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On the Edge
Richard Hammond is one of our most in-demand and best-loved television presenters. In September 2006, he suffered a serious brain injury following a high-speed car crash. ON THE EDGE is his compelling account of life before and after the accident and an honest description of his recovery, full of drama and incident.
An adrenalin junkie long before his association with Top Gear, Richard tells the story of his life, from the small boy showing off with ridiculous stunts on his bicycle to the adolescent with a near-obsessive attraction to speed and the smell of petrol.
After a series of jobs in local radio, he graduated to television and eventually to Top Gear. His insights into the personalities, the camaraderie and the stunts for which Top Gear has become famous, make compulsive reading. It was whilst filming for Top Gear that Richard was involved in a high speed crash, driving a jet-powered dragster. His wife Mindy tells the story of the anxious hours and days of watching and waiting until he finally emerged from his coma. In an extraordinarily powerful piece of writing, she and Richard then piece together the stages of his recovery as his shattered mind slowly reformed. The final chapter recounts his return home and his triumphant reappearance in front of the cameras.
An adrenalin junkie long before his association with Top Gear, Richard tells the story of his life, from the small boy showing off with ridiculous stunts on his bicycle to the adolescent with a near-obsessive attraction to speed and the smell of petrol.
After a series of jobs in local radio, he graduated to television and eventually to Top Gear. His insights into the personalities, the camaraderie and the stunts for which Top Gear has become famous, make compulsive reading. It was whilst filming for Top Gear that Richard was involved in a high speed crash, driving a jet-powered dragster. His wife Mindy tells the story of the anxious hours and days of watching and waiting until he finally emerged from his coma. In an extraordinarily powerful piece of writing, she and Richard then piece together the stages of his recovery as his shattered mind slowly reformed. The final chapter recounts his return home and his triumphant reappearance in front of the cameras.
310 pages, Hardcover
First published September 20, 2007
99 people are currently reading
2074 people want to read
About the author
Richard Hammond
40 books206 followersRichard Hammond is a British TV presenter, most noted for co-hosting car programme Top Gear alongside Jeremy Clarkson and James May, as well as presenting Brainiac: Science Abuse on Sky1, Should I Worry About...? on BBC One and Total Wipeout, also on BBC One and Richard Hammonds Blast Lab on CBBC. He has also presented several one-off specials such as ITV's The Gunpowder Plot: Exploding The Legend and the annual Crufts awards.
In 2006, Hammond suffered a life-threatening crash at speeds of over 280mph in a jet engine powered dragster racing car. He recovered months later and continued his presenting work.
In 2006, Hammond suffered a life-threatening crash at speeds of over 280mph in a jet engine powered dragster racing car. He recovered months later and continued his presenting work.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 314 reviews
June 10, 2016
On the Edge This is an excellent book, I listen to it a couple of years ago as an audiobook, but bought it now because 1.) It was so good I want to read it again and 2.) It will look smashing on my bookshelf 3.) I have a bit of a Top Gear obsession (and I’m not even a car fan.
But anyway, if you are after a great autobiographical book, then this is one I wholeheartedly recommend! I do btw recommend the audio book because both Richard and his wife Mindy is narrating the book, with Mindy taking over the story when Richard is inured. It's a very gripping story and you could really feel Mindy's anxiety when she learned about the accident and not knowing if he would survive.
But anyway, if you are after a great autobiographical book, then this is one I wholeheartedly recommend! I do btw recommend the audio book because both Richard and his wife Mindy is narrating the book, with Mindy taking over the story when Richard is inured. It's a very gripping story and you could really feel Mindy's anxiety when she learned about the accident and not knowing if he would survive.
June 10, 2017
June 10, 2017: Richard Hammond was involved in another serious crash today on the set of "The Grand Tour." Luckily, he was able to remove himself from the car before it burst into flames. Best wishes to Hammond!
I love Richard Hammond; his wit, humor, love for adventure, and constant smile remind me of my husband, who introduced me to Top Gear when we met two and a half years ago. Oftentimes during an episode of Top Gear--and now, The Grand Tour--my husband will turn to me, motion to silly, bubbly, upbeat Hammond and say, "You know he almost died, right?"
This book recounts in great detail the events leading up to Hammond's crash of a jet-engine powered car while filming Top Gear in 2006, and the life-threatening brain injury he sustained.
This book glosses over Hammond's childhood, early days in radio, and rise to the BBC. I would've appreciated a lot more detail here (I was hoping for some Jeremy Clarkson and James May tidbits); the main focus of this book is the crash, his recovery, and in a complete surprise to me (I mean, the book is called On The Edge: MY Story), wife Mindy's narration for almost half of the book about her experience caring for Hammond while he is in and out of consciousness following the accident, and during his rehabilitation.
Even if you've never heard of Hammond, this is a compelling story about the triumph over such a serious injury, how such an injury--particularly to the brain--can affect loved ones, and the struggles a victim faces even well after the fact, even when they look ok. The unconditional love and deep bond Mindy and Richard have for each other is apparent throughout the book. The pair seems to find the best in everyone around them ...even the paparazzi who stalked the hospital and hid on the rooftop when Hammond was airlifted out. The couple also use the book as an opportunity to offer heartfelt thanks--on numerous occasions--to fans who sent flowers and cards (they read them all), doctors and nurses who cared for Richard, members of the BBC team, friends and family... Basically, if you knew Richard and Mindy during this period, you got a thank you.
While I went into this book expecting something completely different, like a companion piece to The Grand Tour (something Ewan MacGregor and Charley Boorman nailed in both Long Way Round and Long Way Down), or just a straight biography of Hammond's life with more attention to his career, I enjoyed it, and came away with a deeper admiration for the both Richard and Mindy. I appreciated being granted such insight and access to such a personal, harrowing experience, and felt like I read something very honest from someone who is normally all about the humor.
I love Richard Hammond; his wit, humor, love for adventure, and constant smile remind me of my husband, who introduced me to Top Gear when we met two and a half years ago. Oftentimes during an episode of Top Gear--and now, The Grand Tour--my husband will turn to me, motion to silly, bubbly, upbeat Hammond and say, "You know he almost died, right?"
This book recounts in great detail the events leading up to Hammond's crash of a jet-engine powered car while filming Top Gear in 2006, and the life-threatening brain injury he sustained.
This book glosses over Hammond's childhood, early days in radio, and rise to the BBC. I would've appreciated a lot more detail here (I was hoping for some Jeremy Clarkson and James May tidbits); the main focus of this book is the crash, his recovery, and in a complete surprise to me (I mean, the book is called On The Edge: MY Story), wife Mindy's narration for almost half of the book about her experience caring for Hammond while he is in and out of consciousness following the accident, and during his rehabilitation.
Even if you've never heard of Hammond, this is a compelling story about the triumph over such a serious injury, how such an injury--particularly to the brain--can affect loved ones, and the struggles a victim faces even well after the fact, even when they look ok. The unconditional love and deep bond Mindy and Richard have for each other is apparent throughout the book. The pair seems to find the best in everyone around them ...even the paparazzi who stalked the hospital and hid on the rooftop when Hammond was airlifted out. The couple also use the book as an opportunity to offer heartfelt thanks--on numerous occasions--to fans who sent flowers and cards (they read them all), doctors and nurses who cared for Richard, members of the BBC team, friends and family... Basically, if you knew Richard and Mindy during this period, you got a thank you.
