An Overwhelming Collection of Lives, 19 Aug 2008
These obituaries of the ladies who defied convention in the last century are truly revelations. Most of the women, with a few notable exceptions, were previously unknown to me, and I ended up filling my bedside notebook with names to research further. Others, like Patricia Highsmith, Barbara Cartland and Eva Gabor, were more familiar, but even they had secrets to divulge in these last big stories of their lives.

The only problem I had with Chin Up, Girls is that reading it in one go, as I did, the people started to run together and I lost track of who was who. This is a book meant to be savored over a long period of time, but don't be stupid like I was; get a copy to keep rather than borrowing it from the library.

A superb and varied collection of women's lives, 19 Sep 2005
This beautifully and thoughtfully edited selection of women's lives is the perfect gift for any women - or man. There are very few well-known women in the collection which makes for even more fascinating reading - from eccentric aristoctracy to brave and fearless women during war to ordinary people who end up having extraordinary lives.
Every obituary is well written and many are extremely amusing pieces of writing, regardless of the subject. A thoroughly good present in the run up to Christmas.

A Wonderful Book, 15 Sep 2005
A compendium of heroic, ground-breaking or occasionally downright barking mad women from the obituaries files of the daily telegraph. What's great about this book is that these are not just famous lives - most of the women in it I had never heard of and was extremely glad to be introduced to. Some of their stories made me laugh aloud while others moved me to tears. An amusing, exciting, uplifting tribute to womanhood. A great book.

An Overwhelming Collection of Lives, 19 Aug 2008
These obituaries of the ladies who defied convention in the last century are truly revelations. Most of the women, with a few notable exceptions, were previously unknown to me, and I ended up filling my bedside notebook with names to research further. Others, like Patricia Highsmith, Barbara Cartland and Eva Gabor, were more familiar, but even they had secrets to divulge in these last big stories of their lives.

The only problem I had with Chin Up, Girls is that reading it in one go, as I did, the people started to run together and I lost track of who was who. This is a book meant to be savored over a long period of time, but don't be stupid like I was; get a copy to keep rather than borrowing it from the library.

A superb and varied collection of women's lives, 19 Sep 2005
This beautifully and thoughtfully edited selection of women's lives is the perfect gift for any women - or man. There are very few well-known women in the collection which makes for even more fascinating reading - from eccentric aristoctracy to brave and fearless women during war to ordinary people who end up having extraordinary lives.
Every obituary is well written and many are extremely amusing pieces of writing, regardless of the subject. A thoroughly good present in the run up to Christmas.

A Wonderful Book, 15 Sep 2005
A compendium of heroic, ground-breaking or occasionally downright barking mad women from the obituaries files of the daily telegraph. What's great about this book is that these are not just famous lives - most of the women in it I had never heard of and was extremely glad to be introduced to. Some of their stories made me laugh aloud while others moved me to tears. An amusing, exciting, uplifting tribute to womanhood. A great book.

The best so far., 01 Sep 2007
As a shipwreck historian, I have often encountered a number of the names contained within this book. As an occasional author of a "letter to the Editor," I have also spoken with the David Twiston Davies on more than one occasion when he was Letters Editor for the Daily Telegraph. Somehow, a combination of these two factors has brought out the very best (for me at least) in this series of books. Perhaps it's just that Naval History is my subject and this book is full of those who made it.

Obituaries are, by there very nature, a brief means of celebrating in words the lives of those who, for whatever reason, are deemed important enough to be included. Some enjoyed long and fruitful lives, others not. Some, such as Admiral of the Fleet Lord Lewin of Greenwich (probably one of the greatest men of our time), achieved the highest possible office and rank. Others, such as Bill Sparks DSM (last of the Cockleshell heroes), did not. In this book they are given equal billing and quite rightly so.

Amongst "some" of the other names which sprang from the page as I scanned the contents list were; Rear Admiral Godfrey Place VC (commander of X-Craft 7 - a miniature submarine in which he mad a successful attack of the 41,000 ton German battleship Tirpitz in Kaafjord in 1943, an attack from which the ship never recovered) and, perhaps somewhat surprisingly, Flotillenadmiral Otto Kretschmer who, as commander of U 99 (the Golden Horseshoe) went on to become the most successful U Boat Ace of World War Two.

I was aware that Kretschmer was captured and became a POW in Ontario (during which time he was even promoted because of the intelligence he was sending back to Germany!). I did not know, however, that he joined the post-war German Navy (Bundesmarine) in which he went on to complete a full career - eventually reaching the rank of Flotillenadmiral which equates to our Commodore. A small number of American and Russian personalities are also included. It was most interesting see which had been of sufficient interest to a British newspaper.

Altogether, 106 obituaries from the past 20 years as published in the Daily Telegraph. If you missed any of them first time around, then this is your chance to find them again. One thing is for certain though, you cannot possibly avoid reading the next one - and then the next.

Several annoying typographical errors (mostly missing spaces between two words) but these will not spoil your enjoyment of an otherwise outstanding book.

NM

An Overwhelming Collection of Lives, 19 Aug 2008
These obituaries of the ladies who defied convention in the last century are truly revelations. Most of the women, with a few notable exceptions, were previously unknown to me, and I ended up filling my bedside notebook with names to research further. Others, like Patricia Highsmith, Barbara Cartland and Eva Gabor, were more familiar, but even they had secrets to divulge in these last big stories of their lives.

The only problem I had with Chin Up, Girls is that reading it in one go, as I did, the people started to run together and I lost track of who was who. This is a book meant to be savored over a long period of time, but don't be stupid like I was; get a copy to keep rather than borrowing it from the library.

A superb and varied collection of women's lives, 19 Sep 2005
This beautifully and thoughtfully edited selection of women's lives is the perfect gift for any women - or man. There are very few well-known women in the collection which makes for even more fascinating reading - from eccentric aristoctracy to brave and fearless women during war to ordinary people who end up having extraordinary lives.
Every obituary is well written and many are extremely amusing pieces of writing, regardless of the subject. A thoroughly good present in the run up to Christmas.

A Wonderful Book, 15 Sep 2005
A compendium of heroic, ground-breaking or occasionally downright barking mad women from the obituaries files of the daily telegraph. What's great about this book is that these are not just famous lives - most of the women in it I had never heard of and was extremely glad to be introduced to. Some of their stories made me laugh aloud while others moved me to tears. An amusing, exciting, uplifting tribute to womanhood. A great book.

The best so far., 01 Sep 2007
As a shipwreck historian, I have often encountered a number of the names contained within this book. As an occasional author of a "letter to the Editor," I have also spoken with the David Twiston Davies on more than one occasion when he was Letters Editor for the Daily Telegraph. Somehow, a combination of these two factors has brought out the very best (for me at least) in this series of books. Perhaps it's just that Naval History is my subject and this book is full of those who made it.

