The novelization of the film (Porridge: The Inside Story - Paul Ableman)

Member Name: Robmods

Product:	Porridge: The Inside Story - Paul Ableman
Date:	31/05/09 (5 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Amusing dialogue and inventive structure

Disadvantages: -

After the Porridge television series came to an end, and after the only series of Going Straight, the post-prison spin-off was aired, a film version of Porridge finally made it to the big screen. This book is the novelization of that film, written by Paul Albeman, a freelance writer with no association to the television series.

The book is written in the form of a memoir by Norman Fletcher himself, and at times even refers to the difficulty of selling such a low-key book when compared to the rousing criminal stories of fiction. This style is very successful and allows for Fletcher's sharp remarks and prison humour to invigorate all parts of the story.

The tale of an attempt to break out of prison by means of a charity football match, and Fletcher's attempt to break back in are a useful framework for the real heart of the book, the character interaction between the prisoners and the guards.

Overall I found this book a surprisingly enjoyable romp that has aged very well over the last 30 years.

Summary: An excellent piece of fiction