While I went into this book expecting something completely different, like a companion piece to The Grand Tour (something Ewan MacGregor and Charley Boorman nailed in both Long Way Round and Long Way Down), or just a straight biography of Hammond's life with more attention to his career, I enjoyed it, and came away with a deeper admiration for the both Richard and Mindy. I appreciated being granted such insight and access to such a personal, harrowing experience, and felt like I read something very honest from someone who is normally all about the humor.
August 1, 2008
The Hamster is one of the presenters on the UK car show Top Gear. A few years ago, he was doing a stunt for the show - driving a jet powered car at speeds over 300mph. On the seventh run, the front tire blew out and catapulted the car head over trunk a few times before coming to a stop, thanks to his head and the roller rack. This book, while dipping a bit into his childhood to explain why he thought driving a jet powered car would be a good idea, is mainly about the aftermath of that incident. And holy hell, what an aftermath. Of course, he had very serious brain damage. He was in a coma, then he had no short term memory, he had no control over his emotions, he was very damaged, but he totally came back. Not the same, but he came back.
He's an excellent writer - no real surprise, given that he's a journalist, and he pulls no punches. Mindy, his wife, wrote the chapters about the three weeks post-accident because he doesn't remember them at all, and then they alternated stories about the next month or so, with some overlapping scenes that read totally differently. She's not nearly as good a writer, but she's pretty solid once she settles in to the story, and she wasn't afraid to write about the bad parts, either.
Really, it's a remarkable story for the fact that he recovered and so damn fast. (Not that he was by any stretch recovered by the time this story ends - he's said that he doesn't remember one bit of filming series eight, which was many months after the accident.) It's also remarkable for his and Mindy's relationship, which is so strong and loving. I don't think I've ever seen a couple like them in real life.
He's an excellent writer - no real surprise, given that he's a journalist, and he pulls no punches. Mindy, his wife, wrote the chapters about the three weeks post-accident because he doesn't remember them at all, and then they alternated stories about the next month or so, with some overlapping scenes that read totally differently. She's not nearly as good a writer, but she's pretty solid once she settles in to the story, and she wasn't afraid to write about the bad parts, either.
Really, it's a remarkable story for the fact that he recovered and so damn fast. (Not that he was by any stretch recovered by the time this story ends - he's said that he doesn't remember one bit of filming series eight, which was many months after the accident.) It's also remarkable for his and Mindy's relationship, which is so strong and loving. I don't think I've ever seen a couple like them in real life.
October 25, 2024
My Nana recommended this book to me recently, and by happy coincidence it was part of a recent sale on Audible, so I snapped it up immediately. Although short, it packs a punch. I vaguely remember television presenter Richard Hammond's accident at the time, although I didn't follow it closely, being quite young then. I wasn't familiar with most of the details, but I knew it had been a serious head injury. I finished this book with a great deal of respect for his wife, who touchingly read the portions immediately after the accident, which he doesn't recall.
Despite being a book that covers such a serious accident and difficult recovery, it was very optimistic and frequently funny. Initially concerns were lower as he regained consciousness quickly after the crash and was talking and moving seemingly normally. However he quickly became belligerent, insisting on filming his description part post drive, rather than allowing the ambulance crew to examine him. He would only listen to a "Top Gear" producer, and it soon became clear he was not right. Shortly after this he was airlifted to hospital and his brain began to swell. He fell unconscious again and this time took much longer to wake back up. Even though it is now years since, and I knew he recovered, I was overjoyed when Jeremy Clarkson came running down the hallway to tell Mindy that Richard was unexpectedly awake and sitting up! There was a long way to go but this was of course incredible news.
I'll have to paraphrase, the one downside of the audio format when it comes to reviewing, but while in the hospital after many hours spent with Mindy (his wonderful wife) he informed her it had been nice to meet her and she was lovely, but he had to get back to his wife now. She said she was his wife - he calmly told her she wasn't as his wife was French. I laughed, but also wondered at what was happening in his injured brain to think this true, even briefly.
Repeatedly Mindy would tell Richard he had had an accident, and he wouldn't believe her. It wasn't until she showed him Jeremy Clarkson's latest column that he accepted it as true. He was amazed that it had made the front page, having no idea of what worldwide news his crash, injury, and him eventually regaining consciousness had been.
They were inundated with letters and cards, which he says helped immensely, especially one from a teenage boy who had written to him about his own brain injury, and the recovery that was possible.
He recovered well, although had some guilt over this. Why did he recover from such a dangerous crash, whereas others are more seriously affected by something as simple as falling down the stairs. I found myself thinking of the writer Hanif Kureishi, recently seriously injured in a fall at home - it is bizarre how unpredictable injuries and recovery can be. Richard was very lucky indeed.
Richard Hammond's first interview after the crash: https://youtu.be/6b-WaO3bZs4?si=KvNy2...
Also this more recent clip: https://youtu.be/4DPX6wgZpt8?si=cqqSB...
A link to the article Mindy Hammond mentions by Jeremy Clarkson, which was a valuable addition to this book, so I'm glad I looked it up:
https://www.lancerregister.com/thread...
May 30, 2021
I should start by saying I never read biographies. I gave this one a go because I like Richard Hammond and I was interested in the whole crash/recovery business. The middle section of the book had me hooked, I found myself hoping he'd be okay despite the obvious, but the bits around the middle were kind of slow going and I found that I wasn't really as invested in the story as I thought I was.
April 13, 2012
Let me just start off by saying that this is probably one of the best books I have ever read.
The book starts with Richard [Hammond] himself talking about a skiing challenge he had to do as part of Top Gear after the crash, and how it affected his balance. He then, from chapter two, goes on to talk about his life from when he was a child - about his family, his brothers, the normal boyish things he did to hurt himself so that the attention would be on him, and finally, his developing love for cars and bikes starting from a bicycle and a home-made ramp. He writes about his teenage life, and his first proper jobs working for radio stations around England. There are some really funny stories in this section. This is when he starts writing about when he first met his wife Mindy and the two daughters they had a few years after.
The story then builds up towards the accident when talks about the jet-car experiment that him and the Top Gear team were determined to try out. He describes the car, the experience driving it at beyond-insane speeds, and finally, how he felt in those last moments before he blacked out when the car flipped several times off course...
The book picks up with his wife Mindy, who talks about what life was like for her and the girls when Richard was in hospital in a coma. Some parts are extremely sad; their two daughters were very young at the time, so it is an emotional section of the book when you read about their reactions and how they didn't know what was happening to their daddy while he was stuck in hospital. Mindy covers the events in his life when he emerged from the coma, and was well on his way to recovery - their journey to a secret cabin in the Scottish Highlands to hide away from the press, and his triumphant return to his home and, of course, Top Gear. Richard then steps back in to end the book, talking about how he felt after waking up after so long, and his confusion and temporary memory loss. Some sections are extremely funny to read because he writes about these situations in a very humorous way.
I have nothing else to say apart from READ IT. If you like Richard Hammond and/or Top Gear, or just fancy an amazing read, I'd recommend this to anybody.
