I loved this book

The title says it all. I didn't know much about David Mitchell, apart from some appearances on Qi and his Soapbox online (his shows are not on the telly here). It was his soapbox that caused me to download this book and I am glad I did. An autobiography is a very personal thing and, when being narrated by the author, can draw the reader (listener) in more than a third party can. But it can also come across as a bit self indulgent if you don't look out. David has ensured he has not crossed that line. He is honest and forthright about the times he could have done better (and not in a way that comes across as "Oh look at me, I am flawed, have overcome them and therefore you have even more reasons to admire me"). His writing style is such that you really enjoy listening to his story. The books structure of walking around London, that in turn brings up memories is a wonderful way to set up each chapter.



As for the narration. The best way to listen to an autobiography is when it is read by the author. This is a clear example of this. Davids' reading is a pleasure to listen to.

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Very funny and well written

Would you consider the audio edition of David Mitchell: Back Story to be better than the print version?

Yes, David made the book come alive.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Defiantly David as he seems to bare all and tell the truth no matter how unbearable or embarrassing.

Which scene did you most enjoy?

The Caravan and the Lobster or equally his student years.

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

Who me? A snap shot of David Mitchell

Any additional comments?

Very funny and well written. The book based on his walk around London, genius.

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Laughing like a loon on the tube

If you could sum up David Mitchell: Back Story in three words, what would they be?

I loved this book. David's perspective on life and situations is probably close to everyone else's. However he tells it so well and in a manner we all wish we could.

This made me laugh for days of commutes to work.

Loved it.

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Amusing, heartfelt and thoughtful

A wonderful autobiography that deftly tells an enjoyable story in an amusing way. While not exactly the most thrilling or action packed audiobook, the narrative is well presented, with the framing device allowing for more flexibility in chronology and subject than a standard life story might. Full of good chuckles and occasionally touching moments, it's exactly the kind of audiobook that accompanies a cup of tea and a biscuit.

David Mitchell also lends this audiobook version a great deal of character, and his performance makes me glad I opted to listen to this rather than read it.

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The new Stephen Fry...!

Funny stuff. He's got an amusing way with words. Only lapses in to Alan Partridge style self-regard on a couple of occasions...

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Entertaining and honest.

A good book that was humorous and honest. The ending was quite sudden but that could be because another book is on the horizon?

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Witty, great delivery.

What this book may lack in trials or grit, it makes up for in humour. David Mitchell's life thus far hasn't been the arduous, difficult, tragic journey that many other autobiographies include, but is very relate-able, honest, and funny.



I'm not normally a fan of autobiographies, but I love David's humour and it really comes across in this, with the writing style, the narration and David's skewed observations. If you're a fan of any of his work, odds are you'll enjoy 9 hours more of it.

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Honest and witty

Superbly written and superbly read, He’s very honest about his/our normal human failings, and last bit is wonderfully uplifting. Also love hearing about the landmarks and history of his walks very very good indeed

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If you like David Mitchell, you'll like this!

Funny & easy to listen to & an excellent insight into the life of Mark...

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Clever, thought provoking, funny, life affirming.

Would you consider the audio edition of David Mitchell: Back Story to be better than the print version?

It’s a squillion times better listening to Mr Mitchell’s inimitable nasal voice!

What about David Mitchell’s performance did you like?

Nobody does this genre better

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