Touring Scotland Book

My bookclub suggested (along with the 'official' book to read over the summer holidays) we all choose an autobiography to read. I had 'Billy' on my bookshelf and decided on that. I thought I may be a convert to biographies/autobiographies when delving into the first few chapters. These conveyed an eye-opening insight into the poor and harsh tenement living in Glasgow, Scotland where Billy grew up.

Unfortunately, for me the book was spoilt (slightly) by the writer, Billy's wife, Pamela Stephenson's constant name-dropping during the more recent parts of Billy's life which intermingled with stories of his childhood and earlier years. It seemed impossible for her to mention where they were without stating the famous people they spoke to at another famous person's party, who they spent time with at dinner parties and even which famous person one of their children was sick over on a plane ... it became very annoying. (This was a shame as I was rooting for Pamela to win in the 'Strictly Come Dancing' series recently on the TV!!)

The book was written a few years ago now so perhaps she felt the need to confirm both her and Billy's fame at the time. Nevertheless, I found the book interesting and, having not particularly considered Billy's work prior to this, I am now a huge fan! He really is a very talented but damaged guy who has battled throughout his whole life. I would recommend this book. (I think probably us British may enjoy it more than our overseas friends as he is clearly one of our great exports and a little loyalty may come into play.) None-the-less I think all can enjoy this book.

But am I a convert to biographies and autobiographies? I'm sure I'll read more but I'm not there quite yet!