The book starts with Richard [Hammond] himself talking about a skiing challenge he had to do as part of Top Gear after the crash, and how it affected his balance. He then, from chapter two, goes on to talk about his life from when he was a child - about his family, his brothers, the normal boyish things he did to hurt himself so that the attention would be on him, and finally, his developing love for cars and bikes starting from a bicycle and a home-made ramp. He writes about his teenage life, and his first proper jobs working for radio stations around England. There are some really funny stories in this section. This is when he starts writing about when he first met his wife Mindy and the two daughters they had a few years after.
The story then builds up towards the accident when talks about the jet-car experiment that him and the Top Gear team were determined to try out. He describes the car, the experience driving it at beyond-insane speeds, and finally, how he felt in those last moments before he blacked out when the car flipped several times off course...
The book picks up with his wife Mindy, who talks about what life was like for her and the girls when Richard was in hospital in a coma. Some parts are extremely sad; their two daughters were very young at the time, so it is an emotional section of the book when you read about their reactions and how they didn't know what was happening to their daddy while he was stuck in hospital. Mindy covers the events in his life when he emerged from the coma, and was well on his way to recovery - their journey to a secret cabin in the Scottish Highlands to hide away from the press, and his triumphant return to his home and, of course, Top Gear. Richard then steps back in to end the book, talking about how he felt after waking up after so long, and his confusion and temporary memory loss. Some sections are extremely funny to read because he writes about these situations in a very humorous way.
I have nothing else to say apart from READ IT. If you like Richard Hammond and/or Top Gear, or just fancy an amazing read, I'd recommend this to anybody.
May 11, 2010
Oh. My. God.
I am a HUUUUUGGGGGE Top Gear fan, and my Dad likes to be part of that by buying me books by Jeremy Clarkson. When he saw this, he bought this one for me too, because (like every female of a certain age) I have a crush on Richard Hammond.
This was written by Richard after he was in a very serious car accident a few years ago. He discusses some of his dare-devil antics prior to the accident, the accident itself, and some of the aftermath. The aftermath of the crash was written in conjunction with Mindy, his wife.
I wept in parts, I laughed in others. Mindy and Richard clearly adore each other and I can say, without hesitation, that if it wasn't for her, I'm not sure that Richard would have come back to us. It's clear, especially from Mindy's writing, that this was a hugely stressful episode for them both and I think Mindy deserves a sainthood. I've never experienced such a devoted wife.
I'm not sure that people unfamiliar with Richard or Top Gear would have much interest in this, but for fans of the show, car enthusiasts, and perhaps anyone who has had the misfortune to experience what Richard experienced, I say that you should read this as soon as the opportunity presents itself.
I am a HUUUUUGGGGGE Top Gear fan, and my Dad likes to be part of that by buying me books by Jeremy Clarkson. When he saw this, he bought this one for me too, because (like every female of a certain age) I have a crush on Richard Hammond.
This was written by Richard after he was in a very serious car accident a few years ago. He discusses some of his dare-devil antics prior to the accident, the accident itself, and some of the aftermath. The aftermath of the crash was written in conjunction with Mindy, his wife.
I wept in parts, I laughed in others. Mindy and Richard clearly adore each other and I can say, without hesitation, that if it wasn't for her, I'm not sure that Richard would have come back to us. It's clear, especially from Mindy's writing, that this was a hugely stressful episode for them both and I think Mindy deserves a sainthood. I've never experienced such a devoted wife.
I'm not sure that people unfamiliar with Richard or Top Gear would have much interest in this, but for fans of the show, car enthusiasts, and perhaps anyone who has had the misfortune to experience what Richard experienced, I say that you should read this as soon as the opportunity presents itself.
April 8, 2014
If you, or anyone in your life is suffering from the effects of a traumatic brain injury (TBI), this autobiography written by one of the UK’s most loved auto show presenters is a must read for you. Hammond is one of the trio that presents the UK version of Top Gear and for those who have seen the show they will automatically know to what incident in his life this book centres on. For those who haven’t, but are still looking for an informative and moving read, this maybe the book you are looking for.
This book is so much more than a narrative of what life is like as a TBI sufferer and, as can be read through the words of the Author’s Wife, living with someone affected; this book takes the reader right back to the very beginning and lays the groundwork for what is to come later in life. It is written with a sense of humour only to be expected from the ‘Hamster’, whilst at the same time being very frank and honest as to how life radically changed for him and his family. At times, as he describes his recovery, the words become almost heart wrenching as he tries to come to terms with life as it is now.
Those who read this and understand how hard living with TBI can be, will thoroughly agree with the Author as he writes about his frustrations at having to relearn his life, and also be there with his Wife as she goes through the waiting phase after the injury. I am being very vague here with regard to the incident that resulted in TBI, as I don’t want to take the impact of that section of the book away from anyone who might pick this up and read it.
It is a very easy read, and felt at times as if I were sat with the Author talking about this over a cup of something hot. There are moments in the book where it feels as if the Author were in two minds as to whether he was going to share a particular item with the reader as it was too painful to relive, but share he does so as to make anyone, and their Families, feel like they are not alone whilst going through this kind of thing.
This is a very important book in the world of TBI; it gives hope and encouragement to all parties involved when none may have been promised by medical staff. I would highly recommend this book to anyone going through this, and those who want to know more.
Originally reviewed on: http://catesbooknuthut.com/2014/04/08...
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.
This book is so much more than a narrative of what life is like as a TBI sufferer and, as can be read through the words of the Author’s Wife, living with someone affected; this book takes the reader right back to the very beginning and lays the groundwork for what is to come later in life. It is written with a sense of humour only to be expected from the ‘Hamster’, whilst at the same time being very frank and honest as to how life radically changed for him and his family. At times, as he describes his recovery, the words become almost heart wrenching as he tries to come to terms with life as it is now.
Those who read this and understand how hard living with TBI can be, will thoroughly agree with the Author as he writes about his frustrations at having to relearn his life, and also be there with his Wife as she goes through the waiting phase after the injury. I am being very vague here with regard to the incident that resulted in TBI, as I don’t want to take the impact of that section of the book away from anyone who might pick this up and read it.
It is a very easy read, and felt at times as if I were sat with the Author talking about this over a cup of something hot. There are moments in the book where it feels as if the Author were in two minds as to whether he was going to share a particular item with the reader as it was too painful to relive, but share he does so as to make anyone, and their Families, feel like they are not alone whilst going through this kind of thing.
This is a very important book in the world of TBI; it gives hope and encouragement to all parties involved when none may have been promised by medical staff. I would highly recommend this book to anyone going through this, and those who want to know more.
Originally reviewed on: http://catesbooknuthut.com/2014/04/08...
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.
January 23, 2016
I wanted to go for the abridged audiobook and then I read a review that said "unabridged would be better". Well, it wasn't :)
So many unnecessary details. I should've known from the start where the author descibes his childhood bicycle stunt for what feels like a hundred pages.
If you like Top Gear and want to know more about the crash I seriously recommend you start reading from the part where he gets to the jet car. Before there are parts where he describes what ailments the dog had and why and what did they do about it and who did it. So detailed, so boring.
Then just after the crash comes Mindys part which is the best part of the book. She describes in detail what happend and it is interesting and feels real. Until they get out of the hospital (spoiler alert? :)) and then it becomes boring again. With Richard describing trees, legos and how he zips up his jacket.
I didn't listen to the abridged version but if you are considering reading this book, I would definitely recommend going for the abridged version.
