One Flew into the Cuckoo's Egg

I have read and reread this book several times over the last few months and I may have to read it again a few times more. I have read all of Bill's books over the years and being a fellow birder, chuckled and roared over his writing. Written in the same unpretentious style as his other volumes, this is a more general autobiography that covers Bill's early life, his rise into fame and, of course, his illness that has been misinterpreted in my opinion by the media in general. His passion for wildlife- birds in particular- is all all too evident here, but takes more of a back seat and his childhood and later life takes precedence.My overall impression is that the author is a good man at heart, but there is an incredible sadness that is written between the lines of this book that is never truly stated openly as such, but nevertheless, pervades from start to finish. There are few laugh out lines in this autobiography, indeed Bill's comic tendencies are tempered by some very serious moments. The self- interview towards the end of the book can appear very self indulgent at times, however it is very revealing about the man himself and is worth sticking with.I learned a great deal about Bill Oddie from this book and whilst it may not be an easy read at times, it is highly engaging with the reader at the same time. If you want a book concentrating on Bill's birding exploits, then don't buy this: give yourself a treat by buying " Gone Birding" which is probably my favourite birding book. However if you want to know more about the man behind the Goodies, the writer, broadcaster and the wildlife TV presenter, then get this book: it will dispel many preconceptions. A very brave book, Bill; you have my eternal admiration.

The section concerning his mental health was interesting, as was the story of his upbringing but although it states quite categorically that this is not a bird book - well eventually that's what it becomes. Sorry Bill I wanted to know about the Goodies.

I enjoyed the book , its a bit quirky and very much as I expect Bill Oddie really is and because I am a similar age to Bill Oddie some of his reminiscences are strangely familiar but in a "I'd forgot about that". He has not had an easy life and his book was very honest about that. Perhaps an alternative title for this book could be Coping with Life's Ups & Downs but still having fun.Good luck to you Bill and keep taking the pills.

I am quite a fan of Bill Oddie. From his days with the Goodies, plus appearances in other comedy excursions, I found him quite an affable character. I was therefore quite interested when news of his autobiography was announced.I was not disappointed and indeed pleasantly surprised.Bill Oddie comes across as a particularly honest individual. He states several times that he has no, or vague recollections of many times in his life. He does not insult the reader by padding out the book with fiction as has been the case with some books I have read in the past. He is a most interesting character, with a relatively unremarkable background.If you like a good read, this is well worth a try. (The Amazon price is also highly affordable!)

I bought this book as I had read a couple of Bill's books before and enjoyed them. This was an altogether better experiance though, in a good way, I hasten to add!! from the first page I was tansported back to my own childhood and everything tied to it. He talks with a strong and detailed memory, making me recall with both fondness and fear,my own upbrining. His description of his Mum and her illness was harrowing and moving at the same time. Not sparing himself at all. in short, far,farbetter than i was hopeing for and i shall avidly search other books by thjis wonderful, down to Earth chap.

No as good as it could have been

It's a book!! I am reading it!Great Autobiography at a great price.Good condition.

Not finished it yet but a compulsive read Bill really opens up about his up and down life if you like Bill you will love this if you don't like him don't buy it (I love him )