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how tom holland Eclipsed his dad
The story of how a kid dances his way from London's West End to Hollywood and overtakes his 'celebrity' dad on his way. Dominic Holland is this 'celebrity' dad - a professional stand-up comedian and author. He has appeared on television many times including The Royal Variety Show and Have I Got News For You. He has had his own award winning BBC Radio Four series, The Small World of Dominic Holland. A published author, journalist and writer for other famous comedians... So no slouch himself then. But his eldest son, Tom, played Billy in BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL in London's West End and then was cast in the leading role of Lucas in the film, THE IMPOSSIBLE, now on general release in cinemas worldwide. As well as stand-up comedy, fortunately for this story, Dominic Holland has also taken a crack at Hollywood with his writing and compared to his son, with very contrasting results. Tom flies back and forth to LA to accept and give out awards while his dad still treads the boards and in smaller and less salubrious venues that most egos could bear. "How tom holland eclipsed his dad" is an extraordinary true story and a complete fluke. Without a drama lesson in site, let alone a stage school, how a young boy gets himself long listed for an Academy Award and gets to meet and mix with Hollywood's glitterati is an interesting tale on its own - but the story is hilarious when set against the endeavours of his dad. Written with great affection by a dad who is much more proud than he is bemused, this book will appeal to any parent who wants their kid to prevail and to any kid who casually dreams of becoming a star themself.
337 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
42 people are currently reading
1399 people want to read
About the author
Dominic Holland
20 books165 followersDominic Holland has been a professional stand-up comedian for over 20 years and has become one of the most regarded and respected comedians of his generation.
‘The UK’s master of observational comedy ’ The Sunday Times‘A top notch stand-up who everyone should see’ The Daily Telegraph
But Dominic’s favourite quote comes from the late Bob Monkhouse – ‘Dominic Holland is the UK’s funniest not-yet-famous comedian.’ Rest assured Bob, Dominic is still working hard on the becoming properly famous bit.
He has just published his third novel, ‘A Man's Life’ as an ebook and his first non-fiction ebook – ‘How Tom Holland Eclipsed his Dad.'
Dominic has made countless TV appearances including The Royal Variety Performance, recorded an award winning radio series for BBC R4. Twice honoured at the Edinburgh Festival by the Perrier panel. Won a comic heritage award and published two comic novels and a raft of short stories.
His first ever downloaded stand-up show is available shortly – ‘dominic holland is alive in tring’
‘The UK’s master of observational comedy ’ The Sunday Times‘A top notch stand-up who everyone should see’ The Daily Telegraph
But Dominic’s favourite quote comes from the late Bob Monkhouse – ‘Dominic Holland is the UK’s funniest not-yet-famous comedian.’ Rest assured Bob, Dominic is still working hard on the becoming properly famous bit.
He has just published his third novel, ‘A Man's Life’ as an ebook and his first non-fiction ebook – ‘How Tom Holland Eclipsed his Dad.'
Dominic has made countless TV appearances including The Royal Variety Performance, recorded an award winning radio series for BBC R4. Twice honoured at the Edinburgh Festival by the Perrier panel. Won a comic heritage award and published two comic novels and a raft of short stories.
His first ever downloaded stand-up show is available shortly – ‘dominic holland is alive in tring’
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
June 5, 2018
Dominic Holland is an intriguing writer. Knowing how big of a Spider-Man fan I was, a friend recommended this book to me. A book written about my favorite actor and his family? Sounds perfect! And turns out, it was.
Mr. Holland's comedic style clearly shows in his writing. He is a captivating storyteller, and boy does he have a story to tell. The book follows his ventures in comedy and the film business, as well as the beginning of his oldest son's journey to becoming a well-known film star. As an aspiring writer myself, of both novels and screenplays, I was intrigued to read about Mr. Holland's experiences in the business.
Through this novel, you will see a father's true, genuine love for and pride in his family. This book has a message of hope, which is why it is so universal, and I would recommend it to anyone.
Mr. Holland's comedic style clearly shows in his writing. He is a captivating storyteller, and boy does he have a story to tell. The book follows his ventures in comedy and the film business, as well as the beginning of his oldest son's journey to becoming a well-known film star. As an aspiring writer myself, of both novels and screenplays, I was intrigued to read about Mr. Holland's experiences in the business.