So many unnecessary details. I should've known from the start where the author descibes his childhood bicycle stunt for what feels like a hundred pages.
If you like Top Gear and want to know more about the crash I seriously recommend you start reading from the part where he gets to the jet car. Before there are parts where he describes what ailments the dog had and why and what did they do about it and who did it. So detailed, so boring.
Then just after the crash comes Mindys part which is the best part of the book. She describes in detail what happend and it is interesting and feels real. Until they get out of the hospital (spoiler alert? :)) and then it becomes boring again. With Richard describing trees, legos and how he zips up his jacket.
I didn't listen to the abridged version but if you are considering reading this book, I would definitely recommend going for the abridged version.
May 10, 2009
Oh how I teared up in parts of this.
I have so much respect for this man - because he was careful to include the bad times during this ordeal. It wasn't a book thanking the staff and the network and his friends and family, no. It was saying how hard it all was, and how he acted badly in some parts or how hard he was to get along with, etc. He gave us the true story, which I don't think happens every time with these kinds of books.
I love him more for it. I read it on the way home from England in my three day stopover in Tokyo, and those passing by must have been amused at the gaijan's tears. Some parts were hard to read.
This man once got stuck in a traffic jam and ran for two or so hours to get home - where he left his car I don't know - before his daughter woke on her birthday. He's simply lovely.
I have so much respect for this man - because he was careful to include the bad times during this ordeal. It wasn't a book thanking the staff and the network and his friends and family, no. It was saying how hard it all was, and how he acted badly in some parts or how hard he was to get along with, etc. He gave us the true story, which I don't think happens every time with these kinds of books.
I love him more for it. I read it on the way home from England in my three day stopover in Tokyo, and those passing by must have been amused at the gaijan's tears. Some parts were hard to read.
This man once got stuck in a traffic jam and ran for two or so hours to get home - where he left his car I don't know - before his daughter woke on her birthday. He's simply lovely.
November 16, 2008
Shoddy, cliche writing, but he's too lovable for me to mind much.
March 9, 2022
I wouldn’t say we were Top Gear fans in our house, but if when flicking through the channels we came across an episode and there was nothing else on, we would stop and watch, although I would say the other half was more of a fan than me and I’d probably have one eye on a book and one he on the show for the interesting bits.
This mostly covers the accident in the jet car. There is a bit of early background about Richard as a child and his daredevil ways, followed by how he got the job at Top Gear. The detail of the events leading up to the crash were pretty detailed. Once the accident had happened we swap to Mindys voice and how she got the call and the proceedings at the hospital. I felt quite disoriented with the timings once at the hospital, I couldn’t work out it hours, days or weeks were going by, but I guess that was probably how Mindy felt going through it all, and was surprised that actually it was a relatively short time all things considered. Their strength as a couple is amazing and I have had my eyes opened to how damage to the brain can affect people and how the hospitals are trained to deal with it, when it’s actually a very unseen thing that effects every single person suffering so differently.
Overall an interesting read and I feel Mindy has been a disservice by not having her name on the cover, when actually she wrote well over half of this.
This mostly covers the accident in the jet car. There is a bit of early background about Richard as a child and his daredevil ways, followed by how he got the job at Top Gear. The detail of the events leading up to the crash were pretty detailed. Once the accident had happened we swap to Mindys voice and how she got the call and the proceedings at the hospital. I felt quite disoriented with the timings once at the hospital, I couldn’t work out it hours, days or weeks were going by, but I guess that was probably how Mindy felt going through it all, and was surprised that actually it was a relatively short time all things considered. Their strength as a couple is amazing and I have had my eyes opened to how damage to the brain can affect people and how the hospitals are trained to deal with it, when it’s actually a very unseen thing that effects every single person suffering so differently.
Overall an interesting read and I feel Mindy has been a disservice by not having her name on the cover, when actually she wrote well over half of this.
March 16, 2021
Richard has quite the knack for writing. I wasn’t as enamored bu his wife’s portions, but I understand the need to see his accident from her perspective. It would have been very different if parts were written by doctors and nurses. I’m glad he recovered well and fairly quickly. But I wonder how they all felt about his other massive hill climbing accident years later?
August 8, 2009
On the Edge - Richard Hammond
Weidenfiled & Nicolson
isbn 13 978 0 85327 5
When a national TV star has a serious accident in the course of his work it is BIG news. That is how things are these days. The viewer builds up some sort of relationship with the person on the small(ish) screen. So Richard's jet car accident was a big deal. The newspapers and the TV and radio news not only reported his crash, but also to some extent his recovery. This book is Richards record, for public consumption, of that whole process.
I started reading this on our quiet weekend, and got a fair way through. It starts with Richard's childhood and gives you some idea why he turned out like he did, his family life, and how he ended up on 'Top Gear'. This is all very interesting stuff as autobiographies go, but it isn't the main point of his book. The point is the recovery from the accident. It was just another mad day of filming. Richard describes the 'car' as he normally would. I could hear him as I read the words. The preparations for the run, the description of the simplicity of the controls. His evaluation of the vehicle and the driving experience. The description of the accident is brief. His thoughts during it are also recorded, but obviously from his memories - after the accident. He is used to observing and recording his impressions and playing them back for the viewer, and the accident is recorded in a similar way.
Immediately after the accident Mindy (his wife) takes over the narrative. It is through her descriptions of the aftermath that we get a real feeling for the impact that such an accident has on those around the victim. At first just the worry, the narrow focus on the person you think you may loose, and the overwhelming shock of it all. All this comes through really clearly.
The recovery process is more prolonged, this part takes about half the book. There are some lovely scenes that portray the madness of it all, they should be funny, but because we have got to know Richard somehow, they are not. The escape from the hospital, the military style operation to move the family to somewhere quiet so that the recovery can continue should be a point of high humour - but we care, so it isn't. Mindy's passages about the family, and particularly the children make for difficult reading. They are well written, but hard to read, hard to get through, especially if you have children of your own, I suspect.
Towards the end where Richard and Mindy are both writing, and it is possible to compare what they were doing by putting the passages next to each other, the font is changed so that we can easily tell who is who. That is helpful, but that part of the book is still the most confusing. It would have been better separated into chapters, and some explaining used to help the reader through. The constant switches from Richard to Mindy and back again just serves to break both stories.
It is a very readable book, from one of our best TV personalities, describing a difficult period in his life. Mindy's sections are perhaps the most important, and perhaps communicate the experience better than Richard's, but then she is on the outside, just as we are.
Weidenfiled & Nicolson
isbn 13 978 0 85327 5
When a national TV star has a serious accident in the course of his work it is BIG news. That is how things are these days. The viewer builds up some sort of relationship with the person on the small(ish) screen. So Richard's jet car accident was a big deal. The newspapers and the TV and radio news not only reported his crash, but also to some extent his recovery. This book is Richards record, for public consumption, of that whole process.
I started reading this on our quiet weekend, and got a fair way through. It starts with Richard's childhood and gives you some idea why he turned out like he did, his family life, and how he ended up on 'Top Gear'. This is all very interesting stuff as autobiographies go, but it isn't the main point of his book. The point is the recovery from the accident. It was just another mad day of filming. Richard describes the 'car' as he normally would. I could hear him as I read the words. The preparations for the run, the description of the simplicity of the controls. His evaluation of the vehicle and the driving experience. The description of the accident is brief. His thoughts during it are also recorded, but obviously from his memories - after the accident. He is used to observing and recording his impressions and playing them back for the viewer, and the accident is recorded in a similar way.