Obituaries are, by there very nature, a brief means of celebrating in words the lives of those who, for whatever reason, are deemed important enough to be included. Some enjoyed long and fruitful lives, others not. Some, such as Admiral of the Fleet Lord Lewin of Greenwich (probably one of the greatest men of our time), achieved the highest possible office and rank. Others, such as Bill Sparks DSM (last of the Cockleshell heroes), did not. In this book they are given equal billing and quite rightly so.

Amongst "some" of the other names which sprang from the page as I scanned the contents list were; Rear Admiral Godfrey Place VC (commander of X-Craft 7 - a miniature submarine in which he mad a successful attack of the 41,000 ton German battleship Tirpitz in Kaafjord in 1943, an attack from which the ship never recovered) and, perhaps somewhat surprisingly, Flotillenadmiral Otto Kretschmer who, as commander of U 99 (the Golden Horseshoe) went on to become the most successful U Boat Ace of World War Two.

I was aware that Kretschmer was captured and became a POW in Ontario (during which time he was even promoted because of the intelligence he was sending back to Germany!). I did not know, however, that he joined the post-war German Navy (Bundesmarine) in which he went on to complete a full career - eventually reaching the rank of Flotillenadmiral which equates to our Commodore. A small number of American and Russian personalities are also included. It was most interesting see which had been of sufficient interest to a British newspaper.

Altogether, 106 obituaries from the past 20 years as published in the Daily Telegraph. If you missed any of them first time around, then this is your chance to find them again. One thing is for certain though, you cannot possibly avoid reading the next one - and then the next.

Several annoying typographical errors (mostly missing spaces between two words) but these will not spoil your enjoyment of an otherwise outstanding book.

NM



Excellent book!, 13 Dec 2007
This is an excellent book, full of fascinating tales of famous and less well-known figures with links (somewhat tenous in a few cases) to the game of football.

Written in a very erudite, entertaining way, this book is a goldmine for lovers of trivia, quizzes, etc, bringing to a light a host of often forgotten facts and stories from bygone days. Reading it is a fine way to spend time on a cold winter's night.

I would recommend it as the ideal Christmas present for the football fan(s) in your family.

An Overwhelming Collection of Lives, 19 Aug 2008
These obituaries of the ladies who defied convention in the last century are truly revelations. Most of the women, with a few notable exceptions, were previously unknown to me, and I ended up filling my bedside notebook with names to research further. Others, like Patricia Highsmith, Barbara Cartland and Eva Gabor, were more familiar, but even they had secrets to divulge in these last big stories of their lives.

The only problem I had with Chin Up, Girls is that reading it in one go, as I did, the people started to run together and I lost track of who was who. This is a book meant to be savored over a long period of time, but don't be stupid like I was; get a copy to keep rather than borrowing it from the library.

A superb and varied collection of women's lives, 19 Sep 2005
This beautifully and thoughtfully edited selection of women's lives is the perfect gift for any women - or man. There are very few well-known women in the collection which makes for even more fascinating reading - from eccentric aristoctracy to brave and fearless women during war to ordinary people who end up having extraordinary lives.
Every obituary is well written and many are extremely amusing pieces of writing, regardless of the subject. A thoroughly good present in the run up to Christmas.

A Wonderful Book, 15 Sep 2005
A compendium of heroic, ground-breaking or occasionally downright barking mad women from the obituaries files of the daily telegraph. What's great about this book is that these are not just famous lives - most of the women in it I had never heard of and was extremely glad to be introduced to. Some of their stories made me laugh aloud while others moved me to tears. An amusing, exciting, uplifting tribute to womanhood. A great book.

The best so far., 01 Sep 2007
As a shipwreck historian, I have often encountered a number of the names contained within this book. As an occasional author of a "letter to the Editor," I have also spoken with the David Twiston Davies on more than one occasion when he was Letters Editor for the Daily Telegraph. Somehow, a combination of these two factors has brought out the very best (for me at least) in this series of books. Perhaps it's just that Naval History is my subject and this book is full of those who made it.

Obituaries are, by there very nature, a brief means of celebrating in words the lives of those who, for whatever reason, are deemed important enough to be included. Some enjoyed long and fruitful lives, others not. Some, such as Admiral of the Fleet Lord Lewin of Greenwich (probably one of the greatest men of our time), achieved the highest possible office and rank. Others, such as Bill Sparks DSM (last of the Cockleshell heroes), did not. In this book they are given equal billing and quite rightly so.

Amongst "some" of the other names which sprang from the page as I scanned the contents list were; Rear Admiral Godfrey Place VC (commander of X-Craft 7 - a miniature submarine in which he mad a successful attack of the 41,000 ton German battleship Tirpitz in Kaafjord in 1943, an attack from which the ship never recovered) and, perhaps somewhat surprisingly, Flotillenadmiral Otto Kretschmer who, as commander of U 99 (the Golden Horseshoe) went on to become the most successful U Boat Ace of World War Two.

I was aware that Kretschmer was captured and became a POW in Ontario (during which time he was even promoted because of the intelligence he was sending back to Germany!). I did not know, however, that he joined the post-war German Navy (Bundesmarine) in which he went on to complete a full career - eventually reaching the rank of Flotillenadmiral which equates to our Commodore. A small number of American and Russian personalities are also included. It was most interesting see which had been of sufficient interest to a British newspaper.

Altogether, 106 obituaries from the past 20 years as published in the Daily Telegraph. If you missed any of them first time around, then this is your chance to find them again. One thing is for certain though, you cannot possibly avoid reading the next one - and then the next.

Several annoying typographical errors (mostly missing spaces between two words) but these will not spoil your enjoyment of an otherwise outstanding book.

NM



Excellent book!, 13 Dec 2007
This is an excellent book, full of fascinating tales of famous and less well-known figures with links (somewhat tenous in a few cases) to the game of football.

Written in a very erudite, entertaining way, this book is a goldmine for lovers of trivia, quizzes, etc, bringing to a light a host of often forgotten facts and stories from bygone days. Reading it is a fine way to spend time on a cold winter's night.

I would recommend it as the ideal Christmas present for the football fan(s) in your family.

A Dodo is not just for Christmas, 15 Nov 2007
This is a clever conceit a concept that will run and run. The title invites the browser to pause and pick up. Initially she/he may be disappointed because the obituaries relate to people, organisations, concepts, myths and pretensions that in most cases are still, sadly with us. The writing is excellent and although on occasion innocent parties, places and people are caught by the follow through of the broadsword for the most part the accuracy of the rapier thrusts and cutlass slashes deftly dispose of the unfit for existence. It gives those of us who have neither the time nor skill the satisfaction of knowing that someone is doing a good job for us and makes us laugh at the same time. Occasionally the lame duck being harried excites a lip curl of distaste rather than the effect looked for by the writers but there are not many instances of this. This title could well be the `Giles Annual' of the future but should not be confined to Christmas purchase.


