I wrote my first book aged 41 years old and had it published when I was 42. As I approach my fifth, I thought I might be in a bit of niche club in terms of ‘late starters’, but to read that Norman Giller wrote his first one at the age of 38 and has just completed his 100th, not only gives me hope, but also acts as a massive inspiration to all future word-smiths.
The format of “Headlines, Deadlines, All My Life,” is written in a “Skip & Dip,” style, as coined by Giller. The book is made up of a series of short anecdotes dating back from Giller’s birth, right the way through to present day, and I challenge anyone not to find a batch of stories relevant to their life, time period or sporting interest. Personally, I read the whole bloody lot! In fact, I wasn’t even tempted to skip or dip – it was more a case of read, read and read some more. I finished the book in a few days and was disappointed when it came to an end. Here’s a taster of what I loved about it.
If you like East London colour rising to the top of a black and white page, then a dose of the Krays will keep you happy. If it’s jazz that keeps you interested, then try a bit of Ronnie Scott. And if sport is your thing – then you are in for a big treat, as Giller shines a torch into previously unseen corners. Jimmy Greaves, Mohamad Ali, Bobby Moore, Our Enry (Cooper), amongst a plethora of others feature.
The historical facts and stats Giller brings to the surface during this nostalgic cruise will also have you saying with some delight, “Really!”. The journey down Fleet Street, Boxing News in the 1960’s and memoirs of a freelance genius, were carefully crafted and explains the foundation behind a man who can write 100 books. I recommend it as a Christmas stocking filler.
His last four lines in the book encapsulate him perfectly as a man:
“I have been a man of words
And a man of my word
And that is my final Word
It’s been fun”
Thank you for sharing your memoirs Norman. The nostalgic medley of anecdotes were inspirational, emotional and at times classically comical. I look forward to reading 101……
