Life of Michael

Reviews / Votes

For the last 30 years, Michael Palin has occupied a unique position in both British television and the international media. It is well known that the Americans took to Monty Python just as enthusiastically as the Brits. Since changing the face of British comedy (along with John Cleese et al), his career has gone from strength to strength - children's books, feature films such as A Fish Called Wanda, and (most notably) his engagingly shambolic travelogues which attracted massive audiences and produced a series of books that regularly topped the bestseller lists. The mention of his name brings a smile to the lips of most booksellers. This is the official biography, so no untoward revelations are to be expected. But as a celebration of Michael Palin's life, it very effectively conjures up the personality and dry wit of this much-loved figure, along with his apparent artlessness that conceals a hard professionalism. The book is illustrated with 70 photographs, including exclusive private photos from Palin's own collection. No doubt the Christmas catalogues will be looking for this one to do as well as the subject's own books - the sales are not likely to be in that league, but such is the affection in which Palin is held, this one is likely to sell very well.