My Name Is Daphne Fairfax
05/06/2009 … Arthur Smith’s been a comedian, binman, playwright, Parisian bohemian, unofficial tour guide, Radio 4 presenter, TV host, failed punk singer and mayor of Balham…
Latest Books
Reviews of books about comedy, including biographies of comedians old and new, and (occasionally) books by comedians. To have a book considered for review, send a copy to Chortle, 112 Norman Road, London, E11 4RL.
Fri 05 June 2009
Fri 01 May 2009
Shtick Shift: Jewish Humor In The 21st Century
01/05/2009 … It is hard to overstate the influence Jewish people have had on modern comedy The second-generation immigrants who became Borscht Belt tummlers pretty much invented…
Fri 03 April 2009
Mon 02 February 2009
Mon 05 January 2009
Book review: The Richard Beckinsale Story
05/01/2009 … Any talented celebrity who dies young is likely to be remembered with fondness – especially those who found fame bringing laughter.
Mon 29 December 2008
Book review: Tony Hancock, The Definitve Biography
29/12/2008 … Perfectly fitting the enduring ‘tears of a clown’ archetype, the morbid tragedy of Tony Hancock’s life holds endless fascination for biographers.
Tue 23 December 2008
Last-minute stocking stuffers
Round-up of a few Christmas comedy books
23/12/2008 … Gavin & Stacey: From Barry To BillericayA well put-together tie-in to the hit of the moment from original writers James Corden and Ruth Jones, this is presented…
Tue 11 November 2008
Book review: Prime Minister, You Wanted To See Me: A History Of Week Ending
by Ian Greaves and Justin Lewis
11/11/2008 … This new history of the well-remembered, if not always well-loved Radio 4 topical comedy show Week Ending landed on the doormat with a satisfying thud.