Immediately after the accident Mindy (his wife) takes over the narrative. It is through her descriptions of the aftermath that we get a real feeling for the impact that such an accident has on those around the victim. At first just the worry, the narrow focus on the person you think you may loose, and the overwhelming shock of it all. All this comes through really clearly.
The recovery process is more prolonged, this part takes about half the book. There are some lovely scenes that portray the madness of it all, they should be funny, but because we have got to know Richard somehow, they are not. The escape from the hospital, the military style operation to move the family to somewhere quiet so that the recovery can continue should be a point of high humour - but we care, so it isn't. Mindy's passages about the family, and particularly the children make for difficult reading. They are well written, but hard to read, hard to get through, especially if you have children of your own, I suspect.
Towards the end where Richard and Mindy are both writing, and it is possible to compare what they were doing by putting the passages next to each other, the font is changed so that we can easily tell who is who. That is helpful, but that part of the book is still the most confusing. It would have been better separated into chapters, and some explaining used to help the reader through. The constant switches from Richard to Mindy and back again just serves to break both stories.
It is a very readable book, from one of our best TV personalities, describing a difficult period in his life. Mindy's sections are perhaps the most important, and perhaps communicate the experience better than Richard's, but then she is on the outside, just as we are.
May 12, 2014
I don't usually go in for 'celebrity' biographies, but I do like Hammond as a presenter and have met him a few times, so I decided that I had to read it. It's different to other biographies in that it isn't a blow-by-blow account of a life only vaguely interesting - instead it purely focuses on his accident and recovery, with the only flashbacks the reader is given being relevant to that.
It's an easy read - the style is simple and yet descriptive, interesting and yet entertaining. Hammond's sense of humour comes through, even in the most harrowing bits. I read it quite quickly (most of it during the Eurovision Song Contest, which added a weird backdrop to the words!), but because it was compelling rather than short!
For me, the hardest chapter to read was the first one by his wife, Mindy, as she describes getting the phone call while trying a horse out at the local college. As well as being a completely horrible thing for anyone to go through, it was made more real for me because I know that college well, have ridden my own horse there many times and have driven the lanes that she describes tearing down in a state in shock. That 'local-ness' added to my own shock, empathy and fear as I read it.
It definitely gave me a better understanding of brain injuries - Hammond's fight just to understand what was going on around him is heart-breaking in places, frustrating for friends and family, and difficult to understand, and yet he wins through. But in the end I think this is story more about Mindy and her battle to keep family together while looking after her husband, fighting tiredness, shock and frustration on a daily basis.
Overall, well worth the read and highly recommended.
It's an easy read - the style is simple and yet descriptive, interesting and yet entertaining. Hammond's sense of humour comes through, even in the most harrowing bits. I read it quite quickly (most of it during the Eurovision Song Contest, which added a weird backdrop to the words!), but because it was compelling rather than short!
For me, the hardest chapter to read was the first one by his wife, Mindy, as she describes getting the phone call while trying a horse out at the local college. As well as being a completely horrible thing for anyone to go through, it was made more real for me because I know that college well, have ridden my own horse there many times and have driven the lanes that she describes tearing down in a state in shock. That 'local-ness' added to my own shock, empathy and fear as I read it.
It definitely gave me a better understanding of brain injuries - Hammond's fight just to understand what was going on around him is heart-breaking in places, frustrating for friends and family, and difficult to understand, and yet he wins through. But in the end I think this is story more about Mindy and her battle to keep family together while looking after her husband, fighting tiredness, shock and frustration on a daily basis.
Overall, well worth the read and highly recommended.
December 4, 2010
This was a really great read about Richard's jet car crash that happened in 2006. It was so much more than what I thought it would it be. Not to say that I didn't think it would be interesting. I knew that it was about the crash from both Richard and his wife Mindy's POV of what happened before and after the crash. But I didn't know it would go into such depth of what really went on at the hospital and at their getaway home. The story was arranged wonderfully starting off with the crash having already happened. And then you were thrown into his childhood giving you a great understanding of what drove him to do that finally lap. But Mindy's parts are what really brought the story to life. I felt as if I was right there with her experiencing every high and low. I have a great appreciation for Mindy for how strong she was and how much she had to go through. This book isn't just a book to get a better understanding of what Richard went through, but also what others who have experienced brain damage have gone through. I think I experienced every emotion while reading this book. One minute I'm laughing the next I've got tears welling up. Honestly one of THE most interesting and best books I've ever read. It really makes me want to read Richard's other books...
March 10, 2016
I don't think there are many people, familiar with Richard Hammond, who don't like him. As well as one of the three guys on Top Gear, he has been on several other shows (check out Braniac if you can find it). As such, he's defiantly one of the UK's favorite TV presenters.
This book has a short introduction documenting his childhood and early career leading up to his job on Top Gear. The other 90% of the book is from when he had the near fatal crash driving a jet powered dragster. He barely walked away from that alive and it left him with some long lasting brain damage. This book is about the effects of that crash and the long recovery process.
Richard Hammond is credited as the author, but in reality, half the book was written by his wife Mindy. It's about all the struggles she had coping with the situation and helping Richard recover.
It's an inspiring story and very insightful into how such a devastating injury effects people. Richard was not badly hurt physically in the crash, all of his problems were caused by a severe blow to the head. It took him a long time to recover and get back to (almost) his former self. A large part of that was due to the love of his wife, close friends and thousands of well wishers the world over.
This book has a short introduction documenting his childhood and early career leading up to his job on Top Gear. The other 90% of the book is from when he had the near fatal crash driving a jet powered dragster. He barely walked away from that alive and it left him with some long lasting brain damage. This book is about the effects of that crash and the long recovery process.
Richard Hammond is credited as the author, but in reality, half the book was written by his wife Mindy. It's about all the struggles she had coping with the situation and helping Richard recover.
It's an inspiring story and very insightful into how such a devastating injury effects people. Richard was not badly hurt physically in the crash, all of his problems were caused by a severe blow to the head. It took him a long time to recover and get back to (almost) his former self. A large part of that was due to the love of his wife, close friends and thousands of well wishers the world over.
February 2, 2009
I initially read this book because I was an avid Top Gear Fan. I was looking to learn more about "the Hamster" and specifically about the crash that nearly ended his life. Search it out if you've never heard of it. What i ended up reading was so much more. This book is Richards life story. Who he is now, who he was before the crash, and what appears to be a very honest look into head trauma and recovery told by two sides (Richard and his Wife).
Moreover, as someone who has worked with helmet design, this book also made things more real.
Moreover, as someone who has worked with helmet design, this book also made things more real.
February 3, 2015
Me encantó leerlo y ver un lado incluso profundo de este chavo.
June 20, 2023
Kiedyś przeczytałam darmowe 10 stron tej biografii, żeby przypomnieć sobie o nich po dobrych kilku latach i uznać, że chciałabym wiedzieć o czym opowiadają pozostałe 340 z nich.
Wypożyczyłam książkę na 2 tygodnie tylko po to, żeby zrozumieć, że zrobiłam to w trochę nienajlepszym na to momencie. W panice, że nie zdążę przeczytałam ją w 4 dni...
