Radio Books

Great to read line-by-line the incredible wit that went into writing this series. (Tip: when you can't hear the mumbling, turn on captioning (if your TV has it) -- you'll catch almost every line, though the captioners sometimes use their own judgement dropping partial phrases).

If you're a fan, you should also put the word out (...to anyone who'll listen, etc.) to request FT on DVD, and as a special edition -- interviews with cast members, behind the scenes info, etc., etc.

This book is almost better than watching the series, as it contains all the scripts--word-for-word. Now you can catch all those witty phrases Basil mumbled to his wife which were lost to those of us without a clear ear for British speech. Yes its all here, all the comedy, the frustration, the dead body, even the rat. If this goes out of print before you get one, you'll kick yourself for years.

I'm a relatively new fan of Fawlty Towers, and I think it's the funniest comedy ever written! This book (in a relatively small tome) encompasses the relatively short series's episodes in script form.

This also solves the problem of lines that we couldn't hear. Sometimes, when watching Fawlty Towers, one can't hear the actor say the line, or the laugh track drowns it out (or, very occasionally, Manuel says something weird). This book allows you to check out the lines.

In addition to that, it's almost as funny on paper as it is on the screen! All it's missing is some way of accurately describing John Cleese's physical humor!

In some ways I prefer reading the scripts to Monty Python's Flying Circus over watching the original TV series (e.g., your imagination does not have the severe budget limits of the show). But reading the scripts to Fawlty Towers, while a fun experience in itself, is not as good as watching the show. The show did have as good of a set as it needed, and the script loses something without getting to see the wonderful physical comedy of the Basil Fawlty and Manuel characters. I don't honestly know if I would find the book as funny without picturing John Cleese's expressions from various episodes from memory. As a result, while I give the book 5 stars for its side-splitting humour, I would still recommend getting the videos instead.

If you love the show "Fawlty Towers," than this book is for you. This book contains the complete scripts to every single episode that was out. I was very surprised that such a thing even exstisted, and I was very happy to purchase it since I love the show so much.

This is a great read for many reasons. If you love the show, then you will love reading the scripts. It is very much like reliving the show. I still found myself laughing while reading, although it is funnier seen on screen, so I do not suggest that you get this over the shows. This is only for fans of the show who have seen all of the episodes.

Another reason why I liked this so much was because the shows were so chaotic and rapid, it was hard to catch every single word. Basil would mouth off to his wife in a very low and quiet tone, so it would be hard to get every single word. The accents also make it hard to understand what they're saying sometimes.

My favorite episodes, both in here and the shows themselves, are: "Gourmet Night," "The Hotel Inspectors," "The Germans," "Communication Problems," "Waldorf Salad," "The Builders," and "Basil the Rat."

All in all, a very funny companion to the show. I really enjoyed reading this, and I am sure that I will read it over and over again. Every page is filled with nothing but some of the funniest lines you will ever read on paper. Just imagine John Cleese verbally and phsyically abusing Manuel, and you've got yourself a great time! Filled with witty humor, razor sharp comeback, the most outrageous situations, and the most memorable characters, "The Complete Fawlty Towers" is a fine companion to the show and is a must-have for all fans. If you love the show, get this book. I don't think you will regret it.

Ever wanted to know neat facts on Adventures In Odyssey? This is the book! Read Today!

This book was excellent! It was loaded with tons of information about the radio series and Odyssey itself. This is a must-have for every AIO fan. The only problem I had with it was it is 6 years old (as of 2002). Other than that it was great! Buy the book!

Have you ever wanted to know when Connie Kindle came aboard. What about Eugene Meltsner's debut? Why does Mister Wittikar walk with a limb? Did you know the top of his ear is missing? Find out all about it, and more in this wonderful collection of memorabillia, Phil Lollar has done a really good job of this book. It is a treasure to the fans of our friends in Odyssey, GET IT!

It's finally out, Phil Lollar's Complete Guide to Adventures In Odyssey! 300 pages of everything you ever wanted to know about the immensely popular radio show that's spun off into books and videos! You'll re-live favorite episodes, learn about Odyssey characters and actors, go behind the scenes of production, and test your knowledge of the show. Summaries of each episode feature faith-building study questions! Look for it at your local Christian bookstore! Or Order it here! Any Questions Ask Here!

The Complete Guide to Adventures in Odyssey is a great guide to all the episodes, characters and story lines of the Focus on the Family Radio Drama Adventures in Odyssey. It has detailed story lines to every episode, bloppers and facts about the episodes and has early photos of the cast and crew. The only downside was the fact there were not many color pictures in the book. But other then that the book was great.

