At the start of November there was the chance to meet Russell Kane at Waterstones in Birmingham. This was an opportunity I could not let slip by, as I am a fan of Kane’s comedy (you may remember in August I went to a recording of his podcast ‘Evil Genius’). So, I am now a proud owner of a signed copy of his autobiography, ‘Son of a Silverback’.
This is a wonderful autobiograpy because, rather than Kane just taking us step by step through his life, it examines the relationship he had with his father. And, yet this is still cleverly done, as this is all about the influence his dad had over his life, and how that has shaped the path that Russell Kane has taken.
Russell Kane’s father was an alpha male, a product of his time who had his ideas, views and beliefs and he stuck to them. They may not be ideas that his son always agreed with, and Kane certainly did not fit into the clearly defined mould his father thought he should. However, it appears through the memoir that this did not hold Kane back, but at points, indeed, spurred him on.
Throughout the book, Russell Kane also analyses his own character and personality, considering the impact that they have had on his decisions and relationships with those around him.
This book is beautifully written and the ‘story’ told with warmth, emotion and, of course, humour. I really enjoyed this book, as it is honest; this is not a memoir to impress but a book to inform. And, for some, even support, if they feel any of their relationships or experiences are similar.
It has certainly made me want to ensure that I treasure time with my dad. A wonderful read for Non-fiction November.