Kiedy ja gnałam przez kolejne strony, Richard opowiadał jak to jest gnać 483km/h w bolidzie, do którego przymocowano silnik odrzutowca... i o konsekwencjach, gdy los postanowi zrobić coś na przekór w na pozór idealnie opracowanym planie.
Hammonda pierwszy raz zobaczyłam jako dzieciak oglądając Brainiac, poznałam dzięki Top Gear i pokochałam jeszcze bardziej w Total WhipeOut. Po przeczytaniu tej biografii wiem już jak nie wiele brakowało, aby żadne z powyższych nie doszły do skutku.
----
"Comedy is great way of making up for other shortcomings in your life; ask any comedian. Hurting yourself for the amusement of others is even better."
Wypożyczyłam książkę na 2 tygodnie tylko po to, żeby zrozumieć, że zrobiłam to w trochę nienajlepszym na to momencie. W panice, że nie zdążę przeczytałam ją w 4 dni...
Kiedy ja gnałam przez kolejne strony, Richard opowiadał jak to jest gnać 483km/h w bolidzie, do którego przymocowano silnik odrzutowca... i o konsekwencjach, gdy los postanowi zrobić coś na przekór w na pozór idealnie opracowanym planie.
Hammonda pierwszy raz zobaczyłam jako dzieciak oglądając Brainiac, poznałam dzięki Top Gear i pokochałam jeszcze bardziej w Total WhipeOut. Po przeczytaniu tej biografii wiem już jak nie wiele brakowało, aby żadne z powyższych nie doszły do skutku.
----
"Comedy is great way of making up for other shortcomings in your life; ask any comedian. Hurting yourself for the amusement of others is even better."
February 12, 2018
Though I don't drive and I'm not 'into' cars, I have enjoyed watching many episodes of 'Top Gear', and also watched the 'Hamster's' science programmes with interest. Along with thousands of others, I was horrified to hear of Richard's accident, and relieved that he has recovered from it so well. This honest account made for moving reading.
February 7, 2021
What a remarkable, uplifting and insightful book. Growing up with top gear I already had a feel for Hammonds personality but what a feat to achieve such recovery from his horrendous accident. So incredibly written to illustrate the hardships suffered by his wife Mindy, his family and himself in recovery
February 26, 2025
I haven't been so enthralled and consumed by a book like this in years. As an avid top gear lover who already knew the story, it was awesome to get more insight into what his recovery was like. Also loved Mindy's perspective.
February 6, 2015
Like many loyal fans, I was delighted by the return of "Top Gear" to BBC 2 in 2007, especially after events in the autumn of 2006 gave us a belief that the show might be taken off the air permanently. This was the result of a very serious accident suffered by one of the show's presenters, Richard Hammond and led to an international outpouring of grief and support for him and his family.
The beauty of Hammond's TV work, no matter what programme it's on, is that he makes it all look so much fun and so easy. He gives off the air of being one of your mates who just happens to be on TV, especially on "Brainiac" and "Top Gear", where his cheeky sense of humour and his natural enthusiasm are given full rein. Whenever you watch him, it feels like he's about to walk out of the studio, into the pub and say "you'll never guess what I just did/drove/exploded" and have you in fits of laughter for the rest of the evening telling you all about it.
We get a brief look at how the cheeky young boy became the cheeky young man and how he has been obsessed with motoring since he could drive a toy car. He sketches in a few details of his time in local radio and on "Top Gear" presenter, before recounting the day of his accident. His wife Mindy takes over the story while Richard is easing in and out of consciousness in Leeds General Hospital and you get both sides of the story once Richard has been transferred to Bristol and is more coherent.
The parts of the book are quite distinct, with Mindy's parts being quite simply written but full of emotion and Richard's having more humour, but in the immediate aftermath of his coma, written in short, snappy sentences. It's superbly written, as you get to feel Mindy's distress and the love she has for her husband and the short sentences convey Richard's mental distress and confusion as well as any words he could have used.
The book takes you through the whole range of emotions. Before the accident, recollections of Richard's about his horse riding style being "like a monkey riding a piano" remind you of the cheeky bloke he is and you can't help but laugh. Later on, Mindy's thought whilst looking at Richard is a coma "My world was in front of me, in that bed with tubes and monitors all over him" conveys her love so simply and so beautifully that I was nearly moved to tears; a feeling that would be repeated more than once as I read her part. But even in the darkest moments, Richard's humour shines through. I can't think of anyone else who would observe that "Post-traumatic amnesia helped alleviate the boredom".
I was a fan of Richard Hammond before, but having read this I am full of admiration for both Richard and Mindy. They have opened up their lives and their emotions to tell the story of the most personally harrowing experience that either of them is likely to go through. Every moment of weakness, every time they caused themselves embarrassment, every emotional and physical trauma is on the page for us to read. The whole recovery process was an act of bravery from them both and this is possibly the final, yet bravest step of all and one which may help those recovering from similar incidents or with family or friends in Richard's position.
I'll admit I was a little disappointed at the start that there wasn't more on Richard's life prior to the accident, as his early years were very much sketched over. This makes the book more an experience of an incident than a true biography, although as that was a defining moment in his life, this is understandable. Richard is determined not to let this accident stop him, so there will hopefully be time for a full autobiography in a few years. I may not have got what I expected from this book, but what is here is a wonderfully emotional account of an accident, a fight for health and a deep and abiding love that should be sold with a free box of tissues.
This is a book more for the fan of the man rather than the fan of "Top Gear", although if all the show's fans like the man as much as I do, it's more or less the same thing. He may be short in stature, but the man has a huge heart.
This review may also appear, in whole or in part, under my name at any or all of www.ciao.co.uk, www.thebookbag.co.uk, www.goodreads.com, www.amazon.co.uk and www.dooyoo.co.uk
The beauty of Hammond's TV work, no matter what programme it's on, is that he makes it all look so much fun and so easy. He gives off the air of being one of your mates who just happens to be on TV, especially on "Brainiac" and "Top Gear", where his cheeky sense of humour and his natural enthusiasm are given full rein. Whenever you watch him, it feels like he's about to walk out of the studio, into the pub and say "you'll never guess what I just did/drove/exploded" and have you in fits of laughter for the rest of the evening telling you all about it.
We get a brief look at how the cheeky young boy became the cheeky young man and how he has been obsessed with motoring since he could drive a toy car. He sketches in a few details of his time in local radio and on "Top Gear" presenter, before recounting the day of his accident. His wife Mindy takes over the story while Richard is easing in and out of consciousness in Leeds General Hospital and you get both sides of the story once Richard has been transferred to Bristol and is more coherent.
The parts of the book are quite distinct, with Mindy's parts being quite simply written but full of emotion and Richard's having more humour, but in the immediate aftermath of his coma, written in short, snappy sentences. It's superbly written, as you get to feel Mindy's distress and the love she has for her husband and the short sentences convey Richard's mental distress and confusion as well as any words he could have used.
The book takes you through the whole range of emotions. Before the accident, recollections of Richard's about his horse riding style being "like a monkey riding a piano" remind you of the cheeky bloke he is and you can't help but laugh. Later on, Mindy's thought whilst looking at Richard is a coma "My world was in front of me, in that bed with tubes and monitors all over him" conveys her love so simply and so beautifully that I was nearly moved to tears; a feeling that would be repeated more than once as I read her part. But even in the darkest moments, Richard's humour shines through. I can't think of anyone else who would observe that "Post-traumatic amnesia helped alleviate the boredom".