I have studied many books on Digital Communications but the style of the authors from Digital Receivers point of view is quite nice. It starts from very basics and builds up things gradually... I would recommend this book to every Communication Engineer who is interested in Estimation and Detection !

This is an extremely useful book for any Digital Communication System designer or engineers who wish to develop digital transmitters and (especially) receivers for a given system. Covers all aspects, including recent developments and classic algorithms used for synchronization of digital communication systems. Phase synchronization, timing offset estimation, and frequency offset synchronization are treated in detail. A particularly interesting section about effect (degradation) due to non-synchronized receiver is given. I could not quantitative and intuitive treatment of this topic anywhere else. However, this book is recommended only to those who understand the basic communication theory very well.

The purpose of this book, along with its companion (Synchronization in Digital Communications vol.1, published in 1991), is quite ambitious: a comprehensive coverage on the theory of synchronization in digital communications. Compared with its companion, the treatment presented in this book is quite practical and technical, so the audience may be very limited -- only for communication system engineers and students doing researches on sync theory. The valuable part of this book is the treatment on sync problems over the fading channels, which only can be found sporadically in journal or conference papers. The introductory chapter on the necessary background is quite concise but informative. It is highly recommended for people who want to know more details on the design of digital communications.

This book is an excellent learning tool for those who are already familiar with communication theory and are interested in communication over fading channels. This book also contains very recent work that has not been covered anywhere else, for example, relating estimation theory and information theory. This is highly recommended, but only for those with a strong background in communication theory.

Floyd Gardner has written a comprehensive review in the IEEE Communications Magazine, September 1998, Vol.36 No.)on two recent books on the subject. (one being the book discussed here)

Excerpts "These books are massive, authoritative expositions of synchronization;their authors are long-time researchers in the field. Heretofore there has been no book, to my knowledge that provides a comprehensive up-to-date account of sync.of data signals-until now"

"Both books are directed at advanced graduate students, seasoned practicioners, or active researchers"

(About the book' Digital Communication receiver') "(But) this book is without peer for someone who wants to probe into the underlying foundations of data signal reception, or to cope with difficult fading channels" "

Anyone with an interest in RF design needs this book. The authors are well known and respected in the ham radio community for their prolific writings covering the full range of RF-related topics. The keys to the success of this book are its emphasis on practical solutions and a conversational writing style, not unlike the famous ARRL Handbook for Radio Communications (a.k.a., The Handbook). It focuses on the building blocks of transmitters and receivers, gradually moving from fundaments (e.g., oscillator topologies) to practical building blocks (a stable VFO), and finally to complete systems such as a receiver. Some very useful and straightforward test equipment is also designed. Much of the book is devoted to analog RF/audio design, but the chapters on DSP are quite welcome and again, quite accessible.

Each example is clearly illustrated with clean, consistent, annotated schematics and parts lists and a nice narrative thats walks the reader through the circuit. Above all, they explain exactly WHY that particular funny component was placed in that particular place, and how its value was selected, and what happens if you change its attributes. Theory is not overlooked, either, though they do try to steer away from calculus so far as possible, leaving that to the countless textbooks. References for each chapter are extensive and many are also supplied on the included CD-ROM.

If you have any interest at all in RF design, and especially if you plan on building any equipment, I recommend that you buy this book. You will not be disappointed!

-Gary, WB9JPS

This book is the equivalent of a 2 year college course, at far less cost. Well worth the money.

Any amateur interested in the technical side of the hobby or who still builds some of his own equipment will find that this book is one of the most rewarding to be found! It deserves to be book number two in any ham library, right after the Handbook!

I am really pleased with this purchase. The authors bring their considerable expertise and expose their methods in designing practical radio equipment. I designed my first feedback amplifier with known input-output impedances and stage gain. It came out right on the money.

The popularity of this book in the Amateur Radio community is all the review that is needed!

Ham radio types generally have bunches of books, many of them reference texts that are dusted off and referred to just occasionally. EMRFD, isn't one of those reference books. This text will take you through the construction of a first rate amateur radio station. It covers the "homebrew" construction of virtually ever piece of equipment that you need to have a ham station capable of making contacts around the world!

The bottom line, if you are a Amateur Radio operator this is a must have text.

73, Bart W0IIT

This product was a pleasure to listen to as I was driving down the road. Light enough to listen to and not get each word. The stories were riviting to listen to.

Great mysteries! Had me thinking about who done it! Father Gilbert is great.

