Barbara Parker is crowned Miss Blackpool and keeps the honor for a few minutes. She realizes it's time to get out of the small town and try to conquer London. With a new name, Sophie Straw hits a casting call with her comedic talents (and other assets) blazing and becomes the lead in "Barbara (and Jim", a comedy series on the BBC.
Hornby explores Sophie's stardom, the writers, the producer who's in love with Sophie, the lead actor Clive who thinks he loves Sophie, and the magazine writer who's been loyal to covering Sophie's rise.
The story moves along briskly, the humor is light, and we enjoy a "group of people who are funny, if flawed, and illuminates their deep connections, complicated relationships, and wise humanity." (cover blurb)
This is a fun, quick read. Nick Hornby did not disappoint.
This sounds like a good one. I liked the movie About a Boy. I might have to give this a try. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteThat was a movie as well, wasn't it? I did really like the other two films.
ReplyDeleteBarbara Streisand was in "funny girl" but it was based on the Broadway show about comedienne Fanny Brice. So, Nick's book is totally new - just has the same title.
DeleteNow that Alex asked, was this a Barbara Streisand movie? I could be totally off. Regardless, it sounds delightful.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Joanne. I hope you're well.
The original funny girl was based on Broadway - a show about comedienne Fanny Brice. Nick's book is totally new.
DeleteI loved High Fidelity and this sounds like another good read.
ReplyDelete