Alan Bennett

Advantages: the depth of the character, believable and each unique
Disadvantages: None i can think of

...Although the characters are finctional,grounded no doubt on Alan's past experience and chance meetings,They are colourful, bright and full of life. Each of the monologues are unique to the next, Bennett creates a world of his own allowing the reader to see through the eyes of his characters and gain an insight into their, more often than not, tragic lives. The alcoholic Vicar's wife, the lady with the dead husband, financially ruined yet continues, All the characters have tragedies, whether this is intentional on Alan Bennett's part or sheer coincedence, when you read this book, the colouful language, the minute discription, attention to detail.allows this book to touch your heart, allows you to identify with the characters and to become inveloped in the world that Alan Bennett created. A marvellous piece of literature... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: discriptive,tragic, humourous and charming
Disadvantages: none

...One of the most disturbuing parts of Alan Bennetts life is read aloud by him. When assaulted in Italy,Alan, then realises how many of his birthdays have been spend either ill or in hospital. He relects on the tragedy of his life in a way that is totally unsurpassed and unique to him. Bennetts, way with words, his unique sense of humour and ability to turn darkness to light , makes this a fantastic audio book. Allows the listener a privilaged insight into his private life, his thoughts and his feelings. This is a wonderful story, you feel honoured to be allowed to know so much about his life, and read from his own lips, makes his story all the more poignant. This is part 4 own his diaries and can be heard alone, but having heard and read all of his diary collection, it is a fitting sequel and would be well purchased alongside... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Will last you a long time! Entertaining, humourous, and poignant.
Disadvantages: Not a quick read.

...Alan Bennett was unknown to me before I picked up this book. All I knew was that he was a playwright. I acquired the novel from Asda at a very good price of £3.99. I was looking for an intellectual, stimulating and humourous read. I definitely got what I asked for. The book is long and the print is small so it takes a while to read. It is what it says it is though - it is a mix of journal entries and musings. Naturally, it is very well written, and is easy to follow - but it is clear that this something written for adults as the language can be quite complex. Bennett does not leave much to the imagination, it has to be said, and he reveals a lot of personal insight on his family life, and can be at times very critical of family members. So much so that as a reader I felt quite invasive, almost like an intruder, knowing so much... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful