The Goon Show, Volume 4: My Knees Have Fallen Off! : Book Review

"The Goon Show Volume 4" is a highly entertaining compilation of episodes from the famous radio comedy series, written by various authors and credited as "Not a Book." This volume features four classic episodes that showcase the hilarious adventures of beloved characters such as Neddie Seagoon, Eccles, and Bluebottle, among others.

The collection includes episodes like "The Case of the Missing CD Plates," where the Goons embark on a mission to recover stolen CD plates that hold great importance to national security. As always, their escapades are filled with whimsical antics and unforgettable one-liners. In "The Great Bank Robbery," the lovable gang hatches a plan to rob a bank entirely made of gold, leading to comical attempts to execute the perfect heist.

Listeners are taken on a wild journey in "The Mystery of the Fake Neddie Seagoons" as the gang tries to unravel the mystery of multiple impostors pretending to be Neddie Seagoon. This episode is filled with ludicrous twists and turns that keep the audience engaged throughout. Finally, "The Pevensey Bay Disaster" plunges the Goons into the chaos and mayhem of an impending catastrophe in the seaside town of Pevensey Bay.

The writing in this collection is clever and the dialogue is fast-paced, capturing the unique humor that made The Goon Show a beloved comedic series. The episodes are brought to life by the talented cast, including Spike Milligan, Peter Sellers, and Harry Secombe, who deliver each line with impeccable comedic timing. The combination of the sharp writing and stellar performances makes this collection a delight to listen to, and a must-have for fans of classic comedy.

Overall, "The Goon Show Volume 4" is a delightful compilation that perfectly captures the zany and irreverent spirit of the original radio series. With its absurd plotlines, unforgettable characters, and side-splitting humor, this book guarantees plenty of laughter and entertainment. Whether you're a devoted fan of The Goon Show or new to its comedic genius, this collection is certain to keep you entertained and laughing from start to finish.

What are readers saying?

"The Goon Show Volume 4" by NOT A BOOK is a compilation of scripts from the renowned British radio show, "The Goon Show." The reviews for this book have been a blend of positive and negative, with readers having varied opinions about its comedic value and readability.

Numerous readers find the book highly amusing and enjoyable, praising the humor and its ability to evoke nostalgia. They mention that the scripts successfully capture the wit and absurdity of "The Goon Show," a beloved program from the 1950s and 1960s. People who are familiar with the original broadcasts often find themselves bursting into laughter, delighted to relive the experience of tuning in to the show. Many commend NOT A BOOK for compiling these classic scripts into a single volume.

However, there are also readers who struggle to grasp the book's content, which they find confusing and difficult to follow. They highlight that the humor is heavily rooted in British references and wordplay, creating a barrier for those unacquainted with the show or British culture. Some readers feel overwhelmed by the fast-paced dialogue and numerous characters, making it a challenging read. Consequently, they suggest that the book may be better suited for fans who are already familiar with "The Goon Show" and its material.

Some readers appreciate the nostalgic element of the book, as it transports them back to a bygone era of comedy. They joyfully revisit the quirky characters and bizarre situations that made "The Goon Show" so beloved. For them, the book serves as a delightful trip down memory lane, reigniting the fondness for the golden age of radio.

On the other hand, there are readers who believe that the book fails to capture the essence of the original radio show's humor. They argue that the comedic brilliance and timing of "The Goon Show" relied heavily on the performances and sound effects, which are absent in written form. Consequently, these readers find the book lacking in comparison to the actual broadcasts, as it fails to replicate the same level of comedic brilliance.

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