Silent Comedy is a terrific history of props and pratfalls...I'm a better person for having read this

***** Such is Merton's enthusiasm that his story grips throughout.

An awestruck and knowledgeable introduction to Hollywood's earliest funsters...lovingly researched

Penned with genuine passion...both well crafted and carefully researched

He makes some striking biographical connections the rest of us have missed ... he certainly knows his subject.

He brings an insider's insight to this heartfelt study ... it's a good sign when such a substantial book leaves you wanting still more

Fascinating, insightful

Meticulous ... beautifully illustrated, with period stills and playbills, and he decorates this conscientious survey with fascinating first-hand experience

An unabashed labour of love ... The most compelling aspect ... is his tracing of the silent clowns' creative rivalries

Generously illustrated ... definitely a book for reading... such is Merton's exhaustive affection, you'll feel a pang when the talkies come in

Beautifully produced and contains some remarkable illustrations ... as a professional, he provides plenty of insight