Author:Norman Wisdom
Norman Wisdom's early years could easily have come straight from the pages of a Dickens novel. Left by their frightened mother, ill-treated by a brutal father, Norman and his brother were forced to fend for themselves, sleeping rough in London and stealing food to survive. This is a rags to riches tale of the man Charlie Chaplin said would take his mantle and who went on to make millions laugh around the world for over five decades. Here are the hardships, tragedies and triumphs that gave him his inspiration. From the days working the seasons at Scarborough, to the unforgettable and endearing character Norman Pitkin - the little man in a tight fitting suit, read of his rapid climb up the showbiz ladder.
A classic rags-to-riches saga
—— The SpectatorThe woman who shared his final days reveals the tragic truth about Dudley Moore
—— Daily MailAn essential read for anyone who had fallen beneath the charm of Moore ... a unique glimpse into the torments and pleasure of a man whose talents would slowly be taken away by the hand of illness.
—— Manchester Eveing NewsRena and her family supported and cared for Dudley until his death ... a moving account of the friendship
—— Choice MagazineRevealing biography of a multi-talented funnyman by a close friend who helped him in his final years
—— UncutAn honest and moving account
—— Glasgow HeraldWhat happened to Moore is all here in harrowing detail
—— Mail on SundayThere are moments of laugh-out-loud humour
—— Scotland on SundayRena Fruchter reveals the untold story in a loving but unflinching portrait
—— Evening HeraldThe generosity of the family, especially Rena's long-suffering husband Brian, is deeply moving
—— Sunday ExpressAn unabashed eulogy to a man she was evidently devoted to
—— TelegraphClearly Fruchter had a huge affection for Moore but she knew his shortcomings
—— Scottish Sunday HeraldAn intelligent, honest and moving portrait
—— Songs of Praise MagazineThe answers are all here, neatly scattered through this mercifully mid-sized biog. Rena Fruchter, herself blessed with comedic skills, delivers you the Dud she knew
—— Manchester Evening NewsAn honest and moving account of his later years
—— Glasgow Herald