Fearful Symmetry The Essential Guide To All Things Highlander

by John Mosby

The Essential Guide To All Things Highlander

334 pages, Paperback

Published February 29, 2016

Reviews

[Bob James · Rating 5 out of 5]

The great, the good, the bad, and the ugly are all explored here in the most comprehensive journey through the history of Highlander within all the media in which it has appeared that this reader has seen. From the original film on through the television series, and everything in between and beyond. It's both interesting and frustrating to learn exactly how the best Highlander thrived and the, well, not so best, crashed and burned. As a fan, I was left with all that could have been, just hanging in the air, as the multitude of and many missteps and mistakes (mostly by the production team of Panzer/Davis) are related in detail, from many of those involved in production at any given time and in any permutation. I was left with a culture of extremes. When the right roads were taken and Highlander succeeded in effectively telling great stories within the best elements of its mythology (thinking of the original film and the vast majority of the television series), there was indeed, a "kind of magic". Where what seems to be all better sense and integrity failed, there was disaster. And this franchise saw, in my opinion, more of the latter than the former. This is, in my estimate and opinion, the best all inclusive book written on the Highlander universe. Author John Mosby really put in the hard work here, and it's evident. Mosby also maintains a good balance for praising the praiseworthy, and offering level criticism when appropriate. A must for any Highlander lover.

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fascinating read for any Highlander fan! Filled with behind-the-scenes details, in-person interviews, "reports" from the set of many of the films — a thoroughly enjoyable read from start to finish by a longtime fan and writer. It's given me a new appreciation for the films and TV series (yes, even for "Highlander 2" and "The Raven"!).

Do I wish it was better edited? Well, yes. A stronger editor might have reworded some oft-repeated turns of phrase and would have identified the speaker of quotes much earlier in lengthy paragraphs. But maybe those things bother only copyeditors like myself. Anyhow, I would dock mere 1/4 of a star for that annoyance. And, if we round up, it's still a 5-star publication!

[MrBinks · Rating 1 out of 5]

Ordered books directly from the author's site months ago, and still haven't received them. I was first told they shipped (no tracking number). Then I was told the author was "looking into it." After two months, I requested a refund, since no product was ever shipped. After more than three months, I have neither the money nor the books. I wouldn't waste the money. The author isn't honoring orders.