Dead Funny, 14 Nov 2007
A satirical look at the world around us that made me howl with laughter with obituaries for the things that I hadn't realised had died or had long wished would soon shuffle off this mortal coil. The obits cover everything from domestic and international politics, to science and entertainment. I was particularly taken with the death of (fictional) George Bush, and the death of gravity after the opening of the Grand Canyon Skywalk surprised me but amused me too (Buzz Aldrin: "In your face, Neil Armstrong!") to name but just a few. A very enlightening and entertaining read and also a perfect Christmas present too.

Satire isn't dead, 14 Nov 2007
A real gem of a book that's breathed new life into the art of satire by larking about with obituaries. One of the few books I've read recently that has made me laugh tea out of my nose - the Da Vinci Code court case obituary is a particular favourite, although the Death of the Fictional Dubya Bush is also up there. A perfect Christmas gift for friends and family.

Twinkle, twinkle little satire, 24 Sep 2007
This book came as a bit of a surprise. I'd started to believe that no-one was producing proper satire these days but this is the real deal: not only did it make me laugh it also made me think. Sure there are a few easy targets (Tim Henman, Britney Spears) but they still manage to be funny, and this book isn't afraid to have a go at tougher stuff (religious schools, the death of freedom, Lord Reith's legacy)too

laugh out loud, 17 Sep 2007
I know it's a cliche but this book has literally made me laugh out loud. It's an irreverant, inventive and refreshing review of our times: politics; celebrity; trends; the lot. The entry about Britney Spears' Hair is a classic but my favourite is the faux-obituary of Jeremy Clarkson. It's quite a good stocking filler Christmas present I would have thought. I will be buying it for those 'difficult to buy for' men in my family.

An Overwhelming Collection of Lives, 19 Aug 2008
These obituaries of the ladies who defied convention in the last century are truly revelations. Most of the women, with a few notable exceptions, were previously unknown to me, and I ended up filling my bedside notebook with names to research further. Others, like Patricia Highsmith, Barbara Cartland and Eva Gabor, were more familiar, but even they had secrets to divulge in these last big stories of their lives.

The only problem I had with Chin Up, Girls is that reading it in one go, as I did, the people started to run together and I lost track of who was who. This is a book meant to be savored over a long period of time, but don't be stupid like I was; get a copy to keep rather than borrowing it from the library.

A superb and varied collection of women's lives, 19 Sep 2005
This beautifully and thoughtfully edited selection of women's lives is the perfect gift for any women - or man. There are very few well-known women in the collection which makes for even more fascinating reading - from eccentric aristoctracy to brave and fearless women during war to ordinary people who end up having extraordinary lives.
Every obituary is well written and many are extremely amusing pieces of writing, regardless of the subject. A thoroughly good present in the run up to Christmas.

A Wonderful Book, 15 Sep 2005
A compendium of heroic, ground-breaking or occasionally downright barking mad women from the obituaries files of the daily telegraph. What's great about this book is that these are not just famous lives - most of the women in it I had never heard of and was extremely glad to be introduced to. Some of their stories made me laugh aloud while others moved me to tears. An amusing, exciting, uplifting tribute to womanhood. A great book.

The best so far., 01 Sep 2007
As a shipwreck historian, I have often encountered a number of the names contained within this book. As an occasional author of a "letter to the Editor," I have also spoken with the David Twiston Davies on more than one occasion when he was Letters Editor for the Daily Telegraph. Somehow, a combination of these two factors has brought out the very best (for me at least) in this series of books. Perhaps it's just that Naval History is my subject and this book is full of those who made it.

Obituaries are, by there very nature, a brief means of celebrating in words the lives of those who, for whatever reason, are deemed important enough to be included. Some enjoyed long and fruitful lives, others not. Some, such as Admiral of the Fleet Lord Lewin of Greenwich (probably one of the greatest men of our time), achieved the highest possible office and rank. Others, such as Bill Sparks DSM (last of the Cockleshell heroes), did not. In this book they are given equal billing and quite rightly so.

Amongst "some" of the other names which sprang from the page as I scanned the contents list were; Rear Admiral Godfrey Place VC (commander of X-Craft 7 - a miniature submarine in which he mad a successful attack of the 41,000 ton German battleship Tirpitz in Kaafjord in 1943, an attack from which the ship never recovered) and, perhaps somewhat surprisingly, Flotillenadmiral Otto Kretschmer who, as commander of U 99 (the Golden Horseshoe) went on to become the most successful U Boat Ace of World War Two.

I was aware that Kretschmer was captured and became a POW in Ontario (during which time he was even promoted because of the intelligence he was sending back to Germany!). I did not know, however, that he joined the post-war German Navy (Bundesmarine) in which he went on to complete a full career - eventually reaching the rank of Flotillenadmiral which equates to our Commodore. A small number of American and Russian personalities are also included. It was most interesting see which had been of sufficient interest to a British newspaper.

Altogether, 106 obituaries from the past 20 years as published in the Daily Telegraph. If you missed any of them first time around, then this is your chance to find them again. One thing is for certain though, you cannot possibly avoid reading the next one - and then the next.

Several annoying typographical errors (mostly missing spaces between two words) but these will not spoil your enjoyment of an otherwise outstanding book.

NM



Excellent book!, 13 Dec 2007
This is an excellent book, full of fascinating tales of famous and less well-known figures with links (somewhat tenous in a few cases) to the game of football.

Written in a very erudite, entertaining way, this book is a goldmine for lovers of trivia, quizzes, etc, bringing to a light a host of often forgotten facts and stories from bygone days. Reading it is a fine way to spend time on a cold winter's night.

I would recommend it as the ideal Christmas present for the football fan(s) in your family.

A Dodo is not just for Christmas, 15 Nov 2007
This is a clever conceit a concept that will run and run. The title invites the browser to pause and pick up. Initially she/he may be disappointed because the obituaries relate to people, organisations, concepts, myths and pretensions that in most cases are still, sadly with us. The writing is excellent and although on occasion innocent parties, places and people are caught by the follow through of the broadsword for the most part the accuracy of the rapier thrusts and cutlass slashes deftly dispose of the unfit for existence. It gives those of us who have neither the time nor skill the satisfaction of knowing that someone is doing a good job for us and makes us laugh at the same time. Occasionally the lame duck being harried excites a lip curl of distaste rather than the effect looked for by the writers but there are not many instances of this. This title could well be the `Giles Annual' of the future but should not be confined to Christmas purchase.


Dead Funny, 14 Nov 2007
A satirical look at the world around us that made me howl with laughter with obituaries for the things that I hadn't realised had died or had long wished would soon shuffle off this mortal coil. The obits cover everything from domestic and international politics, to science and entertainment. I was particularly taken with the death of (fictional) George Bush, and the death of gravity after the opening of the Grand Canyon Skywalk surprised me but amused me too (Buzz Aldrin: "In your face, Neil Armstrong!") to name but just a few. A very enlightening and entertaining read and also a perfect Christmas present too.

Satire isn't dead, 14 Nov 2007
A real gem of a book that's breathed new life into the art of satire by larking about with obituaries. One of the few books I've read recently that has made me laugh tea out of my nose - the Da Vinci Code court case obituary is a particular favourite, although the Death of the Fictional Dubya Bush is also up there. A perfect Christmas gift for friends and family.