This is good mystery series by Focus on the Familly, as are most of thier Radio Theatre stories are!

This product is excellent. The quality is great and was shipped well. Great buy!

Focus on the family has brought back theater to radio. I remember listening to stories on the radio when I was a kid; it stirred my imagination. The stories weren't dramatized as these were. Focus on the family has done an outstanding job bringing stories to our ears with good production. There are two stories in this set: 1. The Play is the Thing and 2. The Grey Lady. All stories have a mystery (obviously!). The ending are not so predictable. They are very good stories though. I haven't found anything like it. Of course, you could listen to book on tapes, but they are just plain boring!

I absolutely love these mysteries on tape. They are very well written and superbly acted. I agree with the previous reviewer; books on tape are plain boring, but these draw you in and keep you guessing until the very end. My favorite is the Grey Lady; very creepy and suspenseful story telling at its best!

This book does a fantastic job of tracing the history of broadcasting of Irish football, both radio and television. The only criticism I have of it is that it sometimes repeats itself from chapter to chapter. It's almost as if the chapters were seperate articles, or part of a serialized presentation which naturally requires repetition to "update" the reader. This is a very minor problem, however, which is vastly overshadowed by the depth of the research. It would have been nice to see an appendix that listed the various broadcasts by medium and by announcer(s) but this may very well be impossible considering the "open" policy that Notre Dame had in the early days, where anyone could broadcast if they had the equipment. A great work that I would not hesitate getting for anyone with an interest in Notre Dame or college football in general. Some who do not like Notre Dame may not feel that the book is objective enough to be a true "history" of college football broadcasting, but if they do not like Notre Dame, they probably can't read anyway (he says with tounge planted firmly in cheek.)

This may be one of the best books on sports broadcasting ever written. Dr. Gulifor covers The Fighting Irish on air like a late afternoon fog covers South Bend in November. Great oral histories with some of the key personnel of Notre Dame broadcasts. The is a well researched book, and one that both scholars of broadcasting and football fans will appreciate.

I picked up this book as another Notre Dame book for a Notre Dame fan, however, I received both a "really enjoyable read" and an education. This book is not my typical read. This book is an excellent reference to the history NCAA Football broadcasting, even if you are not an IRISH fan, and might even adjust your thoughts about Notre Dame with respect to their history and recent actions with NBC.

Dr. Gullifor has written a book that is both scholarly and readable. As an Indiana resident, I have always had an interest in ND, but until I read this book, I had no idea how ND helped secure their national prominance in football through the contracts they were able to negotiate. Dr. Gullifor has clearly researched his subject and has presented a very credible work.

A Must Read for anyone interested in Sports Media
Dr. Gullifor gives the reader an in depth understanding of the evolution of sports broadcasting in American culture, and examines the decision making process of broadast executives in regards to Notre Dame. This should be required reading for anyone interested in sports media.

When I was coming of age in the 1960's,one of my favorite TV shows was "Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In"-It was downright hysterical-When I heard that a book had come out about the program,I knew I had to purchase it-Author Hal Erickson begins his book by listing several performers whose comedic style paved the way for "Laugh-In",such as the vaudeville team of Olsen & Johnson & Ernie Kovacs-"Laugh-In" ran from January 1968 to May 1973-Along the way,it introduced us to some truly talented individuals such as Arte Johnson,Ruth Buzzi,Goldie Hawn,& Lily Tomlin-"Laugh-In" was the top rated show from 1968-1970-However,once certain cast members started to leave,the show diminished in popularity-NBC cancelled the show in early 1973-There's an appendix in the back of the book that features a brief synopsis of each & every episode-If you're a bona fide "Laugh-In" fan,you must purchase this book.

I am a huge fan of "Laugh-In." If you are a fan also, this is THE book for you. It includes everything. The only thing missing are pictures- there are not any. However, all of the behind the scenes, inside info about the show, its history, series revival attempts (thus far- there is talk about another one,) and reunion specials, is all here. All of your questions are answered. I know mine were. Also included is a season by season episode guide, with a detailed synopsis for each episode for all of the six seasons.

This book is usually pretty expensive, but it is worth the cost. Every TV show should have a book written about it that is this wonderfully brilliant. Double thumbs up!

A very worthwhile piece of literature which belongs in any library of comedy or television. It chronicals the history of one of the best and most inventive events in TV history. The book is more the history of the show than the humor but it does contain lots of the wit and the flavor.. Now I want a book of the jokes with photos. Good work.. Buy it.

