Humphrey Lyttelton (1921–2008)

I'm a big fan of Humph on I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue, so when I discovered from a friend's LT library that he had recently published this memoir, I put it on my wishlist, and received it as a late birthday present.

I started the book on Monday night. Only read a few pages. Didn't really get into it at all. I tried again on Tuesday night. Got up to page 14. I really wasn't getting on with the stream of consciousness thing - no chapters, one anecdote after another, jumping from place to place. show more I started to despair that I just wouldn't "get" this book. But this afternoon, I sat down with a big pint mug of tea and started to read. I read solidly for an hour and a half, and got into the swing of things. After 100 pages, I stopped for dinner, but soon returned to finish the book (it's not long, 170 pages).

It was amusing in places, a few interesting anecdotes, and I learnt some stuff about jazz. It really didn't tickle me the way Humph does on ISIHAC, though. I would recommend it to fans of the man, but make sure you sit down and read it in one or two sittings - it just doesn't work as something to read in snippets. show less

This small volume is a miscellany of items related to the famous game, with many amusing or interesting anecdotes about the game throughout history, famous players and famous games. Not much about the (admittedly) complex rules--for that the dedicated player should refer elsewhere--but still an entertaining and useful book.

An essential guide to the game for anyone who wishes to learn more about the history of this very British pursuit. From the newcomer to the seasoned veteran, this book will change the way you play.

"As I have said before, in the context of food, the touring musician is as likely to become a connoisseur of the bad things of life as of the good" (85).