Take back the novelty socks to Marks & Spencer. Log off the Homebase website without proceeding to checkout. The release of the Now Show Book of World Records has solved your festive woes – your Dad’s Christmas present has been found.
The team behind the hit Radio 4 show – Jon Holmes, Steve Punt and Mock the Week’s Hugh Dennis – have not, however, been out measuring exceedingly tall men or counting up the number of pegs someone can stick to their face (you’ll have to grab a copy of the proper Guinness affiliated one for those sorts of facts). But have combined with Marcus Brigstocke and Mitch Benn to create a sillier version. So if you like your facts a little more on the fictitious side then this is the book for you.
The hardback is split into sections like a comedy encyclopedia with everything from Arts and Literature to the Natural World. Under these umbrellas the book covers a range of subjects from the most ubiquitous yet vacuous TV presenter (Tess Daly narrowly beats out Fearne Cotton) to the worst night of viewing ever on the Sky Planner (Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps, in case you were wondering.)
Accessibility is not an issue – even for Radio 4 virgins – as it’s essentially observational comedy. The comedy itself, however, is a little hit or miss. Fortunately, each section is short and sweet enough to just flick a page until you find something which appeals. The facts, stats and famous quotes are interesting and complement the silliness while the coverage of MPs’ expenses (if you’re not bored of reading about this) and swine flu (or this) at least makes the book current. And, most importantly, your Dad will love it. I know what I’ll be doing with my press copy…
Fraser Wilson
