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Robin Williams

By: Emily Herbert
Narrated by: Marston York
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Publisher's 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

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

Brilliant

Wonderful narrator , great story . A must listen for any fans of Robin Williams . Sad but also many laughs

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1 person found this helpful

  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars
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Kinda yeah kinda nah

There were good part but other parts were like a list of stuff was being read out. Slightly informative. Pretty sad too. It was ok.

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

A great loss

it was very sad and poignant. Robin like many was too sensitive for this world! He was a comedic genius and a beautiful soul. There will never be anyone come close. RIP Robin we miss you.

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

An outsider's account

I was hoping more of "who he was" rather than a description of "what he'd done". I guess this is what you get from an outsider's account, rather than an autobiography.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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A profound listen

Really enjoyed this, was an interesting listen. I feel very sad as he was such a wonderful man and he has gone too soon.

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

Mediocrity in lists

Skates across the surface of what should have been a very engaging read. Regurgitates “stats” or quotes without actually telling a story - Hugely annoying habit of narrating lists of information eg awards or movies or reviews …… borders on boring and one dimensional ….. such a wasted opportunity

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

How can this be?

Look, I embarked on this journey with the thought that this should be really good. But I can’t say it was. It’s very dry and all framed around Williams’ death and the impact that had on people, rather than being a celebration of the life of genius.
I did persevere all the way through but I am leaving it behind feeling flat because I don’t think this was a worthwhile exploration of a life. It was pretty meh.

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

An interesting and emotional read

I enjoyed that it follows the highs and lows of his career. Told from the point of view of an outsider. I did find the narrator very easy to tune out from so missed a lot of it at times. Not quite as engaging as other biographies I have read.

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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

Not sure about this one

I found this to be just a synopsis of Robin Williams films and their success or lack there of. I wanted more about the man, perhaps some live recordings of some of his work. Perhaps interviews with those that knew him. That he was an amazing talent and compassionate man is not in question but I think this book doesn’t do him justice.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Humanity

Unseen Depths of peoples lives that you come to think are right in front of you. Sadly enlightening.

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