Through this novel, you will see a father's true, genuine love for and pride in his family. This book has a message of hope, which is why it is so universal, and I would recommend it to anyone.
January 30, 2013
This was a fascinating and hilarious read. "Eclipsed" is a story about how perseverance, talent, hard work and dumb luck can help you achieve even your wildest dreams. Or in the case of 'famous' Brit comedian Dominic Holland, if it doesn't quite work out, you can always pass those traits on to your child and watch them reach the stars before they even hit puberty.
Mr. Holland, a noted novelist and stand-up comedian from London, pens the true tale about how he watched his son become wildly successful at a young age in the very show business industry he has mucked around in for the better part of two decades. He takes great pains to add levity, humor and humbleness to the story. One might think this is a selfish attempt to gain fame and fortune at the expense of his son. This is the not the case at all. It is part doting, yes, (who wouldn't with a supremely talented offspring like that), but it is also part auto-biography with more brutal honesty and self-deprecating humor than can be expected from anyone with selfish intentions.
I think we've all dreamed of being a star on stage or screen. Of being seen at an otherwise inconsequential local performance and being asked to audition for the title role of a hit musical or Hollywood film. And that's what drew me into this story. My dreams didn't come true but it was thrilling to read about the incredible journey that young Tom has taken, through the eyes of his father who shares those very same dreams.
Mr. Holland, a noted novelist and stand-up comedian from London, pens the true tale about how he watched his son become wildly successful at a young age in the very show business industry he has mucked around in for the better part of two decades. He takes great pains to add levity, humor and humbleness to the story. One might think this is a selfish attempt to gain fame and fortune at the expense of his son. This is the not the case at all. It is part doting, yes, (who wouldn't with a supremely talented offspring like that), but it is also part auto-biography with more brutal honesty and self-deprecating humor than can be expected from anyone with selfish intentions.
I think we've all dreamed of being a star on stage or screen. Of being seen at an otherwise inconsequential local performance and being asked to audition for the title role of a hit musical or Hollywood film. And that's what drew me into this story. My dreams didn't come true but it was thrilling to read about the incredible journey that young Tom has taken, through the eyes of his father who shares those very same dreams.
September 24, 2018
Reading these stories is like getting to know Dominic Holland and his family, slowly, over the course of several months. When you get to know someone in real life, you hear their stories out of order, and have to piece the narrative together for yourself. While I’m used to this in a real life relationship, it’s very odd in a book. I can’t help but wonder if it was an intentional choice, or a lack of editorial help?
The individual stories / chapters are charming and funny, and make me wish I really *did* know this lovely family in real life.
The individual stories / chapters are charming and funny, and make me wish I really *did* know this lovely family in real life.
July 24, 2017
May contain Spoilers
I was surfing through Amazon searching for some Marvel merch and most recently some about Spiderman and was shown in my suggestions Eclipse by Dominic Holland.
After a short read through the summery I decided to buy it. I am not a fan of eBooks but my need to know what the book is all about was bigger as my hate against eReaders.
So I got it, took my tablet and start reading it. Four hours later I have read the last page.
I am not gonna lie. I wanted to know what Papa Holland is thinking about how his family life changed and to get to know more about Tom Holland start into show business.
If I start to like an artist I want to know more about them.
What I liked most about this book is that you can feel the love in this family. They may have had their ups and downs but they hold tight together. Plus Fortuna was by their side everytime they needed her most.
The epilogue starts with:
"How Tom Holland Eclipsed his dad? Is a shameless piece of opportunism written by a man who missed the fame boat and is now clawing his fingers bloody raw at the edifice of stardom."
I don't this sentence. I really don't. A proud father writes a book about his life, his family and how proud and grateful he is for all of them. There is nothing wrong about it.
I have two favorite parts.
The one is how the Holland's have dinner with Naomi Watts and Liev Schreiber. Such a cute story and all the boys are cute fanboys because Sabretooth is in t he same room as they are.
The other one is how Papa Holland describes his kids...
