Can I Have My Ball Back? cover art

Can I Have My Ball Back?

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Can I Have My Ball Back?

By: Richard Herring
Narrated by: Richard Herring
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About this listen

This exclusive recording includes 4 audio extras that are unique to the audiobook, including interviews with Richard's wife Catie and oncologist Dr Sharma.

If we are cowardly, we are told to grow some

If we're brave, we're said to have huge ones

If it's cold, they are liable to fall off - even if you're a brass monkey

If we're in trouble, someone will threaten to break them

If we have to work hard, we might very well bust them

If we're in somebody's thrall, then they've got us by them

About fifteen years ago, Richard Herring first took part in a campaign to encourage men to have a little (non-sexual) feel of their balls every now and again. But it was embarrassing and weird, and if there was something wrong, he didn't want to know about it.

Anyway, that kind of stuff only happens to other people, doesn't it?

At the start of 2021 Richard Herring was diagnosed with testicular cancer. For a man whose output includes a stand-up tour titled Talking Cock and who regularly interrogates our attitudes towards masculinity, it was a diagnosis that came with additional layers of complexity.

Telling Rich's personal story alongside an exploration of what defines masculinity and 'maleness' in society, Can I Have My Ball Back? is not your typical cancer memoir. Whether they're nuts, bollocks, gonads or family jewels; from the phrase 'grow some balls' to infamous WWII songs about Hitler; Rich unpicks the tangle of emotions around his own testing times.

©2022 Richard Herring (P)2022 Hachette Audio UK
Funny Heartfelt Inspiring Witty Thought-Provoking Comedy

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Critic reviews

'A bollockbuster!' ADAM BUXTON

All stars
Most relevant
Educational, entertaining and touching, so to speak.

I love this guy and everything he does.

Great read, even better listen

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A really enjoyable listen. Richard talks of his experience of being diagnosed with and treated for testicular cancer. Funny throughout, despite the serious topic.

Who knew a book about cancer could be funny?

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As someone who follows Rich's career and someone who is going through testicle-related nonsense myself currently, this was a familiar experience. Fun read with serious messaging. Very silly and oddly relaxing.
Good on you, Mr Herring. Glad you're alive and keep googling yourself 🎳

Bouncy, Squishy and Rounded

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a very lighthearted look at a series subject. A good read but also brings testicular cancer and its treatment to people's attention.

Well handled!

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Funny listen about a horrible subject with some very good insight from diagnosis right through until the end

Comedy in cancer

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