Twinkle, twinkle little satire, 24 Sep 2007
This book came as a bit of a surprise. I'd started to believe that no-one was producing proper satire these days but this is the real deal: not only did it make me laugh it also made me think. Sure there are a few easy targets (Tim Henman, Britney Spears) but they still manage to be funny, and this book isn't afraid to have a go at tougher stuff (religious schools, the death of freedom, Lord Reith's legacy)too

laugh out loud, 17 Sep 2007
I know it's a cliche but this book has literally made me laugh out loud. It's an irreverant, inventive and refreshing review of our times: politics; celebrity; trends; the lot. The entry about Britney Spears' Hair is a classic but my favourite is the faux-obituary of Jeremy Clarkson. It's quite a good stocking filler Christmas present I would have thought. I will be buying it for those 'difficult to buy for' men in my family.

A delightful read., 30 May 2007
With the immediate sadness of their loss being long passed, this book allows the reader to rejoice at the lives of 100 outstanding "Airmen" who made their names in the world of aviation in one way or another.

Naturally, there are the famous names - such as; Cheshire VC, Tom Sopwith and Frank Whittle. Those who achieved high office - Elworthy and Spotswood. Then there are the heroes from two world wars in addition to those whose contribution was just as important but for whom combat would never come their way.

Altogether, this is a book about past "Airmen" (and women) who made a significant contribution either in time of peace or war. It includes civilians in addition to serving personnel dawn from the across the rank structure. Written with a professional charm which incorporates all the wit, insight compassion and humour that each of the colourful personalities would wish to see included, this book is not only a delightful read, it is a true testament to each of those who are portrayed here.

NM

An Overwhelming Collection of Lives, 19 Aug 2008
These obituaries of the ladies who defied convention in the last century are truly revelations. Most of the women, with a few notable exceptions, were previously unknown to me, and I ended up filling my bedside notebook with names to research further. Others, like Patricia Highsmith, Barbara Cartland and Eva Gabor, were more familiar, but even they had secrets to divulge in these last big stories of their lives.

The only problem I had with Chin Up, Girls is that reading it in one go, as I did, the people started to run together and I lost track of who was who. This is a book meant to be savored over a long period of time, but don't be stupid like I was; get a copy to keep rather than borrowing it from the library.

A superb and varied collection of women's lives, 19 Sep 2005
This beautifully and thoughtfully edited selection of women's lives is the perfect gift for any women - or man. There are very few well-known women in the collection which makes for even more fascinating reading - from eccentric aristoctracy to brave and fearless women during war to ordinary people who end up having extraordinary lives.
Every obituary is well written and many are extremely amusing pieces of writing, regardless of the subject. A thoroughly good present in the run up to Christmas.

A Wonderful Book, 15 Sep 2005
A compendium of heroic, ground-breaking or occasionally downright barking mad women from the obituaries files of the daily telegraph. What's great about this book is that these are not just famous lives - most of the women in it I had never heard of and was extremely glad to be introduced to. Some of their stories made me laugh aloud while others moved me to tears. An amusing, exciting, uplifting tribute to womanhood. A great book.

The best so far., 01 Sep 2007
As a shipwreck historian, I have often encountered a number of the names contained within this book. As an occasional author of a "letter to the Editor," I have also spoken with the David Twiston Davies on more than one occasion when he was Letters Editor for the Daily Telegraph. Somehow, a combination of these two factors has brought out the very best (for me at least) in this series of books. Perhaps it's just that Naval History is my subject and this book is full of those who made it.

Obituaries are, by there very nature, a brief means of celebrating in words the lives of those who, for whatever reason, are deemed important enough to be included. Some enjoyed long and fruitful lives, others not. Some, such as Admiral of the Fleet Lord Lewin of Greenwich (probably one of the greatest men of our time), achieved the highest possible office and rank. Others, such as Bill Sparks DSM (last of the Cockleshell heroes), did not. In this book they are given equal billing and quite rightly so.

Amongst "some" of the other names which sprang from the page as I scanned the contents list were; Rear Admiral Godfrey Place VC (commander of X-Craft 7 - a miniature submarine in which he mad a successful attack of the 41,000 ton German battleship Tirpitz in Kaafjord in 1943, an attack from which the ship never recovered) and, perhaps somewhat surprisingly, Flotillenadmiral Otto Kretschmer who, as commander of U 99 (the Golden Horseshoe) went on to become the most successful U Boat Ace of World War Two.

I was aware that Kretschmer was captured and became a POW in Ontario (during which time he was even promoted because of the intelligence he was sending back to Germany!). I did not know, however, that he joined the post-war German Navy (Bundesmarine) in which he went on to complete a full career - eventually reaching the rank of Flotillenadmiral which equates to our Commodore. A small number of American and Russian personalities are also included. It was most interesting see which had been of sufficient interest to a British newspaper.

Altogether, 106 obituaries from the past 20 years as published in the Daily Telegraph. If you missed any of them first time around, then this is your chance to find them again. One thing is for certain though, you cannot possibly avoid reading the next one - and then the next.

Several annoying typographical errors (mostly missing spaces between two words) but these will not spoil your enjoyment of an otherwise outstanding book.

NM



Excellent book!, 13 Dec 2007
This is an excellent book, full of fascinating tales of famous and less well-known figures with links (somewhat tenous in a few cases) to the game of football.

Written in a very erudite, entertaining way, this book is a goldmine for lovers of trivia, quizzes, etc, bringing to a light a host of often forgotten facts and stories from bygone days. Reading it is a fine way to spend time on a cold winter's night.

I would recommend it as the ideal Christmas present for the football fan(s) in your family.

A Dodo is not just for Christmas, 15 Nov 2007
This is a clever conceit a concept that will run and run. The title invites the browser to pause and pick up. Initially she/he may be disappointed because the obituaries relate to people, organisations, concepts, myths and pretensions that in most cases are still, sadly with us. The writing is excellent and although on occasion innocent parties, places and people are caught by the follow through of the broadsword for the most part the accuracy of the rapier thrusts and cutlass slashes deftly dispose of the unfit for existence. It gives those of us who have neither the time nor skill the satisfaction of knowing that someone is doing a good job for us and makes us laugh at the same time. Occasionally the lame duck being harried excites a lip curl of distaste rather than the effect looked for by the writers but there are not many instances of this. This title could well be the `Giles Annual' of the future but should not be confined to Christmas purchase.


Dead Funny, 14 Nov 2007
A satirical look at the world around us that made me howl with laughter with obituaries for the things that I hadn't realised had died or had long wished would soon shuffle off this mortal coil. The obits cover everything from domestic and international politics, to science and entertainment. I was particularly taken with the death of (fictional) George Bush, and the death of gravity after the opening of the Grand Canyon Skywalk surprised me but amused me too (Buzz Aldrin: "In your face, Neil Armstrong!") to name but just a few. A very enlightening and entertaining read and also a perfect Christmas present too.

