Why did you write this thing? (Why Do I Say These Things? - Jonathan Ross)

Member Name: mumto3

Product:	Why Do I Say These Things? - Jonathan Ross
Date:	05/08/09 (26 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: An easy ready - mildly amusing in places

Disadvantages: no structure - not what I was expecting

Having run out of books to read recently I went rummaging in my father's bookcase in the hope of finding something that wasn't based around football or the SAS. I eventually found Jonathan Ross's recent book Why do I say these things?

My father hadn't read the book yet but as I could find nothing else of interest he said I could borrow it.

I have been aware of Ross and his work for many years but wouldn't say I am a fan, I find him a little irritating and immature and just wish he would shut up most of the time. Anyway, I was desperate for something to read and my local library only opens three times a week so I took the book hoping it would be mildly entertaining.

Ross explains very early on in the book that he hasn't written an autobiography but just wanted to put together some amusing stories and anecdotes. This is basically an accurate explanation of the book but I found it a little confusing. It contained lots of stories from Ross' childhood but not in any particular order and it did contain stories about Ross' famous friends but Danny Baker is hardly big news.

I read the book quite quickly but wasn't left with any strong feelings one way of the other. I have no idea why it is called 'Why do I say these things?' because I can't remember any witty tales about Ross putting his foot in it. I was expecting maybe some back stage gossip from his Friday night chat show or interesting stories from one of the many Comic Relief shows he has been a part of. There were lots of stories about how to be a celebrity and how it changes your life which could be considered patronising.

The book didn't really follow any course or pattern and it wasn't a biography or a tell all celebrity exclusive or anything really. It's hard to say what it was and it never really got going and then it was over. Ross did explain what went on with the whole Andrew Sachs fiasco but to be honest that was all over the press for so long I was past caring.

My opinion of Ross hasn't really changed from reading the book but I know a little more about his family life and how he feels about his wife, children and family. I wouldn't say I didn't enjoy the book because it was an easy read but it was also instantly forgotten. I'm glad I didn't rush out to buy it and I think my Dad found in a bargain bucket somewhere so that's not too bad.

The book is currently available on www.amazon.co.uk for £3.84 in paperback, £11.39 in Hardback and £8.22 on audio CD.

If you are a fan of Ross' I'm sure you would enjoy the book and I would recommend it.

Summary: An ok book but nothing special