Tom = Nokia
Sam and Harry = Motorola & Ericson
Paddy = ... ? (I would love to know who he is)
It was a really nice read and made my rainy afternoon much better.
Plus I learned something:
Opportunities appear for us all. The skill to recognise them and to apply every fibre to exploit them.
I was surfing through Amazon searching for some Marvel merch and most recently some about Spiderman and was shown in my suggestions Eclipse by Dominic Holland.
After a short read through the summery I decided to buy it. I am not a fan of eBooks but my need to know what the book is all about was bigger as my hate against eReaders.
So I got it, took my tablet and start reading it. Four hours later I have read the last page.
I am not gonna lie. I wanted to know what Papa Holland is thinking about how his family life changed and to get to know more about Tom Holland start into show business.
If I start to like an artist I want to know more about them.
What I liked most about this book is that you can feel the love in this family. They may have had their ups and downs but they hold tight together. Plus Fortuna was by their side everytime they needed her most.
The epilogue starts with:
"How Tom Holland Eclipsed his dad? Is a shameless piece of opportunism written by a man who missed the fame boat and is now clawing his fingers bloody raw at the edifice of stardom."
I don't this sentence. I really don't. A proud father writes a book about his life, his family and how proud and grateful he is for all of them. There is nothing wrong about it.
I have two favorite parts.
The one is how the Holland's have dinner with Naomi Watts and Liev Schreiber. Such a cute story and all the boys are cute fanboys because Sabretooth is in t he same room as they are.
The other one is how Papa Holland describes his kids...
Tom = Nokia
Sam and Harry = Motorola & Ericson
Paddy = ... ? (I would love to know who he is)
It was a really nice read and made my rainy afternoon much better.
Plus I learned something:
Opportunities appear for us all. The skill to recognise them and to apply every fibre to exploit them.
February 18, 2020
I was asked to review this book by Lovereading.co.uk
What a great story, funny and good read - this was published in 2017 - don't know how this bypassed me.
This is the true story of a British comedian Dominic Holland - I was vaguely aware of this comedian as a stand up - no idea he is an accomplished author as well. This is a story of a family- two sides of a story - one the comedian and his eldest son ( for me although is more famous for playing Spiderman was the fact he was Billy in the West End Stage show Billy Elliot and I was mesmerised by his take on "Electricity")
Father on the tough comedy circuit life can be tough - but don't forget he was voted best newcomer in the 90s at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and has gone on to be a well known comedian - whilst his son Tom lands the role of Spiderman whilst his dad is in small theatres and halls.
Written will such admiration and wit
Thank you Dominic for allowing the publisher to send me a physical copy and signed too- I was touched.
This is an author I will be looking out for and looking to see if he is in a gig in the south west.
Recommended read and an author I recommend also- I am now seeking out other books.
What a great story, funny and good read - this was published in 2017 - don't know how this bypassed me.
This is the true story of a British comedian Dominic Holland - I was vaguely aware of this comedian as a stand up - no idea he is an accomplished author as well. This is a story of a family- two sides of a story - one the comedian and his eldest son ( for me although is more famous for playing Spiderman was the fact he was Billy in the West End Stage show Billy Elliot and I was mesmerised by his take on "Electricity")
Father on the tough comedy circuit life can be tough - but don't forget he was voted best newcomer in the 90s at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and has gone on to be a well known comedian - whilst his son Tom lands the role of Spiderman whilst his dad is in small theatres and halls.
Written will such admiration and wit
Thank you Dominic for allowing the publisher to send me a physical copy and signed too- I was touched.
This is an author I will be looking out for and looking to see if he is in a gig in the south west.
Recommended read and an author I recommend also- I am now seeking out other books.
February 20, 2013
“Eclipsed” is a true story written by the comedian Dominic Holland that tells us about the successes and struggles of his own career and also about the rising to stardom of his eldest son, the actor of “The Impossible” Tom Holland.
The author has the ability to keep things interesting describing the situations in a funny and honest way.
