups, lovers and haters.

To love it you'll most likely have to be either a teenager or one of those spikey-haired Evo-with-big-exhaust owners (or wanabee owners) who really think all the lads' messing about on-screen is GENUINELY funny, rather than just very mildly amusing and worth putting up with in order to see the good bits of the show.

I am a die-hard fan of the show - have been for years - but honestly...
Another reviewer compared it to one of those kiddie 'Annuals' - I agree, I think what they've done here is create a niche product, an Annual for teenagers rather than kids. This is NOT the TV show in book form - the show is SO MUCH better.

Excellent value and fun!!!, 17 Nov 2008
This easy read is this years ultimate stocking filler. It will make you want to re-watch all of the Top Gear episodes, so would be the perfect accompaniment to a box set.
It is appropriate for any age, and you don't even have to be a fan of the show. Be prepared to experience `lol' moments, and don't take it too seriously. excellent value for money!!!


Brilliant and hilarious, 01 Dec 2008
What can I say?...brilliant!. I havent laughed so hard for years and really couldnt put this book down, in fact I finished it 12 hours after I began reading.In many ways I could relate to Pauls early years .I was , however, rather upset to find out that the book only goes up to his 18th year!. Come on Paul, we want more!!!!.

Excellent!, 22 Nov 2008
This was a fantastic read and one I managed to complete very quickly. I loved the early years of Paul's life in which he describes his mother and aunts. It reminded me so much of my long missed grandmother and the things that those women of a post war era got up to.
Absolutely loved the way the book was set out, it was coherent unlike some autobiographies and gave a great insight into Paul's life that is honest and forthright. The later years were interesting and again very honest. This man has certainly lead a very interesting life (and the book ends when he is eighteen)and I can't wait to read the next installment and find out how LIly Savage came to be and what other (mis)adventures Paul got up to in the proceeding years.
Highly recommended.

Paul O'Grady at his mothers knee., 11 Nov 2008
Have just finished reading this,what a fantastic read!! Very funny don't read this last thing at night as you won't be able to sleep for laughing! Buy it you won't regret it!

Wonderful book, 02 Nov 2008
Best book I've read this year. Very well written. Full of life and also very funny indeed. Don't like using cliches, but this is definitely an 'instant classic'.

Tears and laughter, 22 Oct 2008
You can actually hear Paul dictating the words. There are heart tugging moments but there are also laugh out loud moments from a giggle to a hearty belly laugh. The characters who populated Paul's world are larger than life and twice as funny. This is a book that is, to coin a word, unputdownable and one I shall keep. I can't wait for the next one.

Could have been so much more interesting, 30 Nov 2008
Even as a non-Englishman (I'm Dutch) I was well-acquainted with the talk show Parkinson. I watched it whenever I had a chance to catch it and I admired the way Michael Parkinson was able to get interesting stories out of (almost) every one of his guests. That, combined with positive reviews of this book convinced me to buy it. Boy, was I wrong...
Unlike one of the other reviewers I was not hoping for gossip, but I would have liked some more details about the assorted guests on the show, especially the Hollywood stars from the days of old. He does tell us something about them, but not very much. Instead he just goes on and on about bloody cricket, which I couldn't care less about.
If you like Michael Parkinson: watch the shows, don't read this book!

this book is so so, 26 Nov 2008
Parky is familiar to almost everybody, and especially on X Factor you can see him a lot, but his this book: My Autobiography, is not so interesting. I couldnt wait to grab one from the book shelf, but once I've read it for some pages, I found it disappoiting, coz it didnt tell much about himself and his story on television, which could interest people more, especially women.

Parky the Master, 14 Nov 2008
I have been a fan of Parky for over 30 years. I had the privelege of hearing him being interviewed at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, in conjunction with promoting his book. He held the audience enthralled as he regaled us with tales from his most varied and interesting life and career.
I could not wait to read my signed copy; It is a good read, however, was practically verbatim with his interview. I then watched him being interviewed by Mark Lawson on television, again, same old same old. I suppose I was disappointed that The Master does indeed possibly use a script.
I would agree with one of the other reviewers, a tad too much cricket, but all round, a heartwarming account by an unassuming,
gentleman.