Satire isn't dead, 14 Nov 2007
A real gem of a book that's breathed new life into the art of satire by larking about with obituaries. One of the few books I've read recently that has made me laugh tea out of my nose - the Da Vinci Code court case obituary is a particular favourite, although the Death of the Fictional Dubya Bush is also up there. A perfect Christmas gift for friends and family.

Twinkle, twinkle little satire, 24 Sep 2007
This book came as a bit of a surprise. I'd started to believe that no-one was producing proper satire these days but this is the real deal: not only did it make me laugh it also made me think. Sure there are a few easy targets (Tim Henman, Britney Spears) but they still manage to be funny, and this book isn't afraid to have a go at tougher stuff (religious schools, the death of freedom, Lord Reith's legacy)too

laugh out loud, 17 Sep 2007
I know it's a cliche but this book has literally made me laugh out loud. It's an irreverant, inventive and refreshing review of our times: politics; celebrity; trends; the lot. The entry about Britney Spears' Hair is a classic but my favourite is the faux-obituary of Jeremy Clarkson. It's quite a good stocking filler Christmas present I would have thought. I will be buying it for those 'difficult to buy for' men in my family.

A delightful read., 30 May 2007
With the immediate sadness of their loss being long passed, this book allows the reader to rejoice at the lives of 100 outstanding "Airmen" who made their names in the world of aviation in one way or another.

Naturally, there are the famous names - such as; Cheshire VC, Tom Sopwith and Frank Whittle. Those who achieved high office - Elworthy and Spotswood. Then there are the heroes from two world wars in addition to those whose contribution was just as important but for whom combat would never come their way.

Altogether, this is a book about past "Airmen" (and women) who made a significant contribution either in time of peace or war. It includes civilians in addition to serving personnel dawn from the across the rank structure. Written with a professional charm which incorporates all the wit, insight compassion and humour that each of the colourful personalities would wish to see included, this book is not only a delightful read, it is a true testament to each of those who are portrayed here.

NM



Fascinating, 11 Mar 2007
This is a book that does exactly what it says on the cover. It's a collection of some of the more unusual obituaries featured in Wisden over the years & doesn't necessarily concentrate on the most famous of cricket glitterati but more on those associated with the game (yes ,even the Lord's cat), whose obituaries have some curiosity value.
I found that this was a book which was an enjoyable read , in a "dip in & out " fashion. Some quite thought provoking entries,some quite humorous & some , as with those who perished in war,very tragic.
Still, an interesting collection & well worth getting a hold of.

An Overwhelming Collection of Lives, 19 Aug 2008
These obituaries of the ladies who defied convention in the last century are truly revelations. Most of the women, with a few notable exceptions, were previously unknown to me, and I ended up filling my bedside notebook with names to research further. Others, like Patricia Highsmith, Barbara Cartland and Eva Gabor, were more familiar, but even they had secrets to divulge in these last big stories of their lives.

The only problem I had with Chin Up, Girls is that reading it in one go, as I did, the people started to run together and I lost track of who was who. This is a book meant to be savored over a long period of time, but don't be stupid like I was; get a copy to keep rather than borrowing it from the library.

A superb and varied collection of women's lives, 19 Sep 2005
This beautifully and thoughtfully edited selection of women's lives is the perfect gift for any women - or man. There are very few well-known women in the collection which makes for even more fascinating reading - from eccentric aristoctracy to brave and fearless women during war to ordinary people who end up having extraordinary lives.
Every obituary is well written and many are extremely amusing pieces of writing, regardless of the subject. A thoroughly good present in the run up to Christmas.

A Wonderful Book, 15 Sep 2005
A compendium of heroic, ground-breaking or occasionally downright barking mad women from the obituaries files of the daily telegraph. What's great about this book is that these are not just famous lives - most of the women in it I had never heard of and was extremely glad to be introduced to. Some of their stories made me laugh aloud while others moved me to tears. An amusing, exciting, uplifting tribute to womanhood. A great book.

The best so far., 01 Sep 2007
As a shipwreck historian, I have often encountered a number of the names contained within this book. As an occasional author of a "letter to the Editor," I have also spoken with the David Twiston Davies on more than one occasion when he was Letters Editor for the Daily Telegraph. Somehow, a combination of these two factors has brought out the very best (for me at least) in this series of books. Perhaps it's just that Naval History is my subject and this book is full of those who made it.

Obituaries are, by there very nature, a brief means of celebrating in words the lives of those who, for whatever reason, are deemed important enough to be included. Some enjoyed long and fruitful lives, others not. Some, such as Admiral of the Fleet Lord Lewin of Greenwich (probably one of the greatest men of our time), achieved the highest possible office and rank. Others, such as Bill Sparks DSM (last of the Cockleshell heroes), did not. In this book they are given equal billing and quite rightly so.

Amongst "some" of the other names which sprang from the page as I scanned the contents list were; Rear Admiral Godfrey Place VC (commander of X-Craft 7 - a miniature submarine in which he mad a successful attack of the 41,000 ton German battleship Tirpitz in Kaafjord in 1943, an attack from which the ship never recovered) and, perhaps somewhat surprisingly, Flotillenadmiral Otto Kretschmer who, as commander of U 99 (the Golden Horseshoe) went on to become the most successful U Boat Ace of World War Two.

I was aware that Kretschmer was captured and became a POW in Ontario (during which time he was even promoted because of the intelligence he was sending back to Germany!). I did not know, however, that he joined the post-war German Navy (Bundesmarine) in which he went on to complete a full career - eventually reaching the rank of Flotillenadmiral which equates to our Commodore. A small number of American and Russian personalities are also included. It was most interesting see which had been of sufficient interest to a British newspaper.

Altogether, 106 obituaries from the past 20 years as published in the Daily Telegraph. If you missed any of them first time around, then this is your chance to find them again. One thing is for certain though, you cannot possibly avoid reading the next one - and then the next.

Several annoying typographical errors (mostly missing spaces between two words) but these will not spoil your enjoyment of an otherwise outstanding book.

NM



Excellent book!, 13 Dec 2007
This is an excellent book, full of fascinating tales of famous and less well-known figures with links (somewhat tenous in a few cases) to the game of football.

Written in a very erudite, entertaining way, this book is a goldmine for lovers of trivia, quizzes, etc, bringing to a light a host of often forgotten facts and stories from bygone days. Reading it is a fine way to spend time on a cold winter's night.

I would recommend it as the ideal Christmas present for the football fan(s) in your family.

