newishpuritan's review against another edition
3.0
I read this because I saw Frank Sidebottom many times at Liverpool Polytechnic in the late 80s. Jon Ronson played keyboards in his band throughout this period - but I can't even really remember a band. All my attention was obviously on Frank, who sang, lectured about 'space' or 'puppets', or acted pantomimes like 'Bobbinson Crusoe'.
This is a simple, straightforward account by Ronson, rather light on detail (and the last part is a brief survey of other 'outsider' musical acts). It's poor value, since it's only a few thousand words. But it's affectionate and generous.
In retrospect, it's difficult to explain Frank's appeal - who exactly were the intended audience? He was quite childish and innocent - he studiously avoided innuendo or obscenity - but I can't imagine children enjoying the act. Maybe he was ideal for student bars: places poised between childhood and adulthood.
This is a simple, straightforward account by Ronson, rather light on detail (and the last part is a brief survey of other 'outsider' musical acts). It's poor value, since it's only a few thousand words. But it's affectionate and generous.
In retrospect, it's difficult to explain Frank's appeal - who exactly were the intended audience? He was quite childish and innocent - he studiously avoided innuendo or obscenity - but I can't imagine children enjoying the act. Maybe he was ideal for student bars: places poised between childhood and adulthood.
bookchew's review against another edition
4.0
My favorites: Jon Ronson and Frank Sidebottom. A treat. And a quick read.
hanne842's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
5.0
finlaaaay's review against another edition
4.0
Not Ronson's best, but I had just watched the movie of Frank and wanted to hear the true story of it. It's pretty short so not a huge investment to listen. I prefer his investigative stuff but this was good.
dieforthestars's review against another edition
5.0
i love this guy so much this is the best book ever i wish i couldve met him he wouldve been so fun to talk to i miss you frank sidebottom i need to go visit the statue of him immediately he was such a guy