Disappointed and upset, 13 Nov 2008
I couldn't wait to grab this book from the shelf because I have always loved Parky and have grown up watching him on the telly for the past 30 years.

However, I was disappointed with this autobiography because he wrote far too much about cricket and football which, as a woman, doesn't interest me at all. Also, his chat show 'revelations' were nothing of the sort - we've heard it all before!

Above all, there was a very distressing event which he, graphically, describes as having had in Africa when he briefly had a go at being a war correspondent. Frankly, I can't get the incident out of my head and, as a result, I will not be giving this book to my mother for Christmas! It's far too upsetting.

To my mind, this book will, probably, be bought and read by women rather than men. To that end, I wish our dearest Parky had realised that we were looking for light-heartedness and gossip rather than torture and sport before he published it!

sweetly timed shot to the boundary - excellent, 18 Oct 2008
To Parky I say, thanks for this timely autobiography, and many 'thanks for the memories' from the last 30 years. I enjoyed the book very much. It came across as very honest and entertaining.

Brilliant!!!!!, 12 Nov 2008
This book is fantastic, alan carr is hillarious!!! Love him hes one of the best comedians out. His book had me laughing constantly, read it in a weekend because I just didnt want to put the book down it was so funny. There are no sob stories just pure comedy, loved it! Would recommend it to anyone.

Wonderful book, 05 Nov 2008
From the front cover flap:

Hello and welcome to my life.

Oh, and what a life! From the grimness of doing data entry for Mr Dog to the dizzy heights of `The Friday Night Project' and performing for Her Majesty at the Royal Variety Performance. My life's been like a long flume, up and down with a couple of damp patches in the middle.

Take my hand, I want to lead you through my life. Within these pages you will come face to face with my parents, my dog Minstrel, my friends and a whole load of waifs and strays that have helped to make my journey that little bit more memorable. When you read Look Who It Is! I'm sure you'll agree - it's just been one thing after another.


I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to all. It follows Alan's life up until he accepts the offer to host The Friday Night Project with Justin Lee Colins. It is easy to read, interesting and engaging. He was very honest and I feel I know him now, and would like to meet him. It was very enlightening, I had thought Alan had been on the comedy scene for longer than he has. In fact, it was around 2005 he began to get famous.

Alan does not just talk about comedy though. He speaks of his family, including his famous, football manager Dad, Graham Carr and all his life experiences to date, which include university, travelling around the world and horrid temp jobs such as working in a call centre. There were several things in this book I could relate too, which made it even more enjoyable.

The book was not as funny as I was expecting it to be, however it did have me laughing and chuckling in places so I don't feel particularly let down.

This is a great book; an honest story where Alan says it like it is, and doesn't go for the sympathy vote. It is a bit cheeky that he has left the door open for a sequel in a few years, but hey, good for him.

An enjoyable book.

9/10


All hail Alan Carr.., 04 Nov 2008
This book is amazing, it's one of the funniest books I have ever read. It took me quite a long time to read this book.. not because it was boring, because it was so funny I had to put it down after every couple of pages to recompose myself.

I challenge anyone to read this book without laughing outloud!

Alan we love you!


A must - read, 01 Nov 2008
I first saw Alan Carr on "8 Out Of 10 Cats" and he instantly made an impression on me. I think the reason people have taken him to heart is he doesnt take himself or anything seriously with is brand of self mockery and honesty accounts of a so far interesting life.
Lots of other people and written how you can't help but laugh out loud and its true i had to put the book down for abour five minutes purely because i couldnt go on as i was laughing too much.
Highlights include him dressing in a giant pig costume and nearly killing the family dog, wearing his moms knee high boots to get an ice cream and an account of Shirley Bassey and a stage handler behind the scenes of the Royal Variety Performance.
If you love Alan Carr or are just looking for an uplifting and touching book buy this - you wont be dissapointed.

