Mike Farrell Books

Everyone has heard of this trial. However, until I heard this rendition of the trial and play I wasn't as interested. This play sheds new light on it and makes it so much more interesting and actually brought it to life for me.

Rev. Joe Ingle has spent an incredible amount of time with men and women on death row. In this book he tells the stories of men and women who have been executed as well as the stories of their families. The book is gripping from the very beginning to the end. Rev. Ingle will challenge your thinking on the death penalty, and will help you see more clearly the grace and mercy of Christ.

Farrell's "Northern Ireland: The Orange State" is tough to find but well worth the effort for those seriously interested in the history and politics of Northern Ireland. Written in 1976 by a committed Irish republican and socialist, this not the book for someone with no prior background in Northern Irish history. Yet the same characteristics that make it unsuitable for newcomers to the topic -- its age and biased viewpoint -- make it valuable for students of Northern Ireland.

Farrell's history is not simply a curiosity, however. His treatment of Northern Ireland's early history (1920s through 1950s) is far more in-depth than more recent texts, which tend to gloss over the state's formation and pick up the story with the beginning of the present "Troubles" in the late 1960s. Additionally, Farrell is a good history writer and his narrative style is often more engaging than more recent, balanced accounts. Those who read extensively on Northern Ireland and wish to add a unique volume to their shelves would do well to track down a copy of this book.

This film lets you see just how bad the British really are. Americans, don't forget we fought a similar war to get out from under their thumb. They dubbed us terrorists then just as they dub the IRA terrorists. Forget the Middle East, free Ireland George!

Very dramatic without being a "Hollywood" type of film. Shows how awful the Brits actually were to Catholics in the North. Must see.

The tragic riot known as "Bloody Sunday" is recreated to powerful effect in this film, shot in pseudo-documentary style by Paul Greengrass. The film unfolds virtually in real-time, so the viewer feels like an eyewitness to tragedy. While not for the faint of heart, "Bloody Sunday" serves as both highly visceral shocker and edifying political drama.

If you grew up with the Irish Civil War a constant part of the evening news, you don't want to miss this movie. James Nesbitt (Jekyll) portrays an Irish member of Parliament who is trying to make peace between the IRA and the British Government. A peaceful rally goes bad, and the horrors of the conflict come to life. The way it was filmed (hand-held cameras) lend an air of reality and the incredible sadness. This movie is based on actual events that took place in Ireland during that time. It held my attention the entire time. Highly recommended.

Paul Greengrass, who brought us the powerful and controversial "United 93," made a stunning film about the events that transpired on January 30, 1972 in Londonderry. Greengrass presents the film in a documentary fashion, giving the impression that you are observing the events as they take place. On that day, the Civil Rights Movement, led by MP Ivan Cooper, were determined to march in spite of an official ban on all such gatherings. The Northern Ireland Civil Rights Association fought against many abuses of power on the part of the Northern Ireland administration, but the core issue was the abolition of Operation Demetrius, or internment. Basically, British soldiers could arrest and intern those suspected of being paramilitary groups without charge or trial.

Cooper, who came from a rural Protestant background, wanted only a peaceful march. He urged IRA members not to bring weapons to the march, and advised youth who were harassed by soldiers to "just walk away." Unfortunately, due to high-levels of IRA/British soldier clashes, the "Paras" (1st Battalion of the British Parachute Regiment) were out in force. In addition, despite Cooper's pleas to the contrary, armed "Provos" (members of the Provisional Irish Republican Army) were present. It's still not clear how it began, but shots were fired, and the Paras killed 14 unarmed marchers and wounded several others. The film clearly implies that the British shot first, though that's something that may never be determined with certainty.

Shortly after the events of Bloody Sunday, the British government convened an inquiry known as the Widgery Inquiry. It absolved all the British soldiers of responsibility. In response to political pressure, Tony Blair launched the Saville Inquiry, which as of now has yet to release a report.

In the final part of the film, with Ivan Cooper and other Civil Rights leaders speaking at a press conference after the events, Cooper says: "I'd like to say to the British government- you know what you've done, don't you? You've destroyed the Civil Rights Movement. Tonight, young men will be lining up to join the IRA, and you will reap a whirlwind." His words proved to be prophetic. Had Bloody Sunday not happened, it's likely that the Civil Rights Movement could have achieved what the Good Friday and St. Andrews Agreements are now achieving.

