I’ve been on a reading binge for the past week or so, and discovered some fabulous new books to recommend.
Monty Python’s Tunisian Holiday, by Kim “Howard” Johnson
Johnson was a young kid in the mid-70’s when he started a fan zine for Monty Python, a group slowly emerging in America. He started a correspondence with a few of the members, became better acquainted, and by the late 70’s found himself in Tunisia on the set of Life of Brian. I read half of Michael Palin’s diary, so I already knew the Python guys were pretty awesome off-screen, and this book only reiterates that. Johnson was on set for six weeks, and has practically daily updates of what went on – what was filmed, what was eventually cut, how the cast and crew spent their days off, things like that. Johnson was an extra, and played a Roman soldier, a peasant, and was a stand-in for a few of the Pythons. You can tell he had loads of fun being a part of a comedy masterpiece. A real joy to read for a fan of anything British and silly.
Don’t Stop Believin’, Brian Raftery
A book on karaoke. Yes, way. I wasn’t expecting much about this book on one man’s journey into the world of karaoke, but was very pleasantly surprised. Not only does he go into his personal history with karaoke, but he also details the origins and evolution of karaoke in both Japan and the world. It’s really fascinating! I’ve done some live metal karaoke, and hold a special place in my heart for it. So does Raftery. He made me want to go out NOW and find some dingy karaoke bar and sing my heart out to Dio and Joan Jett like the good old days. And chances are the book will have the same effect on you. I dare you to not burst into song while you read. (I did a few times, including to “Raspberry Beret.”)
Under Their Thumb, Bill German
A real fanboy success story I can appreciate. German (like the aforementioned Johnson) created a fan zine for his favorite group The Rolling Stones. A few short years down the road, and he’s buddies with Keith Richards and Ron Wood, going to their houses, visiting with the Stones backstage, getting to know the crew, getting to know all the nitty gritty secrets all fans want to know and then regret knowing… it’s a fascinating story. He’s an excellent writer, and puts in all the details a person wants to know. While I’m definitely on the Beatles side of the debate, I’ve gained sympathy for the Stones side. This book made go out and get a copy of Sticky Fingers. But Mick Jagger is a total jerk.
But Enough About Me, Jancee Dunn
A reread, but too fun nonetheless. Jersey girl (poofy hair included) lands a job at Rolling Stone magazine. This is what I wish my life was like! Dunn alternates stories of her quirky family life (is there any other kind?) and rising in the ranks of Rolling Stone and MTV2 with short advice essays on topics such as “How To Control the Panic When Your Subject Is Absurdly Famous” and “Dirt Gathering: Shortcuts to Finding the Least Loyal Person in an Entourage.” Really fascinating stuff. And as Dunn was voted Class Clown back in high school, hilariously written as well. For me it was totally worth it for the reading of her encounter with Dolly Parton, and learning that Ron Wood washes his own socks in the bathroom when he travels.