Honesty is the word, 31 Oct 2008
As soon as l saw this book l wanted it, l was not going to browse past past. So l bought it,
and it arrived the next day.
I dropped what l was reading (which is unusual for me), and got started.
It comes through from an early age Alan is very happy with himself, it's
others around him, who don't see it the same way.
Don't think this is a constant laugh out loud book, there are some very
funny incidents, but Alan talks very VERY frankly about being Alan Carr.
How he appeared 1st time on stage, and vowed never to return.
Alan doesn't moan at life he gets on with it. He makes it very clear that
money was so very tight, and even I thought that appearing at the
Edinburgh Festival you made money from it, and he lost.
He isn't ashamed of the jobs he did, and "The Phantom" at one job.
He talks of his highs and lows of being on stage. But he doesn't hit the big time straight away.
The book isn't full of antidote's its about his life, and how easy it was to eventually go on stage. I can
understand how sensitive he is about audiences, especially the christian one!!!
Alan comes over a very humble person, he is not one boast about all the people whom he has met,
he is overwhelmed when Robbie Williams comes to talk to him, same with Charlotte Church.
If you didn't know Alan Carr at the start of this book, you will hopefully
love him at the end.
The book ends as of where he is now, it leaves no strings dangling.
Thoroughly enjoyed it.

From Cover to Shining Cover, 02 Nov 2008
Having read the three and four star reviews, I had second-thoughts about purchasing 'Stephen Fry in America'. But after purchasing the book on the back of watchin three episodes of the TV programme I was compelled to write a review and it is one of 5 stars, as I'm sure you may be aware of! I can tell you my friends, that this well put together travelogue of a quintessentially Englishman's journey through and into the heart of America is almost definitely a book everyone who 'views' this item on amazon should purchase.
I don't want to slate the former reviews (apart from the 5 star one, great outlook ol' chum) because they're entitled to create their own opinions but they are wrong! To quote Mike D of the Beastie Boys, "I don't speak what I hear, I just say what I know" and this will form the basis of my own review, which I hope will prove informative and may tip the balance in favour of you buying this book. And I am an independent source, I'm not on Stephen Fry's payroll (NB* If he has one, can somebody please get in touch with me).
Firstly, the price of this book, as of 2/10/08 (or to be topical 10/02/08), on Amazon is £9, which is £1 cheaper than the low price of ASDA and Waterstones, is very reasonable especially seeing as it is in hardback and vibrant in colour, and perhaps more central, priceless with in the qualitative and quantitative information it is crammed with.
Fry starts off in Maine, following an interesting and humorous introduction. From the off, one can simply tell that this tale is going to be an insightful and intriguing journey through all 50 states. Fry does not fail to miss out the `little man' which he seems to stress as being so important in the fabric of the American global blanket.
I won't list every single tale from every single encounter in every single tale for I feel it is a story you need to embark upon yourself. But I can tell you he meets one very special Hollywood A-lister, and this isn't even the highlight of the saga!
This very factual and delightfully subjective account avoids falling into that massive cavity of the all-too common `America-bashing', something the man makes clear he is not a fan of. This book is not a fact-by-fact, number-by-number tale but rather an engrossing book which will see you turning the page faster and faster, your fingers will be moving faster than a New York Minute, or faster than a mid-western diner waitress swiftly topping up the `bottomless coffee' of her thirsty patrons.
Stephen Fry, the stand up for America guy! A warming and enlightening tale that is sure to warm up your autumn. Purchase in confidence of owning a great book that I'm sure you will be able to go back to again and again, until Fry embarks upon another such journey, perhaps of England!


A fine milshake of a book: smooth, creamy and satisfying, 28 Oct 2008
Facing the Introduction to this book is a picture of a satisfied "Steve" (Fry's American alter-ego) enjoying a strawberry milkshake in a typical American diner. This sets the tone for what follows.

Fry's Great American Journey is both idiosyncratic and insightful. He present's the country as he finds it: take it or leave it. You be the judge. No doubt some will be disappointed by what is not included, but that is part of the nature of the USA that Fry tries to convey: it is too large and eclectic for anyone (even natives like myself) to get to know all it.