I was a fan of Richard Hammond before, but having read this I am full of admiration for both Richard and Mindy. They have opened up their lives and their emotions to tell the story of the most personally harrowing experience that either of them is likely to go through. Every moment of weakness, every time they caused themselves embarrassment, every emotional and physical trauma is on the page for us to read. The whole recovery process was an act of bravery from them both and this is possibly the final, yet bravest step of all and one which may help those recovering from similar incidents or with family or friends in Richard's position.
I'll admit I was a little disappointed at the start that there wasn't more on Richard's life prior to the accident, as his early years were very much sketched over. This makes the book more an experience of an incident than a true biography, although as that was a defining moment in his life, this is understandable. Richard is determined not to let this accident stop him, so there will hopefully be time for a full autobiography in a few years. I may not have got what I expected from this book, but what is here is a wonderfully emotional account of an accident, a fight for health and a deep and abiding love that should be sold with a free box of tissues.
This is a book more for the fan of the man rather than the fan of "Top Gear", although if all the show's fans like the man as much as I do, it's more or less the same thing. He may be short in stature, but the man has a huge heart.
This review may also appear, in whole or in part, under my name at any or all of www.ciao.co.uk, www.thebookbag.co.uk, www.goodreads.com, www.amazon.co.uk and www.dooyoo.co.uk
August 15, 2014
I have been watching Top Gear UK for at least six years, and I absolutely love the show. I admit, I'm not a car person at all (I only ask for a little car that works, I can operate without having a spaz and dissolving into tears, is reasonably priced, and can get me from point A to point B), but apparently watching three middle-aged English men do utterly ridiculous challenges and road trips with cars while treating their hijinks as completely normal everyday events is hilarious. So, naturally, I wanted to find more things that featured the hosts' wry and sarcastic sense of humor. Sadly, when I looked for the books that have been written by Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May at my local libraries, not one existed except for On the Edge.
Hammond builds up for the account of his accident and for Mindy's story by giving us insight into his family background and their influence on his obsession with cars and adrenaline-seeking personality, particularly on both his grandfathers: his maternal grandfather worked in car manufacturing while his paternal grandfather did bomb disposal during WWII. He also talks how he worked his way up the ladder in radio broadcasting before auditioning for and landing a presenting role on Top Gear, as well as how he met and courted Mindy, whom he later married and had two daughters with.
The actual account of the crash comes from Hammond's point of view, and follows his initial driving of the dragster up until the crash. This is where Mindy's story comes in, and talks about her time in the hospital waiting for Hammond to wake up from a coma and staying with him all through his recovery, all the while juggling taking care of their daughters, keeping herself together, and guarding the family's privacy from the media. Narrative then switches back and forth between Hammond and Mindy as they talk about Hammond's recovery undertaken in private in Scotland.
Mindy's side of the story is utterly heartbreaking; to hear her worry and uncertainty about whether or not her husband would make it as well as being scared that the man she knew and loved might be gone in terms of personality actually brought tears to my eyes. And to add to that, Hammond's very valid concerns about relearning how to function and his frustration at the confusion that results from a serious brain injury makes you feel for him and his family. I have not had a book make me cry since Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.
Really, with On the Edge, you are not just reading about Hammond's very close brush with death, but also about the unbreakable bond between him, Mindy, and their daughters. You can see how tight a unit they are and how much they love and adore each other. Hammond was extremely lucky to have survived the dragster crash, and, going from later television interviews, he is also very lucky to have come out the same as ever (even better, according to Mindy).
Hammond builds up for the account of his accident and for Mindy's story by giving us insight into his family background and their influence on his obsession with cars and adrenaline-seeking personality, particularly on both his grandfathers: his maternal grandfather worked in car manufacturing while his paternal grandfather did bomb disposal during WWII. He also talks how he worked his way up the ladder in radio broadcasting before auditioning for and landing a presenting role on Top Gear, as well as how he met and courted Mindy, whom he later married and had two daughters with.
The actual account of the crash comes from Hammond's point of view, and follows his initial driving of the dragster up until the crash. This is where Mindy's story comes in, and talks about her time in the hospital waiting for Hammond to wake up from a coma and staying with him all through his recovery, all the while juggling taking care of their daughters, keeping herself together, and guarding the family's privacy from the media. Narrative then switches back and forth between Hammond and Mindy as they talk about Hammond's recovery undertaken in private in Scotland.
Mindy's side of the story is utterly heartbreaking; to hear her worry and uncertainty about whether or not her husband would make it as well as being scared that the man she knew and loved might be gone in terms of personality actually brought tears to my eyes. And to add to that, Hammond's very valid concerns about relearning how to function and his frustration at the confusion that results from a serious brain injury makes you feel for him and his family. I have not had a book make me cry since Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.
Really, with On the Edge, you are not just reading about Hammond's very close brush with death, but also about the unbreakable bond between him, Mindy, and their daughters. You can see how tight a unit they are and how much they love and adore each other. Hammond was extremely lucky to have survived the dragster crash, and, going from later television interviews, he is also very lucky to have come out the same as ever (even better, according to Mindy).
January 29, 2015
This is seriously one of the best books I have ever read. Yes, I may be biased because I am a MASSIVE Top Gear fan, but it is still a very touching and honest telling of what drove Richard to get into that Dragster back in 2006, and when Mindy takes over to tell the part of the story that Richard is unable to, I have to admit I was holding back tears - something I've only ever had to do once with a book before (HP and the Deathly Hallows, since you ask). From a TG fan perspective it gives great insight into the bond between the presenters which they always joke about is non-existent, but which you learn in this is so much more deep than you could imagine.
For someone who is not into TG and just picked this up to read the true story of a horrible accident and the tough impact it has on a man, his family and everyone who loves him, combined with being in the media spotlight and the complications which comes with it, this is a perfect read.
I have read many, many books. I am a student of literature. This book is still one of the best I have ever, and probably will ever, read. It is touching, but has humor, it is filled with love and heart, and shows how hard it is coping with brain injury, or indeed any injury, both from the person's perspective but also from the people surrounding the affected.
If you do not tear up while reading the book, I dare you to listen to the audiobook and try not to tear up when Mindy starts narrating her part and you can listen to how hard it is for her to read it aloud. If you are not affected you are not human.
I bow down to Richard and Mindy Hammond for this fantastic book which I have read many times.
For someone who is not into TG and just picked this up to read the true story of a horrible accident and the tough impact it has on a man, his family and everyone who loves him, combined with being in the media spotlight and the complications which comes with it, this is a perfect read.
I have read many, many books. I am a student of literature. This book is still one of the best I have ever, and probably will ever, read. It is touching, but has humor, it is filled with love and heart, and shows how hard it is coping with brain injury, or indeed any injury, both from the person's perspective but also from the people surrounding the affected.
If you do not tear up while reading the book, I dare you to listen to the audiobook and try not to tear up when Mindy starts narrating her part and you can listen to how hard it is for her to read it aloud. If you are not affected you are not human.
I bow down to Richard and Mindy Hammond for this fantastic book which I have read many times.