A Dodo is not just for Christmas, 15 Nov 2007
This is a clever conceit a concept that will run and run. The title invites the browser to pause and pick up. Initially she/he may be disappointed because the obituaries relate to people, organisations, concepts, myths and pretensions that in most cases are still, sadly with us. The writing is excellent and although on occasion innocent parties, places and people are caught by the follow through of the broadsword for the most part the accuracy of the rapier thrusts and cutlass slashes deftly dispose of the unfit for existence. It gives those of us who have neither the time nor skill the satisfaction of knowing that someone is doing a good job for us and makes us laugh at the same time. Occasionally the lame duck being harried excites a lip curl of distaste rather than the effect looked for by the writers but there are not many instances of this. This title could well be the `Giles Annual' of the future but should not be confined to Christmas purchase.


Dead Funny, 14 Nov 2007
A satirical look at the world around us that made me howl with laughter with obituaries for the things that I hadn't realised had died or had long wished would soon shuffle off this mortal coil. The obits cover everything from domestic and international politics, to science and entertainment. I was particularly taken with the death of (fictional) George Bush, and the death of gravity after the opening of the Grand Canyon Skywalk surprised me but amused me too (Buzz Aldrin: "In your face, Neil Armstrong!") to name but just a few. A very enlightening and entertaining read and also a perfect Christmas present too.

Satire isn't dead, 14 Nov 2007
A real gem of a book that's breathed new life into the art of satire by larking about with obituaries. One of the few books I've read recently that has made me laugh tea out of my nose - the Da Vinci Code court case obituary is a particular favourite, although the Death of the Fictional Dubya Bush is also up there. A perfect Christmas gift for friends and family.

Twinkle, twinkle little satire, 24 Sep 2007
This book came as a bit of a surprise. I'd started to believe that no-one was producing proper satire these days but this is the real deal: not only did it make me laugh it also made me think. Sure there are a few easy targets (Tim Henman, Britney Spears) but they still manage to be funny, and this book isn't afraid to have a go at tougher stuff (religious schools, the death of freedom, Lord Reith's legacy)too

laugh out loud, 17 Sep 2007
I know it's a cliche but this book has literally made me laugh out loud. It's an irreverant, inventive and refreshing review of our times: politics; celebrity; trends; the lot. The entry about Britney Spears' Hair is a classic but my favourite is the faux-obituary of Jeremy Clarkson. It's quite a good stocking filler Christmas present I would have thought. I will be buying it for those 'difficult to buy for' men in my family.

A delightful read., 30 May 2007
With the immediate sadness of their loss being long passed, this book allows the reader to rejoice at the lives of 100 outstanding "Airmen" who made their names in the world of aviation in one way or another.

Naturally, there are the famous names - such as; Cheshire VC, Tom Sopwith and Frank Whittle. Those who achieved high office - Elworthy and Spotswood. Then there are the heroes from two world wars in addition to those whose contribution was just as important but for whom combat would never come their way.

Altogether, this is a book about past "Airmen" (and women) who made a significant contribution either in time of peace or war. It includes civilians in addition to serving personnel dawn from the across the rank structure. Written with a professional charm which incorporates all the wit, insight compassion and humour that each of the colourful personalities would wish to see included, this book is not only a delightful read, it is a true testament to each of those who are portrayed here.

NM



Fascinating, 11 Mar 2007
This is a book that does exactly what it says on the cover. It's a collection of some of the more unusual obituaries featured in Wisden over the years & doesn't necessarily concentrate on the most famous of cricket glitterati but more on those associated with the game (yes ,even the Lord's cat), whose obituaries have some curiosity value.
I found that this was a book which was an enjoyable read , in a "dip in & out " fashion. Some quite thought provoking entries,some quite humorous & some , as with those who perished in war,very tragic.
Still, an interesting collection & well worth getting a hold of.


Another book which is hard to put down., 24 Sep 2007
If there is but one single disadvantage to getting older, it is that we begin to recognise, from within our own circle of people and experiences, more and more of those whose names appear under the heading "Obituaries." This second book of Military Obituaries, from David Twiston Davies, contains one of my former commanding officers and a former colleague who was 10 years my junior. Not that I'm getting old - certainly not, but it does add a personal connection.

In an excellent compilation, we are treated to an abbreviated celebration of the lives of another 100 former soldiers who were not all generals or holders of the VC. Signalman Laurence Cotterell, for example, went on to become a notable poet and Rifleman Alex Bowlby wrote an outstanding book which was hailed as "one of the best accounts of a front-line infantryman in the Second World War." Elsewhere, there are, as there should be, accounts of the lives and the deeds of the good and the great including the redoubtable General Sir Anthony Farrar-Hockley and my old CO Johnny Watts...

What I like most about the book is the eclectic mix with every single army rank being represented. From 100 obituaries, six were holders of the VC, twenty held the rank of Brigadier to Field Marshal and a further 15 were non-commissioned. If I could improve the book, however, it would be to add the relevant page number against the list of names of those who are included.

The saddest part was in learning of the death of Vanessa Lloyd-Davies two years ago. We were colleagues in the former Yugoslavia in 1992 and there are many unanswered questions from that particular tour of duty and the way in which it was commanded!

David Twis' has produced another sobering, yet entertaining, book about the lives of 100 people who played a part in history. Sobering, because of what each person did and achieved. Entertaining, because we are not reading about their deaths - but about their lives. Quite often you find yourself thinking "Wow!" as you read of some of the exploits of those now departed.

Altogether, it really is a hard book to put down.

NM

An Overwhelming Collection of Lives, 19 Aug 2008
These obituaries of the ladies who defied convention in the last century are truly revelations. Most of the women, with a few notable exceptions, were previously unknown to me, and I ended up filling my bedside notebook with names to research further. Others, like Patricia Highsmith, Barbara Cartland and Eva Gabor, were more familiar, but even they had secrets to divulge in these last big stories of their lives.

The only problem I had with Chin Up, Girls is that reading it in one go, as I did, the people started to run together and I lost track of who was who. This is a book meant to be savored over a long period of time, but don't be stupid like I was; get a copy to keep rather than borrowing it from the library.

A superb and varied collection of women's lives, 19 Sep 2005
This beautifully and thoughtfully edited selection of women's lives is the perfect gift for any women - or man. There are very few well-known women in the collection which makes for even more fascinating reading - from eccentric aristoctracy to brave and fearless women during war to ordinary people who end up having extraordinary lives.
Every obituary is well written and many are extremely amusing pieces of writing, regardless of the subject. A thoroughly good present in the run up to Christmas.

A Wonderful Book, 15 Sep 2005
A compendium of heroic, ground-breaking or occasionally downright barking mad women from the obituaries files of the daily telegraph. What's great about this book is that these are not just famous lives - most of the women in it I had never heard of and was extremely glad to be introduced to. Some of their stories made me laugh aloud while others moved me to tears. An amusing, exciting, uplifting tribute to womanhood. A great book.

The best so far., 01 Sep 2007
As a shipwreck historian, I have often encountered a number of the names contained within this book. As an occasional author of a "letter to the Editor," I have also spoken with the David Twiston Davies on more than one occasion when he was Letters Editor for the Daily Telegraph. Somehow, a combination of these two factors has brought out the very best (for me at least) in this series of books. Perhaps it's just that Naval History is my subject and this book is full of those who made it.