Above all it teaches every one of us a life lesson: Dominic Holland shows that although he had several setbacks while trying to achieve his dreams he hasn’t given up. He transmitted this positive way to confront difficulties to Tom, which contributed to his incredible success. Dominic Holland tries to transmit this to the reader too and he does that brilliantly.
The narrative is addictive; I personally couldn’t stop reading it. I literally laugh out loud reading this book.
I highly recommend it. It was worth every second I spent reading it.
The author has the ability to keep things interesting describing the situations in a funny and honest way.
Above all it teaches every one of us a life lesson: Dominic Holland shows that although he had several setbacks while trying to achieve his dreams he hasn’t given up. He transmitted this positive way to confront difficulties to Tom, which contributed to his incredible success. Dominic Holland tries to transmit this to the reader too and he does that brilliantly.
The narrative is addictive; I personally couldn’t stop reading it. I literally laugh out loud reading this book.
I highly recommend it. It was worth every second I spent reading it.
November 25, 2019
This was probably a great blog, but for a book there is too much jumping backwards and forwards in time, and there are a few anecdotes that take long detours and never get back to the point. The text is also riddled with random words and word order issues, you know, the kind of mistakes that tend to occur when you rewrite a sentence and forget to delete all of the previous one. In other words; the kind of mistakes that a spelling and grammar check can't help you with. Some thorough editing and proofreading would have improved the reading experience vastly.
Still, I enjoyed it very much; it is a sweet, warm and amusing story that is likely to put a smile on your face. And it certainly held my interest - this is the first book I've managed to finish since July! It is fascinating to discover how much luck, and also how much hard work, that has gone into Tom Holland's career, and I think the story is far from over. I hope a sequel is in the works.
Still, I enjoyed it very much; it is a sweet, warm and amusing story that is likely to put a smile on your face. And it certainly held my interest - this is the first book I've managed to finish since July! It is fascinating to discover how much luck, and also how much hard work, that has gone into Tom Holland's career, and I think the story is far from over. I hope a sequel is in the works.
December 29, 2019
I really enjoyed this book! It took me 4 months to get through because it’s nonfiction and not some suspense narrative. Essentially it’s just a book written by Dominic Holland retelling stories about his son Tom’s rise to fame. Starting with Billy Elliot all the way to his success with Marvel. This book was released in 2017 so if you are looking for the most recent Tom Holland gossip-this ain’t it. It brings you through auditions, encountering famous celebs, and people eventually forgetting that Dominic Holland was quite a successful comedian. It is light hearted and I think it’s a very unique family tale. As a HUGE Tom Holland fan...I approve.
March 23, 2020
Goodreads win, and I was sooooo excited about this one!
Most of the time, I receive with high expectations, then I get cut short. Not with this one. This is a story about a father and son, and what makes them who they are, together. It’s uplifting, hilarious, and brilliant. The author wrote me a kind letter, and I couldn’t have felt more blessed to own this copy. Thank you! It was a delightful read.
Most of the time, I receive with high expectations, then I get cut short. Not with this one. This is a story about a father and son, and what makes them who they are, together. It’s uplifting, hilarious, and brilliant. The author wrote me a kind letter, and I couldn’t have felt more blessed to own this copy. Thank you! It was a delightful read.
July 20, 2017
It's an amusing, lovely book that lets its readers glimpse behind the scenes of a world-renowned musical, an impressive film production and, perhaps most importantly, a family whose story is for the most part unbelievable and ridiculous in all its coincidences.
January 19, 2018
What an incredible book. Both heartwarming and funny, Dominic Holland approaches fatherhood in a unique light that shows just how much he cares for his sons (and wife as well). Eclipsed is a great read, and I cannot wait to share it with everyone I know.
July 29, 2022
This is my second time reading this book! Dominic Holland has interesting, unique insights into the world of comedy, film, and Hollywood and his skill as a comedian shines throughout this book. Dom's comparison of his own adventures and misadventures to the successes of his son, Tom Holland, is hilarious and yet you see, despite his jokes and depreciations, that he really is a proud dad and the bond between the Holland family is beautiful and strong.