The acting and direction in this movie are top-noptch. Even though the viewer knows what's going to happen, one feels a certain amount of suspense. The interment issue has an eerily contemporary ring to it, and this film shows the dangers of a militarized police force. The two featurettes on the DVD are quite informative as well. In sum, this movie is highly recommended, both for history fans and those who want to use the lessons of history to change the future.

This film lets you see just how bad the British really are. Americans, don't forget we fought a similar war to get out from under their thumb. They dubbed us terrorists then just as they dub the IRA terrorists. Forget the Middle East, free Ireland George!

Very dramatic without being a "Hollywood" type of film. Shows how awful the Brits actually were to Catholics in the North. Must see.

The tragic riot known as "Bloody Sunday" is recreated to powerful effect in this film, shot in pseudo-documentary style by Paul Greengrass. The film unfolds virtually in real-time, so the viewer feels like an eyewitness to tragedy. While not for the faint of heart, "Bloody Sunday" serves as both highly visceral shocker and edifying political drama.

If you grew up with the Irish Civil War a constant part of the evening news, you don't want to miss this movie. James Nesbitt (Jekyll) portrays an Irish member of Parliament who is trying to make peace between the IRA and the British Government. A peaceful rally goes bad, and the horrors of the conflict come to life. The way it was filmed (hand-held cameras) lend an air of reality and the incredible sadness. This movie is based on actual events that took place in Ireland during that time. It held my attention the entire time. Highly recommended.

Paul Greengrass, who brought us the powerful and controversial "United 93," made a stunning film about the events that transpired on January 30, 1972 in Londonderry. Greengrass presents the film in a documentary fashion, giving the impression that you are observing the events as they take place. On that day, the Civil Rights Movement, led by MP Ivan Cooper, were determined to march in spite of an official ban on all such gatherings. The Northern Ireland Civil Rights Association fought against many abuses of power on the part of the Northern Ireland administration, but the core issue was the abolition of Operation Demetrius, or internment. Basically, British soldiers could arrest and intern those suspected of being paramilitary groups without charge or trial.

Cooper, who came from a rural Protestant background, wanted only a peaceful march. He urged IRA members not to bring weapons to the march, and advised youth who were harassed by soldiers to "just walk away." Unfortunately, due to high-levels of IRA/British soldier clashes, the "Paras" (1st Battalion of the British Parachute Regiment) were out in force. In addition, despite Cooper's pleas to the contrary, armed "Provos" (members of the Provisional Irish Republican Army) were present. It's still not clear how it began, but shots were fired, and the Paras killed 14 unarmed marchers and wounded several others. The film clearly implies that the British shot first, though that's something that may never be determined with certainty.

Shortly after the events of Bloody Sunday, the British government convened an inquiry known as the Widgery Inquiry. It absolved all the British soldiers of responsibility. In response to political pressure, Tony Blair launched the Saville Inquiry, which as of now has yet to release a report.

In the final part of the film, with Ivan Cooper and other Civil Rights leaders speaking at a press conference after the events, Cooper says: "I'd like to say to the British government- you know what you've done, don't you? You've destroyed the Civil Rights Movement. Tonight, young men will be lining up to join the IRA, and you will reap a whirlwind." His words proved to be prophetic. Had Bloody Sunday not happened, it's likely that the Civil Rights Movement could have achieved what the Good Friday and St. Andrews Agreements are now achieving.

The acting and direction in this movie are top-noptch. Even though the viewer knows what's going to happen, one feels a certain amount of suspense. The interment issue has an eerily contemporary ring to it, and this film shows the dangers of a militarized police force. The two featurettes on the DVD are quite informative as well. In sum, this movie is highly recommended, both for history fans and those who want to use the lessons of history to change the future.

This book is terrible. Mike Farrel blabs on about nothing important and his thoughts are random and unorganized. There is no structure to the book and nothing to take from it. The book reads like a kid in high school wrote it.

