The official biography of a national treasure – now in paperback.
“Fred Dibnah’s World” celebrates the life and work of Britain’s best known steeplejack and national treasure, Fred Dibnah. Before his death in 2004, Fred presented many popular series, including “Magnificent Monuments”, “The Age of Steam” and “Made in Britain”, all of which attracted viewers in their millions. “Fred” is the companion to the 12-part “BBC2″ series celebrating the life of this great man, which combines highlights from some of Dibnah’s classic programmes with previously unseen footage. The book can of course go much further than the series, including an extraordinarily account of Fred’s childhood which evokes a lost England and our great industrial heritage. Fred’s passion for the glories of the Victorian age and his fascination with the landscape he grew up in, plus his admiration for the craftsmen and labourers who made it all possible, captivate us on every page. Fred is the personification of everything that made England great in the first place. And this is a glorious tribute to a man whom millions came to love.
Preview
Details
Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Corgi Books; New Ed edition (1 Mar 2007)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0552154881
ISBN-13: 9780552154888
Product Dimensions: 19.8 x 12.6 x 3.4 cm
This well-written biography trully captures the spirit of Fred’s life and I believe Fred would have liked it. This book includes some of his frustrations and many achievements. The only thing missing is smell of Fred’s oil soaked cloth cap and a (couple) of pints of Guiness.
I enjoyed this biography very much but felt it was a little long and slightly repetitive. It also helps if you have some appreciation of steam engines and other mechanicals as it gets just a little technical from time to time. However, the author does bring out Fred’s essential warmth and enthusiasm. All told it is certainly worth reading even if, unlike me, you don’t come from Bolton.
It really is a nice read, the author, I feel, really brings Fred’s character into the book, yes there are a few repetative bits, but it’s all by the by really. What really comes accross is Fred’s drive, passion and ambition not forgetting his sense of humour. I for one thoroughly enjoyed reading it and whole heartedly recommend it. Time for a pint…..
I was given this book for Christmas as I’ve always been a Fred fan but never really a book lover. I started it Christmas Day and hardly put it down! It is compulsive reading.
It is written in Fred language which makes it easy to follow and the last few chapters tell you all the things that never showed up in the TV series. A good read and definitely worth buying.