Things Ain't What They Used to be - Philip Glenister

~ The Author ~ Philip Glenister, aka the Gene Genie (DCI Gene Hunt in Life on Mars), is on The List so when I spotted this book in the library I just had to read it! Philip Glenister is most famous for playing Gene Hunt in Life on Mars/ Ashes to Ashes but you may also have seen him in Calendar Girls, Cranford, The Other Bolyen Girl, Demons and others. I think what draws me to him is his ability to deliver lines with wit and a bit of brashness which fits the character he is playing. Philip Glenister brings some of this wit and brashness to his writing, and yes there is the swearing and mannerisms I'd associate with him, for example "...maybe that's why ...  Read the complete review

As readers to my reviews will know, I enjoyed watching Life on Mars, and the character of DCI Gene Hunt, played by Philip Glenister. Philip Glenister really enjoyed playing this character and it was a reminder of his early life, watching cop shows like The Sweeney, and also, of listening to the music of the time. Following on his successes in Life on Mars, and the sequel, Ashes to Ashes, Philip Glenister released a book in time for Christmas, called 'things ain't what they used to be' (excuse the lack of capitalisation, as this is how it is written). The book is a gentle trip down memory lane for Philip, and compares various components to life in the 70's and ...  Read the complete review