Obituaries are, by there very nature, a brief means of celebrating in words the lives of those who, for whatever reason, are deemed important enough to be included. Some enjoyed long and fruitful lives, others not. Some, such as Admiral of the Fleet Lord Lewin of Greenwich (probably one of the greatest men of our time), achieved the highest possible office and rank. Others, such as Bill Sparks DSM (last of the Cockleshell heroes), did not. In this book they are given equal billing and quite rightly so.

Amongst "some" of the other names which sprang from the page as I scanned the contents list were; Rear Admiral Godfrey Place VC (commander of X-Craft 7 - a miniature submarine in which he mad a successful attack of the 41,000 ton German battleship Tirpitz in Kaafjord in 1943, an attack from which the ship never recovered) and, perhaps somewhat surprisingly, Flotillenadmiral Otto Kretschmer who, as commander of U 99 (the Golden Horseshoe) went on to become the most successful U Boat Ace of World War Two.

I was aware that Kretschmer was captured and became a POW in Ontario (during which time he was even promoted because of the intelligence he was sending back to Germany!). I did not know, however, that he joined the post-war German Navy (Bundesmarine) in which he went on to complete a full career - eventually reaching the rank of Flotillenadmiral which equates to our Commodore. A small number of American and Russian personalities are also included. It was most interesting see which had been of sufficient interest to a British newspaper.

Altogether, 106 obituaries from the past 20 years as published in the Daily Telegraph. If you missed any of them first time around, then this is your chance to find them again. One thing is for certain though, you cannot possibly avoid reading the next one - and then the next.

Several annoying typographical errors (mostly missing spaces between two words) but these will not spoil your enjoyment of an otherwise outstanding book.

NM



Excellent book!, 13 Dec 2007
This is an excellent book, full of fascinating tales of famous and less well-known figures with links (somewhat tenous in a few cases) to the game of football.

Written in a very erudite, entertaining way, this book is a goldmine for lovers of trivia, quizzes, etc, bringing to a light a host of often forgotten facts and stories from bygone days. Reading it is a fine way to spend time on a cold winter's night.

I would recommend it as the ideal Christmas present for the football fan(s) in your family.

A Dodo is not just for Christmas, 15 Nov 2007
This is a clever conceit a concept that will run and run. The title invites the browser to pause and pick up. Initially she/he may be disappointed because the obituaries relate to people, organisations, concepts, myths and pretensions that in most cases are still, sadly with us. The writing is excellent and although on occasion innocent parties, places and people are caught by the follow through of the broadsword for the most part the accuracy of the rapier thrusts and cutlass slashes deftly dispose of the unfit for existence. It gives those of us who have neither the time nor skill the satisfaction of knowing that someone is doing a good job for us and makes us laugh at the same time. Occasionally the lame duck being harried excites a lip curl of distaste rather than the effect looked for by the writers but there are not many instances of this. This title could well be the `Giles Annual' of the future but should not be confined to Christmas purchase.


Dead Funny, 14 Nov 2007
A satirical look at the world around us that made me howl with laughter with obituaries for the things that I hadn't realised had died or had long wished would soon shuffle off this mortal coil. The obits cover everything from domestic and international politics, to science and entertainment. I was particularly taken with the death of (fictional) George Bush, and the death of gravity after the opening of the Grand Canyon Skywalk surprised me but amused me too (Buzz Aldrin: "In your face, Neil Armstrong!") to name but just a few. A very enlightening and entertaining read and also a perfect Christmas present too.

Satire isn't dead, 14 Nov 2007
A real gem of a book that's breathed new life into the art of satire by larking about with obituaries. One of the few books I've read recently that has made me laugh tea out of my nose - the Da Vinci Code court case obituary is a particular favourite, although the Death of the Fictional Dubya Bush is also up there. A perfect Christmas gift for friends and family.

Twinkle, twinkle little satire, 24 Sep 2007
This book came as a bit of a surprise. I'd started to believe that no-one was producing proper satire these days but this is the real deal: not only did it make me laugh it also made me think. Sure there are a few easy targets (Tim Henman, Britney Spears) but they still manage to be funny, and this book isn't afraid to have a go at tougher stuff (religious schools, the death of freedom, Lord Reith's legacy)too

laugh out loud, 17 Sep 2007
I know it's a cliche but this book has literally made me laugh out loud. It's an irreverant, inventive and refreshing review of our times: politics; celebrity; trends; the lot. The entry about Britney Spears' Hair is a classic but my favourite is the faux-obituary of Jeremy Clarkson. It's quite a good stocking filler Christmas present I would have thought. I will be buying it for those 'difficult to buy for' men in my family.

A delightful read., 30 May 2007
With the immediate sadness of their loss being long passed, this book allows the reader to rejoice at the lives of 100 outstanding "Airmen" who made their names in the world of aviation in one way or another.

Naturally, there are the famous names - such as; Cheshire VC, Tom Sopwith and Frank Whittle. Those who achieved high office - Elworthy and Spotswood. Then there are the heroes from two world wars in addition to those whose contribution was just as important but for whom combat would never come their way.

Altogether, this is a book about past "Airmen" (and women) who made a significant contribution either in time of peace or war. It includes civilians in addition to serving personnel dawn from the across the rank structure. Written with a professional charm which incorporates all the wit, insight compassion and humour that each of the colourful personalities would wish to see included, this book is not only a delightful read, it is a true testament to each of those who are portrayed here.

NM



Fascinating, 11 Mar 2007
This is a book that does exactly what it says on the cover. It's a collection of some of the more unusual obituaries featured in Wisden over the years & doesn't necessarily concentrate on the most famous of cricket glitterati but more on those associated with the game (yes ,even the Lord's cat), whose obituaries have some curiosity value.
I found that this was a book which was an enjoyable read , in a "dip in & out " fashion. Some quite thought provoking entries,some quite humorous & some , as with those who perished in war,very tragic.
Still, an interesting collection & well worth getting a hold of.


Another book which is hard to put down., 24 Sep 2007
If there is but one single disadvantage to getting older, it is that we begin to recognise, from within our own circle of people and experiences, more and more of those whose names appear under the heading "Obituaries." This second book of Military Obituaries, from David Twiston Davies, contains one of my former commanding officers and a former colleague who was 10 years my junior. Not that I'm getting old - certainly not, but it does add a personal connection.

In an excellent compilation, we are treated to an abbreviated celebration of the lives of another 100 former soldiers who were not all generals or holders of the VC. Signalman Laurence Cotterell, for example, went on to become a notable poet and Rifleman Alex Bowlby wrote an outstanding book which was hailed as "one of the best accounts of a front-line infantryman in the Second World War." Elsewhere, there are, as there should be, accounts of the lives and the deeds of the good and the great including the redoubtable General Sir Anthony Farrar-Hockley and my old CO Johnny Watts...

