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Robin Williams cover art

Robin Williams

By: Emily Herbert
Narrated by: Marston York
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Summary

With his twinkling eyes, boundless energy and unrivalled natural wit, Robin Williams was the comedian who brought laughter to a generation.

Through roles in cherished films such as Mrs. Doubtfire, Jumanji, Aladdin and Hook, he became the genial face of family comedy. His child-like enthusiasm was infectious, sweeping viewers away. Allied to his lightning-quick improvisation and ability to riff lewdly off any cue thrown at him, Robin was that rare thing - a true comic genius who appealed to adults and children equally.

He could also play it straight, and empathetic depth came to him naturally. A poignant performance in Good Will Hunting won him an Academy Award whilst his masterfully chilling turn in psychological thriller Insomnia shocked audiences and hinted at a darker side.

What truly caught the imagination, though, was his good-heartedness. Warmth radiated from him on-screen, but he was legendary for his off-screen acts of selfless generosity. Where most Hollywood A-listers demand outrageous pampering in their contract riders, he always insisted that the production company hire a full quota of homeless people to help make his movies.

But behind the laughter lay a deeply troubled man, and tragedy would follow. At midday, on 11th August 2014, Robin Williams was pronounced dead at his California home. The verdict was suicide. He had battled depression and addiction for many years and was allegedly beset by financial difficulties.

Virginia Blackburn's sensitive and thoughtful biography celebrates his genius and warmth, but also attempts to understand what could have driven such a gentle and gifted man to so tragic an end.

©2018 Emily Herbert (P)2018 W. F. Howes Ltd

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What listeners say about Robin Williams

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Excellent brilliant read. x

Loved every bit entertaining and sad . Would recommend to all my family and friends.

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

could be retitled understanding mental illness

loved it great subject, didnt need to hear all of the reviews critics suck

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  • Overall
    3 out of 5 stars
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    2 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars

only a middling book

As an audio book the narrator was not suited to read this book, also his attempt at portraying robins jokes at the end was monotone.

sadly this book was not wrote by robin so the author attempted to summarise Robin's life through his movies & acting. I guess if robin had of been interviewed for the book we might of gotten a more personal view of this comedy genius that he was.

quite depressing portrayal of robin when there was so much more to him on the inside.

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3 people found this helpful

  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
  • Performance
    5 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

So sad!

A good listen. Sad life of a very funny man.
Read beautifully and an insight into the mind of a clever comic.
Really sad life!

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  • Overall
    3 out of 5 stars
  • Performance
    4 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars

You never realised how amazing you where.

I'm glad I listened to this book but found it sad as a fan, who has always found him such a talented. By the sounds of things so did everyone else.
I did find it hard to listen to as it made me feel sad.

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  • Overall
    3 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars
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    2 out of 5 stars

The star could shine brighter

Efficient, clear narrator but a bit emotionless for such a vibrant chatter. Too many references about reviews, enjoy ed the dialogue behind his films and how he played the roles. May be mirexsbout his friendships, more examples of his charity a lot referred to his lovely nature not many stories or told in a way you could you could feel that connection. Great ending and very Robbin Williams to hear his humour. And

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  • Overall
    3 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars

Disappointed

Overall I was disappointed with the book. I am a big fan of Robin Williams, but there is nothing new or interesting here that most 1-hour documentaries wouldn't cover. The constant quoting of critics is annoying and in my opinion unnecessary unless this was the goal of the book. Also, the naming of all characters in every film, as well as giving their real name, while also giving the plotline of the film, is again unnecessary and take too much time away from the main character in this book, namely "Robin Williams.'

For someone unfamiliar with his work and his life, maybe it gives some good details, but for any real fan, most things covered are well known already

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4 people found this helpful

  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

out standing

it is such a same such a fantastic person is no longer here now .

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  • Overall
    3 out of 5 stars
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    1 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars

very monotone reader

too many quotes followed by "robin Williams". the reader would put you to sleep too.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

A tragic story

It took me about 2 to 3 weeks to get through this. I remember the first chapter being really interesting, but also tragic, as it explored his suicide. This book also explores how the world reacted to his death, and also what could’ve caused it. Having listened to the story I am really surprised at his death, especially how he was so loved around the world. This book demonstrates that mental health and depression can really affect your life and even take your life. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about Robins life, and I won’t forget this book. If you’re interested in Robin Williams, then you will like this book. However, please note, there is a lot of mention of mental illness, suicide and drugs.

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