An Entertaining Life

by Harry Secombe, Charles III

The late Sir Harry Secombe was known and loved throughout the world as a comedian, singer, and Goon, and his death in 2001 prompted many tributes to his great talent and kindness. He also proved himself to be a writer of considerable wit and caliber, with two bestselling novels and the highly praised first and second volumes of his autobiography, entitled Arias and Raspberries and Strawberries and Cheam. An Entertaining Life brings together both volumes of Harry Secombe's autobiography—covering his childhood, the war, Variety, the Goons and on—and includes an additional section covering the last few years of his life. This commemorative volume, funny and moving by turn, encapsulates the perceptions of one of Britain's foremost entertainers and illustrates why he became so well-loved.

432 pages, Paperback

Published October 1, 2004

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75/5⭐️ Would I have liked more of this over-400pg autobiography to spend time on The Goon Show? Yes, definitely. Did I still like learning more about Harry’s life, family, and career outside of the piece of media I love him for the most? Also yes! What a nice ma he was and what joy he brought to the world. Off to listen to an ep of The Goon Show in his honor!

[Darla Ebert · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had no idea who Harry Secombe was until I read this very well-written series of memoirs. It was a fun book with plenty to chuckle about. I wish I had known of the Goons and other works of this comedian earlier in life. Not only was he a prolific comic, but Secombe was a dedicated family man with deep religious roots (however one interprets this) and he served, bravely, in World War 2. It seems people only ever have great things to say about this great man.