The United States is a giant grab-bag of a nation. Everytime you dip into it you pull out something different: strange, new, old, delightful, appaling or simply intriguing. You cannot stereotype a nation of 300 million people descended from the scrambled cultures of the world and spread over thousands of miles of varying terrain. To his great credit "Stephen" Fry does not attempt to do so. Here is one celebrity travelogue worth reading.

Fascinating, 16 Oct 2008
This is a very positive and upbeat view of America, showing the country at its best.
It would be lovely to see Mr Fry doing a similarly enthusiastic tour of Britain's counties. Come on the BBC, let's see that series next!

Great companion to the TV series, 14 Oct 2008
I loved the first episode of the TV series, but Stephen whipped through the various states with an almost unseemly haste. However, this book more than fills in those gaps - an essential companion.

Room for improvement, 07 Oct 2008
So I found myself in Terminal 5 at Heathrow last week and in the process of getting psyched up for my week long European tour of my companies offices I decided to take Mr Frys book with me as a companion.

And, well, its a rather bitter sweet sort of read, leaving you simultaneously amused but short changed.

You see, the author delights you with a wonderful 7 page prologue, dripping in his trademark whit and informed conversation and you're set for the great mans perspective on all things american.

Except its exactly that same dialogue that is actually missing from this book.

What you get is 5 or 6 pages per state, usually with Mr Fry having some form of meal with "typical" residents of the State in question. It's more Dorling Kindersley visits America than Stephen Fry in America. Delaware barely gets a mention at all (6 paragraphs I think) and in what I suspect is a conspiracy to make you watch the accompanying documentary, the lack of substance makes you think all the best bits have been left out of the book.

This is a very well written book, but there's little of Mr Fry in here. I mean clearly its him, he's in all the pictures, but you dont get the feel that he's the one taking you on the journey. This is a man who could make an entire series about Washington DC alone, it would be revealing and insightful and informative and leave no stone unturned. But that's not the treatment DC gets in this book, so I was feeling a little, cheated.

So my conclusion. This is a well written book, with beautiful photography but I suspect the BBC has restricted the content to make sure we watch the TV show. And for that, I mark this down. There's just not enough room in here for Mr Fry to stretch his wings and thats a damn shame.

Stephen Fry in America

What a fantastic book to read, 29 Nov 2008
When i first saw the title of her book i was wondering what this book was going to be about. But how wrong i was, the book was honest and to the point. Her revelations about her past really touched me and brought a few tears to my eyes. You clearly see how important her family are to her. Highly recommended!!!

I love this book, 25 Nov 2008
Dawn French is familiar to many people. She is well known for her comedy and for being half of French and Saunders, and as the wonderful Vicar of Dibley.

I personally love reading autobiography, coz I could learn a lot from their life experience. Dear Fatty is mostly about her early days in the Comic Strip, the films she took part in, as well as her recent roles. It is written as a series of letters, to diffrent people, and a large proportion of these are written to her father, who has much affect on her.
It is emotional.

All in all, I recommend this book to everybody, especially who are the fans of Dawn French.

Amazing person we love you, 25 Nov 2008
Dawn, anything you write we will love, because you are just an amazing person But this book is a must read for everyone!


Jennyxx

Fat...yes...but funny too!, 24 Nov 2008
I love books that are honest and get to the point. This, most readable of books, manages to do just that. Written in an amusing, yet clever style, the reader is left both entertained and enlightened by a book written by a 'celebrity' - but one that still has the common touch. I certainly cannot imagine the likes of Paris Hilton or Wayne Rooney producing a book so full of vivid prose and amusing stories. If you like books that are honest and funny I also recommend the book: One Love Two Colours: The unlikely marriage of a Punk Rocker & his African Queen, by Margaret Oshindele-Smith - a book (from a complete non-celebrity) that merges humour and wit via the true story of a Nigerian woman's experience of living in England.

Bit Disappointed, 23 Nov 2008
I am an avid reader I love autobiographies and although some of it was interesting, I was disappointed in some of it, and she writes letters to family members rather than a flowing biography. Only one letter to her husband who famously cheated on her, but theres no real relation to that, she must be so forgiving and reading it she is. I personally wouldnt recommend it unless you got it from a car boot for £2 then it may be worth reading, sorry Dawn but ive read much better

Top Gear for "children", 02 Dec 2008
I bought the Big Book of Top Gear 2009 but returned it immediately as it is far too childish. It is a bit like buying a comic book for kids. Very disappointing. I'm giving it one star just because it's nearly Christmas.

Good book to accompany the series, 29 Nov 2008
My brother (who's in his late 20's) saw this book and said he wanted it, so i first went out to check it out. I forgot to check this book out but looked at the annual, but found that to be aimed at children (incidently, i found the annual is very good and has lots to do in it). I then ordered it and after reading some bad reviews, i started to worry. Today, i went into a shop and saw one, and to settle my nerves, i had a look at it. I enjoyed what i read of it. For those who complain that there are things from the series in it, it is a companion to the series, so it will have things already seen, which is expected of any book which comes from any series (cookery, comedy to name a few). Secondly, for those who say it's daft, top gear is a daft series anyway, and found a lot of stuff that would be said by the guys. If it had been about cars, then it would have been boring. The magazine focuses on the actual cars so if that's what you're after, then this is not the book for you. If you want a laugh and are a fan of the series, then this is for. After all, if it hadn't been good enough, it wouldn't have carried the top gear label with it. I'm looking forward to receiving the book and know my brother will love it.

FUNNY, 19 Nov 2008
I don't even watch Top Gear that religiously but I bought the book for my brother for Christmas. I opened it to write a message in the cover and ended up reading most of it! I laughed out loud on so many occasions, it is SO funny!! As funny if not funnier than the show.

A 'Marmite' book, if ever there was one..., 17 Nov 2008
You have to be a fan of the show to even have a chance of liking it (too many in-jokes for anyone who doesn't watch it regularly) but even then it's still gonna divide readers into two groups, lovers and haters.

To love it you'll most likely have to be either a teenager or one of those spikey-haired Evo-with-big-exhaust owners (or wanabee owners) who really think all the lads' messing about on-screen is GENUINELY funny, rather than just very mildly amusing and worth putting up with in order to see the good bits of the show.

I am a die-hard fan of the show - have been for years - but honestly...
Another reviewer compared it to one of those kiddie 'Annuals' - I agree, I think what they've done here is create a niche product, an Annual for teenagers rather than kids. This is NOT the TV show in book form - the show is SO MUCH better.

Excellent value and fun!!!, 17 Nov 2008
This easy read is this years ultimate stocking filler. It will make you want to re-watch all of the Top Gear episodes, so would be the perfect accompaniment to a box set.
It is appropriate for any age, and you don't even have to be a fan of the show. Be prepared to experience `lol' moments, and don't take it too seriously. excellent value for money!!!


Brilliant and hilarious, 01 Dec 2008
What can I say?...brilliant!. I havent laughed so hard for years and really couldnt put this book down, in fact I finished it 12 hours after I began reading.In many ways I could relate to Pauls early years .I was , however, rather upset to find out that the book only goes up to his 18th year!. Come on Paul, we want more!!!!.

Excellent!, 22 Nov 2008
This was a fantastic read and one I managed to complete very quickly. I loved the early years of Paul's life in which he describes his mother and aunts. It reminded me so much of my long missed grandmother and the things that those women of a post war era got up to.
Absolutely loved the way the book was set out, it was coherent unlike some autobiographies and gave a great insight into Paul's life that is honest and forthright. The later years were interesting and again very honest. This man has certainly lead a very interesting life (and the book ends when he is eighteen)and I can't wait to read the next installment and find out how LIly Savage came to be and what other (mis)adventures Paul got up to in the proceeding years.
Highly recommended.

Paul O'Grady at his mothers knee., 11 Nov 2008
Have just finished reading this,what a fantastic read!! Very funny don't read this last thing at night as you won't be able to sleep for laughing! Buy it you won't regret it!

Wonderful book, 02 Nov 2008
Best book I've read this year. Very well written. Full of life and also very funny indeed. Don't like using cliches, but this is definitely an 'instant classic'.