August 23, 2015
Now, I should preface this by pointing out that I’m not exactly a massive Richard Hammond fan – I don’t hate the guy, and he doesn’t annoy me as much as Jeremy Clarkson, but neither do I worship his every move and catch every programme that he creates. In fact, I’m not even sure how I came to own this book – I probably bought it on a whim at a charity shop.
And really, it does exactly what you’d expect it to – it covers the majority of Hammond’s life, with a particular focus on the car crash that almost killed him. Along the way, he receives a helping hand from Mindy, his wife who also happens to be the more talented writer of the two, and so you get to see two sides of his story.
That said, I didn’t find it particularly interesting, and it’s pretty much average for a celebrity autobiography – there are many worse examples and there are many better ones, and so unless you’re a particular fan of Hammond’s then you may as well go and read something else. Gordon Ramsay’s autobiographies, for example, are phenomenal, and I can say that because I’m not really a foodie.
Still, there are plenty of redeeming factors too, like the glossy photographs inside and the quality of the writing and editing, both of which are professionally done. Even now, when the book is a little out of date, it does at least offer up a snapshot of how the hamster got where he is today, and there’s also plenty of juicy details for petrol-heads and Top Gear fans who are more interested in cars than people. Hopefully that helps you to figure out which audience you belong to.
And really, it does exactly what you’d expect it to – it covers the majority of Hammond’s life, with a particular focus on the car crash that almost killed him. Along the way, he receives a helping hand from Mindy, his wife who also happens to be the more talented writer of the two, and so you get to see two sides of his story.
That said, I didn’t find it particularly interesting, and it’s pretty much average for a celebrity autobiography – there are many worse examples and there are many better ones, and so unless you’re a particular fan of Hammond’s then you may as well go and read something else. Gordon Ramsay’s autobiographies, for example, are phenomenal, and I can say that because I’m not really a foodie.
Still, there are plenty of redeeming factors too, like the glossy photographs inside and the quality of the writing and editing, both of which are professionally done. Even now, when the book is a little out of date, it does at least offer up a snapshot of how the hamster got where he is today, and there’s also plenty of juicy details for petrol-heads and Top Gear fans who are more interested in cars than people. Hopefully that helps you to figure out which audience you belong to.
October 31, 2015
Whilst filming an episode of Top Gear, driving an extremely fast jet powered car, Richard Hammond was in a horfic crash. He survived, however with severe head trauma. This is his story of the crash and his recovery, partly written by his wife Mindy who chronicles the days and weeks after the crash when Richard's short term memory problems means he has very few memories of this time.
As always Richard's sections are full of wit and humour. I laughed out loud, I cringed when he mentioned that before his last run of the day, the one where the accident occured, he suddenly thought of some advice a race driver had given him. The advice was, never to drive with a full bladder, as if you crashed, there was a chance it could burst, at this thought Richard decided that maybe he could do with the toilet before getting into the car, almost as if he knew what was going to happen.
Whilst reading Mindy's sections of her vigil over his bedside, her agony when he didn't really recognise her and said he had to stop talking to her, as he was married, and that no, she couldn't be his wife, his wife was French, brought tears to my eyes.
It is an emotional rollercoaster of a book, one which I enjoyed immensely, and despite the fact that I have always loved Richard Hammond, I now have a new respect and admiration for his fight back to health, and he is a role model for all those recovering from brain injuries.
I would definitely recommend this as it is an inspiring read.
As always Richard's sections are full of wit and humour. I laughed out loud, I cringed when he mentioned that before his last run of the day, the one where the accident occured, he suddenly thought of some advice a race driver had given him. The advice was, never to drive with a full bladder, as if you crashed, there was a chance it could burst, at this thought Richard decided that maybe he could do with the toilet before getting into the car, almost as if he knew what was going to happen.
Whilst reading Mindy's sections of her vigil over his bedside, her agony when he didn't really recognise her and said he had to stop talking to her, as he was married, and that no, she couldn't be his wife, his wife was French, brought tears to my eyes.
It is an emotional rollercoaster of a book, one which I enjoyed immensely, and despite the fact that I have always loved Richard Hammond, I now have a new respect and admiration for his fight back to health, and he is a role model for all those recovering from brain injuries.
I would definitely recommend this as it is an inspiring read.
March 14, 2011
Richard Hammond is one of the presenters of the hit BBC series TOP GEAR. It's supposed to be all about cars, but it's not. It's about the people who love them and drive them. It's about the guys on the show mocking and having a laugh at the others expense. It's just much more than another "car" show.
That said, wow, I had no idea that Richard Hammond is a miracle man. I knew he'd had a serious jet car crash in 2006, but I had no clue about how serious it was or how he managed to recover to the point of being functional again.
The crash caused severe brain trauma and quite frankly, from the details I read, it's amazing that he survived much less recovered.
The book is partly his story, but it's also his wife's story. Over half the book is written by Mindy Hammond who tells what it was like for her receiving that terrible call and what she and her girls went through as they helped Richard through his recovery. Richard admits that he has little or no memory of his time in the hospital. His rehab time is spotty as is the first season of his return to the show. He is, however, doing much better now in terms of his short term memory function and recall.
It's an amazing and compelling story. I am even more impressed by both he and his wife than I ever was before. It's well worth reading.
That said, wow, I had no idea that Richard Hammond is a miracle man. I knew he'd had a serious jet car crash in 2006, but I had no clue about how serious it was or how he managed to recover to the point of being functional again.
The crash caused severe brain trauma and quite frankly, from the details I read, it's amazing that he survived much less recovered.
The book is partly his story, but it's also his wife's story. Over half the book is written by Mindy Hammond who tells what it was like for her receiving that terrible call and what she and her girls went through as they helped Richard through his recovery. Richard admits that he has little or no memory of his time in the hospital. His rehab time is spotty as is the first season of his return to the show. He is, however, doing much better now in terms of his short term memory function and recall.
It's an amazing and compelling story. I am even more impressed by both he and his wife than I ever was before. It's well worth reading.
September 23, 2013
I found this autobiography by Richard Hammond extremely intriguing. Top Gear UK is my favorite television show and when I heard about this book I knew I had to read it. It goes into detail about a terrible accident that Richard Hammond suffered when he crashed a jet powered drag race car in 2006 while filming for Top Gear. He was going over 300 mph when one of the front tires on the car burst. This caused the car to barrel roll multiple times and take heavy damage. Hammond was later rushed to the hospital and obviously survived. Hammond writes in this book about his life leading up to the crash. He tells the story of his youth about he had a dare devil persona even as a kid trying stunts on his bicycle. Richard Hammond gives stories of his first jobs and girlfriends and just other little details of his life. He explains how incredibly nervous he was when auditioning for his role on Top Gear.
The part of the book about the after crash experience is written by Hammond's wife. She tells about how she kept his condition hidden from their kids until she knew he'd be ok. She gives the story of getting the phone call from the producer of Top Gear about Richard's accident. She tells about how Richard had to basically learn how to fine tune his motor skills again. Overall this a great book for any Top Gear fan.
The part of the book about the after crash experience is written by Hammond's wife. She tells about how she kept his condition hidden from their kids until she knew he'd be ok. She gives the story of getting the phone call from the producer of Top Gear about Richard's accident. She tells about how Richard had to basically learn how to fine tune his motor skills again. Overall this a great book for any Top Gear fan.
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