The audiobook version is available through Electric Breeze Audio Productions and is definitely worth a listen as Dom's comedic genius (the word "genius" is used here specifically because it'll annoy Dom as he doesn't think that word should be applied to comedians) really shines through. The audiobook also has a wonderful added bonus in that each chapter ends with a discussion between Dom and Tom Holland where you get even more insights, jokes, and adventures.
I love it when authors narrate their own audiobooks, especially when they are skilled oral storytellers. I hope Dom goes on to record more audio versions of his books. After this, you can guarantee that I will buy and listen to every one!
The audiobook version is available through Electric Breeze Audio Productions and is definitely worth a listen as Dom's comedic genius (the word "genius" is used here specifically because it'll annoy Dom as he doesn't think that word should be applied to comedians) really shines through. The audiobook also has a wonderful added bonus in that each chapter ends with a discussion between Dom and Tom Holland where you get even more insights, jokes, and adventures.
I love it when authors narrate their own audiobooks, especially when they are skilled oral storytellers. I hope Dom goes on to record more audio versions of his books. After this, you can guarantee that I will buy and listen to every one!
October 30, 2019
A heartwarming and hilarious read. Eclipsed tells the fascinating true story of how UK comedian Dominic Holland found himself being upstaged by his eldest son, Tom Holland - probably best known for playing the web-slinging Marvel superhero Spider-Man.
I stumbled across this book by chance and absolutely loved it. Essentially two stories in one, the tale veers between Dominic's career on the comedy circuit and young Tom's first forays into the showbiz world of stage and film.
As a musical lover, I was really interested to discover more about what it takes to be cast in the title role of the West End musical, Billy Elliot, and was equally gripped by the behind-the-scenes account of the Oscar-winning film, The Impossible. Witty and painfully honest, Eclipsed is both intriguing and really funny. A great read.
I stumbled across this book by chance and absolutely loved it. Essentially two stories in one, the tale veers between Dominic's career on the comedy circuit and young Tom's first forays into the showbiz world of stage and film.
As a musical lover, I was really interested to discover more about what it takes to be cast in the title role of the West End musical, Billy Elliot, and was equally gripped by the behind-the-scenes account of the Oscar-winning film, The Impossible. Witty and painfully honest, Eclipsed is both intriguing and really funny. A great read.
April 1, 2022
An interesting story. The problem with self-publishing is that authors don’t usually pay for judicious editing or know what editing they need. This book suffers from run-on sentences and superfluous words that make it a teeth-gritting read. The narrative arc flexes in and out of view, sometimes getting lost in verbiage. The text leaps around, slamming through awkward and abruptly placed anecdotes. At 2/3 the length it could be more entertaining. I usually keep books I buy, but this one will be donated.
September 2, 2025
I became a fan of Tom's from the Spiderman movies but overtime enjoy supporting the Holland family. You guys are doing great work with The Brothers Trust. It's refreshing to see you give back to people who desperately need help. I believe Nikki and Dom have raised well behaved kids who later on developed into amazing adults who are making a positive impact in other people's lives. This book has been fun to read, I've giggled and enjoy all the behind the scene stories. I'm glad to have received a signed copy , thank you!
December 23, 2022
As a fan of Dom Holland and having read a few of his books already, this was another fun read and a great chance to learn more about the author and his family. With his signature humour and great storytelling style, I found this book to be a really fun read. (I listened to the audiobook which added an extra layer to the storytelling!)
November 21, 2024
Besides getting me to want to watch the movie the Imposssible, I didn’t much enjoy the book. I didn’t find Dominick Holland to be very funny so it was a tough listen. I did enjoy the interview parts with Tom Holland at the end of certain chapters.
April 22, 2020
As someone who tends to shy away from anything vaguely (auto)biographical, I found myself really enjoying this book. It was extremely well written, and overall, just a fun read!
December 17, 2022
I personally loved this book as a Holland family fan.
May 12, 2020
What is cleverly advertised as a story about the son, reads more like a love letter to his family and especially his wife. I was more than happy about this unsuspected twist. The dichotomy between father and son and how they approach people in the show business is equally interesting to read about as are the core values that the father tries to instill into his sons. It is clear that it‘s written with much love and affection, and a hint of self-deprication. The book finds a perfect mix of letting us be a part of their family story without the feeling of invading their private lives. And now I would love to read the story from Nikki‘s point of view. The real heroine of the book, and rightfully so from what the book tells.