Tears and laughter, 22 Oct 2008
You can actually hear Paul dictating the words. There are heart tugging moments but there are also laugh out loud moments from a giggle to a hearty belly laugh. The characters who populated Paul's world are larger than life and twice as funny. This is a book that is, to coin a word, unputdownable and one I shall keep. I can't wait for the next one.

Could have been so much more interesting, 30 Nov 2008
Even as a non-Englishman (I'm Dutch) I was well-acquainted with the talk show Parkinson. I watched it whenever I had a chance to catch it and I admired the way Michael Parkinson was able to get interesting stories out of (almost) every one of his guests. That, combined with positive reviews of this book convinced me to buy it. Boy, was I wrong...
Unlike one of the other reviewers I was not hoping for gossip, but I would have liked some more details about the assorted guests on the show, especially the Hollywood stars from the days of old. He does tell us something about them, but not very much. Instead he just goes on and on about bloody cricket, which I couldn't care less about.
If you like Michael Parkinson: watch the shows, don't read this book!

this book is so so, 26 Nov 2008
Parky is familiar to almost everybody, and especially on X Factor you can see him a lot, but his this book: My Autobiography, is not so interesting. I couldnt wait to grab one from the book shelf, but once I've read it for some pages, I found it disappoiting, coz it didnt tell much about himself and his story on television, which could interest people more, especially women.

Parky the Master, 14 Nov 2008
I have been a fan of Parky for over 30 years. I had the privelege of hearing him being interviewed at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, in conjunction with promoting his book. He held the audience enthralled as he regaled us with tales from his most varied and interesting life and career.
I could not wait to read my signed copy; It is a good read, however, was practically verbatim with his interview. I then watched him being interviewed by Mark Lawson on television, again, same old same old. I suppose I was disappointed that The Master does indeed possibly use a script.
I would agree with one of the other reviewers, a tad too much cricket, but all round, a heartwarming account by an unassuming,
gentleman.


Disappointed and upset, 13 Nov 2008
I couldn't wait to grab this book from the shelf because I have always loved Parky and have grown up watching him on the telly for the past 30 years.

However, I was disappointed with this autobiography because he wrote far too much about cricket and football which, as a woman, doesn't interest me at all. Also, his chat show 'revelations' were nothing of the sort - we've heard it all before!

Above all, there was a very distressing event which he, graphically, describes as having had in Africa when he briefly had a go at being a war correspondent. Frankly, I can't get the incident out of my head and, as a result, I will not be giving this book to my mother for Christmas! It's far too upsetting.

To my mind, this book will, probably, be bought and read by women rather than men. To that end, I wish our dearest Parky had realised that we were looking for light-heartedness and gossip rather than torture and sport before he published it!

sweetly timed shot to the boundary - excellent, 18 Oct 2008
To Parky I say, thanks for this timely autobiography, and many 'thanks for the memories' from the last 30 years. I enjoyed the book very much. It came across as very honest and entertaining.

Brilliant!!!!!, 12 Nov 2008
This book is fantastic, alan carr is hillarious!!! Love him hes one of the best comedians out. His book had me laughing constantly, read it in a weekend because I just didnt want to put the book down it was so funny. There are no sob stories just pure comedy, loved it! Would recommend it to anyone.

Wonderful book, 05 Nov 2008
From the front cover flap:

Hello and welcome to my life.

Oh, and what a life! From the grimness of doing data entry for Mr Dog to the dizzy heights of `The Friday Night Project' and performing for Her Majesty at the Royal Variety Performance. My life's been like a long flume, up and down with a couple of damp patches in the middle.

Take my hand, I want to lead you through my life. Within these pages you will come face to face with my parents, my dog Minstrel, my friends and a whole load of waifs and strays that have helped to make my journey that little bit more memorable. When you read Look Who It Is! I'm sure you'll agree - it's just been one thing after another.


I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to all. It follows Alan's life up until he accepts the offer to host The Friday Night Project with Justin Lee Colins. It is easy to read, interesting and engaging. He was very honest and I feel I know him now, and would like to meet him. It was very enlightening, I had thought Alan had been on the comedy scene for longer than he has. In fact, it was around 2005 he began to get famous.

Alan does not just talk about comedy though. He speaks of his family, including his famous, football manager Dad, Graham Carr and all his life experiences to date, which include university, travelling around the world and horrid temp jobs such as working in a call centre. There were several things in this book I could relate too, which made it even more enjoyable.

The book was not as funny as I was expecting it to be, however it did have me laughing and chuckling in places so I don't feel particularly let down.

This is a great book; an honest story where Alan says it like it is, and doesn't go for the sympathy vote. It is a bit cheeky that he has left the door open for a sequel in a few years, but hey, good for him.

An enjoyable book.

9/10


All hail Alan Carr.., 04 Nov 2008
This book is amazing, it's one of the funniest books I have ever read. It took me quite a long time to read this book.. not because it was boring, because it was so funny I had to put it down after every couple of pages to recompose myself.

I challenge anyone to read this book without laughing outloud!

Alan we love you!


A must - read, 01 Nov 2008
I first saw Alan Carr on "8 Out Of 10 Cats" and he instantly made an impression on me. I think the reason people have taken him to heart is he doesnt take himself or anything seriously with is brand of self mockery and honesty accounts of a so far interesting life.
Lots of other people and written how you can't help but laugh out loud and its true i had to put the book down for abour five minutes purely because i couldnt go on as i was laughing too much.
Highlights include him dressing in a giant pig costume and nearly killing the family dog, wearing his moms knee high boots to get an ice cream and an account of Shirley Bassey and a stage handler behind the scenes of the Royal Variety Performance.
If you love Alan Carr or are just looking for an uplifting and touching book buy this - you wont be dissapointed.

Honesty is the word, 31 Oct 2008
As soon as l saw this book l wanted it, l was not going to browse past past. So l bought it,
and it arrived the next day.
I dropped what l was reading (which is unusual for me), and got started.
It comes through from an early age Alan is very happy with himself, it's
others around him, who don't see it the same way.
Don't think this is a constant laugh out loud book, there are some very
funny incidents, but Alan talks very VERY frankly about being Alan Carr.
How he appeared 1st time on stage, and vowed never to return.
Alan doesn't moan at life he gets on with it. He makes it very clear that
money was so very tight, and even I thought that appearing at the
Edinburgh Festival you made money from it, and he lost.
He isn't ashamed of the jobs he did, and "The Phantom" at one job.
He talks of his highs and lows of being on stage. But he doesn't hit the big time straight away.
The book isn't full of antidote's its about his life, and how easy it was to eventually go on stage. I can
understand how sensitive he is about audiences, especially the christian one!!!
Alan comes over a very humble person, he is not one boast about all the people whom he has met,
he is overwhelmed when Robbie Williams comes to talk to him, same with Charlotte Church.
If you didn't know Alan Carr at the start of this book, you will hopefully
love him at the end.
The book ends as of where he is now, it leaves no strings dangling.
Thoroughly enjoyed it.

From Cover to Shining Cover, 02 Nov 2008
Having read the three and four star reviews, I had second-thoughts about purchasing 'Stephen Fry in America'. But after purchasing the book on the back of watchin three episodes of the TV programme I was compelled to write a review and it is one of 5 stars, as I'm sure you may be aware of! I can tell you my friends, that this well put together travelogue of a quintessentially Englishman's journey through and into the heart of America is almost definitely a book everyone who 'views' this item on amazon should purchase.
I don't want to slate the former reviews (apart from the 5 star one, great outlook ol' chum) because they're entitled to create their own opinions but they are wrong! To quote Mike D of the Beastie Boys, "I don't speak what I hear, I just say what I know" and this will form the basis of my own review, which I hope will prove informative and may tip the balance in favour of you buying this book. And I am an independent source, I'm not on Stephen Fry's payroll (NB* If he has one, can somebody please get in touch with me).
Firstly, the price of this book, as of 2/10/08 (or to be topical 10/02/08), on Amazon is £9, which is £1 cheaper than the low price of ASDA and Waterstones, is very reasonable especially seeing as it is in hardback and vibrant in colour, and perhaps more central, priceless with in the qualitative and quantitative information it is crammed with.
Fry starts off in Maine, following an interesting and humorous introduction. From the off, one can simply tell that this tale is going to be an insightful and intriguing journey through all 50 states. Fry does not fail to miss out the `little man' which he seems to stress as being so important in the fabric of the American global blanket.
I won't list every single tale from every single encounter in every single tale for I feel it is a story you need to embark upon yourself. But I can tell you he meets one very special Hollywood A-lister, and this isn't even the highlight of the saga!
This very factual and delightfully subjective account avoids falling into that massive cavity of the all-too common `America-bashing', something the man makes clear he is not a fan of. This book is not a fact-by-fact, number-by-number tale but rather an engrossing book which will see you turning the page faster and faster, your fingers will be moving faster than a New York Minute, or faster than a mid-western diner waitress swiftly topping up the `bottomless coffee' of her thirsty patrons.
Stephen Fry, the stand up for America guy! A warming and enlightening tale that is sure to warm up your autumn. Purchase in confidence of owning a great book that I'm sure you will be able to go back to again and again, until Fry embarks upon another such journey, perhaps of England!


A fine milshake of a book: smooth, creamy and satisfying, 28 Oct 2008
Facing the Introduction to this book is a picture of a satisfied "Steve" (Fry's American alter-ego) enjoying a strawberry milkshake in a typical American diner. This sets the tone for what follows.

Fry's Great American Journey is both idiosyncratic and insightful. He present's the country as he finds it: take it or leave it. You be the judge. No doubt some will be disappointed by what is not included, but that is part of the nature of the USA that Fry tries to convey: it is too large and eclectic for anyone (even natives like myself) to get to know all it.

The United States is a giant grab-bag of a nation. Everytime you dip into it you pull out something different: strange, new, old, delightful, appaling or simply intriguing. You cannot stereotype a nation of 300 million people descended from the scrambled cultures of the world and spread over thousands of miles of varying terrain. To his great credit "Stephen" Fry does not attempt to do so. Here is one celebrity travelogue worth reading.

Fascinating, 16 Oct 2008
This is a very positive and upbeat view of America, showing the country at its best.
It would be lovely to see Mr Fry doing a similarly enthusiastic tour of Britain's counties. Come on the BBC, let's see that series next!

Great companion to the TV series, 14 Oct 2008
I loved the first episode of the TV series, but Stephen whipped through the various states with an almost unseemly haste. However, this book more than fills in those gaps - an essential companion.

Room for improvement, 07 Oct 2008
So I found myself in Terminal 5 at Heathrow last week and in the process of getting psyched up for my week long European tour of my companies offices I decided to take Mr Frys book with me as a companion.

And, well, its a rather bitter sweet sort of read, leaving you simultaneously amused but short changed.

You see, the author delights you with a wonderful 7 page prologue, dripping in his trademark whit and informed conversation and you're set for the great mans perspective on all things american.

Except its exactly that same dialogue that is actually missing from this book.

What you get is 5 or 6 pages per state, usually with Mr Fry having some form of meal with "typical" residents of the State in question. It's more Dorling Kindersley visits America than Stephen Fry in America. Delaware barely gets a mention at all (6 paragraphs I think) and in what I suspect is a conspiracy to make you watch the accompanying documentary, the lack of substance makes you think all the best bits have been left out of the book.

This is a very well written book, but there's little of Mr Fry in here. I mean clearly its him, he's in all the pictures, but you dont get the feel that he's the one taking you on the journey. This is a man who could make an entire series about Washington DC alone, it would be revealing and insightful and informative and leave no stone unturned. But that's not the treatment DC gets in this book, so I was feeling a little, cheated.

So my conclusion. This is a well written book, with beautiful photography but I suspect the BBC has restricted the content to make sure we watch the TV show. And for that, I mark this down. There's just not enough room in here for Mr Fry to stretch his wings and thats a damn shame.

Stephen Fry in America

A Stictly Girls Christmas Wish, 21 Oct 2008
Bright, Glossy with gossipy text and great photography. Flavia demonstrates many of the dances so you can have a go yourself. There is a quiz and judging page for you to mark. This is the perfect Christmas gift for my 9 year old grandaughter....... and I can see the whole family pressed into taking part on Christmas day!