Although the trajectory of Mike Farrell's life might not be the stuff of timeless autobiography, it's interesting, educational, and primed me for hearing him at a speaker's event in the near future. There's some actor's insight here, but he doesn't dwell on that part of his life (M*A*S*H for him was a chance ride into lifelong celebrity). His family life is the typical married young and then had kids, "We weren't on the same page" divorce, and successful remarriage with children becoming high achievers. And his world travels to observe and testify of various wars and other political and social disasters turns out to be mostly by referral and invitation, not self-appointment. I can't say I disagree with him about anything. Mike Farrell has come far, he appreciates what he's been given, and earned, and his autobiography is a worthwhile pass-along book.

This personal account of the life of a personality known to millions exceeded my expectations. Although an autobiography, it goes beyond the typical remembrances of a life lived outside of and in the spotlight, pushing past the usual, and manages to inspire, and to make you think.
Mike Farrell's integrity and commitment to humanity, to making the world a better place, are not just conveyed throughout the chapters of this book in his own words, but have been demonstrated in perpetuity by his selfless actions on behalf of mankind. This book is missing an important word in the subtitle- It should have been called "Just Call Me Mike- The Journey From Actor to Activist to TEACHER." An educator, he is indeed.
M. A. Moore
The Family Press

Mike Farrell's autobiography traces a life that moves from an actor who worked on MASH and other major productions to becoming an activist. His brand of 'citizen activism' takes him from TV set to the streets, using the influence that accompanied his celebrity image to contribute to humanitarian works which are his real passion. His autobiography traces his evolution from a California actor to activist and provides an inspirational tale of change for a wide audience, from prior fans of his career to newcomers who may have never heard his name, but will appreciate the transition story. Public lending libraries, especially those strong in film or celebrity stories, will want this.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

I am a conservative, over 20 years served, active duty US Marine, currently deployed to Baghdad Iraq. I am guessing some readers would wonder why I read the book. I know Mr Farrell is a little to the left, so what. I have enjoyed hearing his opinions on various political shows over the years so that I can hear what the left has to say. He has always been polite and respectful to all opinions, so I gave it a shot. I was not dissapointed, he tells a great story of how he became who he is, to include his time in the US Marines. I almost laugh at the thought of him serving, but I believe from reading this book Mr Farrell loves his country and is a patriot, just with differing opinions from my own and I salute his service to our country. You will read some about MASH, his childhood and how he became a activist. Be warned, he is harsh to conservatives, which I did not agree with, but I respect his right to speak out, and speak out he does. Maybe a little too much conservatie bashing, he could have got his point across with less, but overall a good read, just have a open mind, and if you are looking for a book only about MASH, this is not it. Semper Fi Mr Farrell, I enjoyed your book.

...and thought it was really good. I took me less than a week to read, and stayed up way too late one night to finish it. I normally don't like the way Stephen King ends his book, but I liked this one. It was a bit of an odd story, but was a good one none-the-less. If you like Stephen King, you will enjoy this book. It was one of the better books of his I have read.

Purchased from Amazon, it was entertaining and predictable, and the bargain price was appropriate. But after the contemptible comments that little stevie made regarding our troops earlier this week, it's headed for the garbage, and will be the last Stephen King item I ever purchase. King claims that he knows some members of the National Guard from there in Bangor - if so, I hope that he gets the opportunity to run into a few.

I loved this book i didn't want to put it down. i read most of it on the first sitting. I'll say the beginning is great. I must say the ending is disappointing. it leaves a lot of questions. all in all i really enjoyed reading this so much so that after i was done i bought From a Buick 8 and thats what I'm reading now. I guess I'm a new King fan!!!

This might have been an interesting idea for a short story (like du Maurier's The Birds), it might even have made an interesting novel if planned properly (like Crichton's Prey), but King just lets the narrative ramble on in a meandering way. The main characters are tourists for much of the story. They walk a lot and they look a lot, but they don't do much, and the things they do consist mainly of blowing things up; the American Way, perhaps, but hardly imaginative storytelling. It isn't even scary, because so little happens. If it weren't for King's fluency of language it would have been a torment to read.

This book jumps right in at around page seven and takes off until the last page.

I see how people might compare to "The Stand" and complain that it is 'watered' down, but King goes into detail of each moment that entirely captivates the reader and makes this book a true page turner. I felt like I was in the middle of the story and I was captivated by each event that took place.

I highly recommend it - you will not be disappointed. The Stand is great - don't misunderstand me. However, because of the shorter length of this book, you will be done with the book very quickly.

Enjoy it! I did.