What I like most about the book is the eclectic mix with every single army rank being represented. From 100 obituaries, six were holders of the VC, twenty held the rank of Brigadier to Field Marshal and a further 15 were non-commissioned. If I could improve the book, however, it would be to add the relevant page number against the list of names of those who are included.

The saddest part was in learning of the death of Vanessa Lloyd-Davies two years ago. We were colleagues in the former Yugoslavia in 1992 and there are many unanswered questions from that particular tour of duty and the way in which it was commanded!

David Twis' has produced another sobering, yet entertaining, book about the lives of 100 people who played a part in history. Sobering, because of what each person did and achieved. Entertaining, because we are not reading about their deaths - but about their lives. Quite often you find yourself thinking "Wow!" as you read of some of the exploits of those now departed.

Altogether, it really is a hard book to put down.

NM



An engaging read., 30 May 2007
Having previously spent 27 years serving in the British Army, I was drawn to the entries in this book of, firstly, those who I had known - or even briefly met, during my time in uniform and, secondly, to those of whom I had heard. Finally, the remainder seemed to have earned, between them, every distinction and award it was possible to have earned during lifetimes which witnessed great upheaval throughout Europe and the rest of the world.

An example from my first selection of names is that of Field Marshall Carver - who I well remember meeting on a visit to Northern Ireland in 1974 when he was Chief of the Defence Staff. We were all very impressed by that man. From my second list, the redoubtable Lt Colonel Colin Mitchell of the Argyll's was a figure who engendered much respect and for whom there was a great outpouring of public displeasure when he failed to receive a much-deserved DSO after his very public tour of Aden in 1967 - for which he earned the nickname "Mad Mitch." Elsewhere, there are those who fought and served including recipients of both the Victoria and George Crosses.

This is a fascinating book expertly put together by David Twiston Davies who, for many years was Letters Editor of the Daily Telegraph prior to his being appointed to Obituaries. How refreshing to see him use the word "Military" in the title of this book - as it should be used, in connection with the army and not in connection with armed forces in general. For those who do not understand that distinction, this book contains 100 soldier's obituaries carefully selected to give the reader a cross-section of both ranks and experiences.

It is an engaging read and often hard to put down.

NM



Great bed-time reading, wholy enjoyable, 14 Oct 2003
I have already purchased Grub Street's Daily Telegraph Book of Airmen's Obituaries which was a classic read and great to dip in-and-out of. I was extremely happy to see that Grub Street has now released a book of Military Obituaries.

This book is an absolute pleasure to read - and contains some great anecdotes and humour and is not as morbid as some might consider. Presentation must be noted - it is a great size and the presentation is very nice indeed - I especially like the front cover image, which, I believe, is a Bruce Bairnsfather. I'd definitely recommend this title to anyone who has an interest in military history. Great job!

An Overwhelming Collection of Lives, 19 Aug 2008
These obituaries of the ladies who defied convention in the last century are truly revelations. Most of the women, with a few notable exceptions, were previously unknown to me, and I ended up filling my bedside notebook with names to research further. Others, like Patricia Highsmith, Barbara Cartland and Eva Gabor, were more familiar, but even they had secrets to divulge in these last big stories of their lives.

The only problem I had with Chin Up, Girls is that reading it in one go, as I did, the people started to run together and I lost track of who was who. This is a book meant to be savored over a long period of time, but don't be stupid like I was; get a copy to keep rather than borrowing it from the library.

A superb and varied collection of women's lives, 19 Sep 2005
This beautifully and thoughtfully edited selection of women's lives is the perfect gift for any women - or man. There are very few well-known women in the collection which makes for even more fascinating reading - from eccentric aristoctracy to brave and fearless women during war to ordinary people who end up having extraordinary lives.
Every obituary is well written and many are extremely amusing pieces of writing, regardless of the subject. A thoroughly good present in the run up to Christmas.

A Wonderful Book, 15 Sep 2005
A compendium of heroic, ground-breaking or occasionally downright barking mad women from the obituaries files of the daily telegraph. What's great about this book is that these are not just famous lives - most of the women in it I had never heard of and was extremely glad to be introduced to. Some of their stories made me laugh aloud while others moved me to tears. An amusing, exciting, uplifting tribute to womanhood. A great book.

The best so far., 01 Sep 2007
As a shipwreck historian, I have often encountered a number of the names contained within this book. As an occasional author of a "letter to the Editor," I have also spoken with the David Twiston Davies on more than one occasion when he was Letters Editor for the Daily Telegraph. Somehow, a combination of these two factors has brought out the very best (for me at least) in this series of books. Perhaps it's just that Naval History is my subject and this book is full of those who made it.

Obituaries are, by there very nature, a brief means of celebrating in words the lives of those who, for whatever reason, are deemed important enough to be included. Some enjoyed long and fruitful lives, others not. Some, such as Admiral of the Fleet Lord Lewin of Greenwich (probably one of the greatest men of our time), achieved the highest possible office and rank. Others, such as Bill Sparks DSM (last of the Cockleshell heroes), did not. In this book they are given equal billing and quite rightly so.

Amongst "some" of the other names which sprang from the page as I scanned the contents list were; Rear Admiral Godfrey Place VC (commander of X-Craft 7 - a miniature submarine in which he mad a successful attack of the 41,000 ton German battleship Tirpitz in Kaafjord in 1943, an attack from which the ship never recovered) and, perhaps somewhat surprisingly, Flotillenadmiral Otto Kretschmer who, as commander of U 99 (the Golden Horseshoe) went on to become the most successful U Boat Ace of World War Two.

I was aware that Kretschmer was captured and became a POW in Ontario (during which time he was even promoted because of the intelligence he was sending back to Germany!). I did not know, however, that he joined the post-war German Navy (Bundesmarine) in which he went on to complete a full career - eventually reaching the rank of Flotillenadmiral which equates to our Commodore. A small number of American and Russian personalities are also included. It was most interesting see which had been of sufficient interest to a British newspaper.

Altogether, 106 obituaries from the past 20 years as published in the Daily Telegraph. If you missed any of them first time around, then this is your chance to find them again. One thing is for certain though, you cannot possibly avoid reading the next one - and then the next.

Several annoying typographical errors (mostly missing spaces between two words) but these will not spoil your enjoyment of an otherwise outstanding book.

NM



Excellent book!, 13 Dec 2007
This is an excellent book, full of fascinating tales of famous and less well-known figures with links (somewhat tenous in a few cases) to the game of football.

Written in a very erudite, entertaining way, this book is a goldmine for lovers of trivia, quizzes, etc, bringing to a light a host of often forgotten facts and stories from bygone days. Reading it is a fine way to spend time on a cold winter's night.

I would recommend it as the ideal Christmas present for the football fan(s) in your family.

A Dodo is not just for Christmas, 15 Nov 2007
This is a clever conceit a concept that will run and run. The title invites the browser to pause and pick up. Initially she/he may be disappointed because the obituaries relate to people, organisations, concepts, myths and pretensions that in most cases are still, sadly with us. The writing is excellent and although on occasion innocent parties, places and people are