With some recent downtime, I had the opportunity to catch up on a few books. I’ve missed using my kindle and on a recent holiday, it was packed with many books that I loaded and had ready to read. Almost too many books to catch up on.

Here is a summary of the books that I decided to read which includes some older titles along with newer ones .

While I planned to read all while on holiday, I didn’t quite get through all these choices but will do.

“Buttered Parsnips” – Joe Lycett

I will admit to being a bit of a fan of this comedian. Oddly I had let this book pass me by. Needing a laugh before my holiday, I downloaded the kindle version. Unlike many books, this is really funny. You don’t often find really amusing books but this had me smiling and laughing out loud. Much of the book details Joe’s aliases that he uses while emailing companies and individuals to tackle issues, nonsense and have fun. After recommending to my wife, she also plans to read. Let’s hope there is a follow up.

“Making It So” – Patrick Stewart

Actor Patrick Stewart released this auto-biography at the end of 2023. Having been a bit of a Star Trek fan in the 80/90’s, I watched all of ST:TNG and even had an opportunity to see Patrick Stewart talk at a convention. I remember his talk being most humorous. This book conveys his humour covering his upbringing from birth (yes!) to his career and later life. I struggled initially to get into this but as soon as it started about his learnings to become an actor as a teenager, the book then grabbed me. Talking about his career. An enjoyable read from a very accomplished actor who knew very early on what they wanted to do in life.

“Absence of Moves” – Ken Hawes

An interesting autobiography about magician Ken Hawes. As a magic enthusiast, while lots of theory books are published, not enough auto biographies of artists are available. I met Ken last year at a Balloon Festival where he was promoting magic. He really has quite the story to tell. As magic, I will write the review on my Magic Seats website and post.

Read the full review here.

“The Woman In Me” – Britney Spears

Being a fan of auto-biographies, I am looking forward to completing this book as I am only a couple of chapters in at time of writing. I downloaded the kindle version as well as buying the hard copy for my book shelf.

I still have loads of books to read that are waiting on my kindle. Thinking of reading the Helen Lederer book next after completing Britney.

What autobiographies have you read that you can recommend?

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Martin Brophy is the creator of everythingelse.blog, a UK-based culture and entertainment blog covering film, television, live events and nostalgic media. With a background in customer service, logistics, IT and management, he brings a sharp eye for audience experience and value to every review. He is also the creator of Magic Seats, a dedicated content channel spotlighting UK magic shows and performers.

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