July 28, 2021
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was heartfelt, and funny too. I loved getting to read about Tom's journey of becoming Billy Elliot, and behind the scenes of his first movie role (The Impossible) from the perspective of a loving and proud parent.
The only reason I didn't give this full stars, is because there were a few chapters that should have been trimmed down. (Specifically details about Dominic's career that didn't need to be shared in as great detail as they were.)
Overall, I would recommend anyone giving this book a read! I think you will walk away feeling warm and encouraged, with a new interesting perspective of a kind and genuine family on a crazy one-in-a-million experience.
The only reason I didn't give this full stars, is because there were a few chapters that should have been trimmed down. (Specifically details about Dominic's career that didn't need to be shared in as great detail as they were.)
Overall, I would recommend anyone giving this book a read! I think you will walk away feeling warm and encouraged, with a new interesting perspective of a kind and genuine family on a crazy one-in-a-million experience.
October 30, 2019
A heartwarming and hilarious read. Eclipsed tells the fascinating true story of how UK comedian Dominic Holland found himself being upstaged by his eldest son, Tom Holland - probably best known for playing the web-slinging Marvel superhero Spider-Man.
I stumbled across this book by chance and absolutely loved it. Essentially two stories in one, the tale veers between Dominic's career on the comedy circuit and young Tom's first forays into the showbiz world of stage and film.
As a musical lover, I was really interested to discover more about what it takes to be cast in the title role of the West End musical, Billy Elliot, and was equally gripped by the behind-the-scenes account of the Oscar-winning film, The Impossible. Witty and painfully honest, Eclipsed is both intriguing and really funny. A great read.
I stumbled across this book by chance and absolutely loved it. Essentially two stories in one, the tale veers between Dominic's career on the comedy circuit and young Tom's first forays into the showbiz world of stage and film.
As a musical lover, I was really interested to discover more about what it takes to be cast in the title role of the West End musical, Billy Elliot, and was equally gripped by the behind-the-scenes account of the Oscar-winning film, The Impossible. Witty and painfully honest, Eclipsed is both intriguing and really funny. A great read.
July 15, 2018
This book’s a terrific read. It gives a unique genuine insight into the world of show business – not by someone who made it, but from someone who nearly made it. A painfully honest but also very witty account of eventually plateauing (his words, not mine!), whilst at the same time seeing the remarkable emergence of a new Hollywood star – it’s two stories in one. Easy read, well told, written by one of UK comedy's good guys
March 28, 2019
A fascinating look behind the scenes
Anyone who is interested in the entertainment industry will enjoy this tale of a professional comedian whose son becomes a star. Great insight into the “business” side of show business and the author pulls no punches presenting his own dreams vs the reality of his career. A very funny and loving look at how working in entertainment affects the entire family.
Anyone who is interested in the entertainment industry will enjoy this tale of a professional comedian whose son becomes a star. Great insight into the “business” side of show business and the author pulls no punches presenting his own dreams vs the reality of his career. A very funny and loving look at how working in entertainment affects the entire family.
August 31, 2017
3.5 stars
June 28, 2019
Fab and funny!
Lovely story of family life that is way beyond normal! Lovely to hear inside gossip about film and theatre characters
Lovely story of family life that is way beyond normal! Lovely to hear inside gossip about film and theatre characters
July 1, 2020
A funny and honest book
Loved this book.
Have read Only in America and have watched Doms stand up in past and was not disappointed.
Loved this book.
Have read Only in America and have watched Doms stand up in past and was not disappointed.
November 11, 2020
Funny book that gives a behind-the-scenes look to Hollywood
Loved getting to know the Holland family better and to embark on this journey with them. Truly funny and insightful.
Loved getting to know the Holland family better and to embark on this journey with them. Truly funny and insightful.
February 16, 2022
Fascinating and Fantastic!
This is a great book! I was so interested and intrigued I couldn’t put it down and I am very much not a reader.
This is a great book! I was so interested and intrigued I couldn’t put it down and I am very much not a reader.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews