Even Better Than Expected

I anticipated this would be a good book, but it exceeded my expectations. A good old Warrington lad became one of the best, and arguably most underrated, actors of his generation. His love of his chosen profession is clear and, as his story unfolds, you realise there are many more great roles in great films than you'd first thought. I loved it.

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A spectacle of dust

Wow! This is a fantastic book, probably one of the best autobiographies that I have ever 'read'. Written with honesty and a whit that only Pete Postlethwaite could deliver. Thank you!

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An Extraordinary Life

This has got to be the best written, best presented and most engaging autobiography I have ever listened to. From early beginnings in the priesthood to teaching and then to full-time acting Postlethwaite never once sacrificed his standards or allowed himself to be swayed against his will.

Quite probably the busiest actor ever he weaves a tale of such interest, such exhilarating highs and devastating lows, that the listener is swept along, with each chapter bringing new and greater challenges that Postlethwaite not only rose to, but overcame.

But never did he allow himself to get caught up in the heady glitz of the Hollywood Set nor did he ever forget who he was or where his roots truly lay.

And then the final chapter where he has to face terminal cancer; without a doubt some of the most moving words I have ever heard.

An extraordinary man and an extraordinary life.

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6 people found this helpful

This was not a story, it was a life!

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loved Pete, to anyone who loved the world actors or, indeed, to anyone.

What other book might you compare A Spectacle of Dust to, and why?

I think I can only compare it to a good book, because I have never come across anything that makes a loved person return, as this does.

What does Philip Jackson bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you had only read the book?

Reading the book, could never make Pete come back to life, as this does. It brought back memories of his voice and nuances, I would never have expected. I love Philip's work too, but he has excelled himself here. Please can you ensure that he gets to read this. He did Pete proud.

If you made a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

I don't think a film could be made, Pete was an exceptional actor and I don't think that he could be replicated.

Any additional comments?

I would like the author who worked alongside Pete to be complemented on the quality of his work. My condolences to Pete's beloved family.

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1 person found this helpful

Moving read

What a great man. Pete’s love for his family, and the passion for his trade comes through strongly. I’d recommend this book.

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Did not disappoint - offers hope and positivity

I enjoyed this book. Having admired the amazing work of PP I was intrigued to know the story behind the image.

As a cancer patient I was also a little nervous of what I might hear.

The book is very well narrated by Philip Jackson, a very great talent himself, but his narration complimented the story, not overshadowing the biography at all.

Overall I feel inspired by the mindfulness of Mr Postlethewaite

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1 person found this helpful

Fantastic actor

An honest account of a humble man who just wanted to act. A credit to the man and his family.

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Breathtaking

Always liked Peter and this was a very touching book and with the events was very touching. Great read and a must you will love it

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2 people found this helpful

clear his name. job done.

Great book and actor, very sad warm ending.
very interesting biography by the legend himself, a shame he isnt around to narrate it.

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solid down to earth actor Who tells it straight

the final chapter made me cry so humbling to hear his final stage call

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