The Essential Spike Milligan - Softcover

Spike Milligan

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0007155115 ISBN 13: 9780007155118

Publisher: Fourth Estate, 2003

Synopsis

A Spike Milligan opus, containing everything from classics to hidden gems, with a foreword by Eddie Izzard.

This stunning anthology of Spike Milligan's work comprises of favourites from his classic books (‘Adolf Hitler: My Part in his Downfall’, ‘Goodbye Soldier’, ‘Puckoon’...) as well as scripts from the now-classic Goon Show. Interspersing such comic genius is also a touching collection of letters and his celebrated and liberating writings on depression, demonstrating the diverse talent of a man whose creative output spanned over half a century.

A selection of children's poetry and writings (‘Unspun Socks for A Chicken's Laundry’, ‘A Book of Milliganimals’, ‘Silly Verse for Kids’ and much more) reveals Spike's irresistible connection with the childlike imagination and a brillant sense of the ridiculous. All the favourite and funniest stories are there. For those who want an excellent introduction to the mind of Milligan or a welcome return to a much-loved genius, this is the ultimate Milligan reader.

About this title

Review:

‘Wonderful anthology. A superbly sustained piece of comedy. Like so mush else in this collection, these excerpts inspire a return to the source.’ Chris Power, The Times

‘The most comprehensive compendium of the troubled genius' work. This volume spans his entire career...making this a testament to one of our most absurdly talented comedians. Poignant, nonsensical and hilarious. The Essential Spike Milligan is a more than appropriate epitaph.’ Ben Arnold, Jockey Slut

‘A joyous and wondrous thing...Alex Games has done a fine job...A sound and neatly timed volume and perfect for filling a Milligan-shaped gap in anyone’s life.’ Marcus Berkmann, Literary Review

‘Successfully shows why Spike Milligan deserves his place at the heart of British comedy.’ Simon Webster, TLS

From the Publisher:

Spike was one of the most loved and influential figures in post war comedy. This collection, compiled by Alexander Games is the essential volume for fans both young and old as well as the perfect introduction for those wishing to get to know him a little better.
Foreward written by Eddie Izard

About this edition

• Publisher: Fourth Estate
• Publication date: 2003
• ISBN 10: 0007155115
• ISBN 13: 9780007155118
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 344
• Editor: Alexander Games