The Treasures of Morecambe & Wise

Book Review from 2013

Gary Morecambe has written many books on his Father and Ernie. They cover all aspects of their lives and careers and usually alongside some great unseen photographs.

The Treasures of Morecambe and Wise is a little different. The book is based around 20 items taken from the personal collection of the great men. It did make me wonder what this book would be. Would it be another selection of photos and some stories about them?

I have to say I was pleasantly surprised with this book. It is a really well thought out and presented item.

There are some wonderful pictures, some obvious, some interesting and some candid. A nicely presented selection, covering their lives.

The book opens with a wonderful introduction from Joan Morecambe. Then Gary takes over.

The narrative of the book is that of Gary recounting his Father and Ernie’s life. There is nothing here that has not been covered in other books, but perhaps it is a little more personal.

I found the latter half of the book very interesting as Gary recalls the late 70s and 80s. Although the print is dauntingly small the book reads well and easily.

The main point if this book is the surprises held within. When I first opened it I noticed something on the inside cover. On a second look it turned out to be 2 reproduction posters. A nice touch I thought.

I read away, enjoying the pictures and stories. On turning a page I was presented with what could only be described as a large envelope. On opening it I found items such as letters and pictures. These are the items of personal memorabilia that the book is based on. Reproductions of items close to the lives of Eric and Ernie. I am not going to reveal what they are but there are items that have been chosen for their variety. If I were to be critical the envelopes may tear easily and Eric’s handwriting can be hard to read!!

This is a great addition to any Morecambe and Wise collection.

I would recommend buying this book new and not of auction sites as I suspect that these special items may get lost over time.

On a side note, this book is also available with a different cover, but the contents are exactley the same.


© morecambeandwise.com 2013


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