A thorough history of a legendary television classic. The book paints a picture of the popular culture of a time that will surely not be repeated. I highly recommend this for anyone who wants to learn about a fascinating era or just simply wants to revisit a phenomenon long gone.

It's been a year-and-a-half since Hal Erickson's "Sid and Marty Krofft" was published...too long for this reader, as Mr. Erickson is quickly becoming as vital to the world of TV history as Brooks and Marsh. The bulk of "From Beautiful Downtown Burbank" recaps the origin, growth, and ultimate demise of "Laugh-In" with Mr. Erickson's trademark savvy enthusiasm, the kind that comes only aftermonths of research and interviews. What's more, the book's appendix isn't to be missed, since you'd be hard pressed to find a more thorough "Laugh-In" episode guide anywhere (it even includes the never-been-syndicated sixth season). The lack of photographs is completely made up for by Mr. Erickson's gifted ability to recreate the show's backstage atmosphere. Can't ask for more than that in a history book... Perhaps the only question the book doesn't answer: why Ian Bernard replaced the program'soriginal theme song in the 2nd, 3rd, & 4th season, only to resurrect it in the 5th. Asking that is pure hairsplitting, though, and shouldn't dissuade anybody from doing themselves the favor of purchasing this book,a gripping read from a multi-talented writer. So until Columbia House or Rhino immortalize "Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In" (heck, even after they do), "From Beautiful Downtown Burbank" is the definitive tribute to a marvelous and groundbreaking program.

Jim Cox has done a wonderful job of recalling the most popular soap operas of radio's past. This book would make a great addition to any student's or collector's library of media related books. As an author, I fully appreciate the time and effort that went into this beautifully produced and informative book and congratulate everyone involved in its preparation.

Sometimes the truly good books are those that cover the aspects of network broadcasting that are not always best remembered. One obscurity is radio soap operas. And to think Jim Cox actually spent the time to compile information about thirty plus radio soap operas is magnificent. True documentation from an author who must love the OTR hobby. Sadly, the only thing going against it is the expensive price (obviously from McFarland who doesn't sell books at low prices for fans, only to University and College Libraries). This book, unlike many McFarland has put out, offers a neat photographic cover. One great thing I can say about this book (and you have to read it to understand what I'm saying), it was such an enjoyable read that I won't part with mine. You'll have to buy one of yoru own.

Okay. Soap operas on radio is not my strong point. In fact, I have very little in my collection. But I purchased a copy of this book (requested from a bookstore) and it's a must have. Cox is probably one of the best authors we have to document old-time radio and he digs into subjects we disregard. One thing I can really say this book did is make me order various cassettes from my favorite old-time radio dealer to listen to. More soap operas. That's exactly what a book should do. If you don't know much about this subject or want to hear some interesting stories, I recommend you add this to your collection. The cover is hardback trade, but with a glossy cover instead of cloth like most Mcfarland books. I like it.

This book is invaluable to the student of media as well as those who have memories of these wonderful programs. I have used the information in this book in teaching media classes to generate a better understanding of how entertainment forms came into being. This is also a great read in and of itself and a book to revisit often.

As the editor of an Old-Time radio club newsletter, I received a complimentary copy of "The Great Radio Soap Operas" from the publisher. While I was not a fan of radio soap operas, I decided to read and review this book.

Don't let the title keep you from seeking out this book. It is much, much more than a book on radio soap operas. Jim Cox has written a GREAT BOOK, including comprehensive histories of 31 of network radio's most durable soap operas. Don't be disappointed if one of your favorite "soaps" doesn't have its own chapter. Many others are also discussed in this book.

Each of the series covered in depth includes extensive information on casts, writers, production personnel, sponsors, ratings, dates on the air, and time slots. There is biographical information on many actors, producers, directors, & writers. Also, the opening lines for many soap operas are included. You'll also find interesting appendices and an excellent annotated bibliography.

Jim Cox manages to blend facts, entertaining anecdotes, scripting and plotting techniques, plot lines, and a generous portion of Radio history into a highly informative, readable, & enjoyable book. No small feat in deed! This book really captures the vitality of radio soap operas in such a way that the reader feels like the shows are still on the air. Even though the last radio "soap" went off the air over four decades ago, they live on in Jim's book. The love of his subject matter clearly shows through. "The Great Radio Soap Operas" is a book well worth adding to your Old-Time Radio library.

Once I finished reading the book and wrote the review, I turned the book over to the Club's Library. Then I placed an order with the publisher and purchased a copy of "The Great Radio Soap Operas" for my own.

My husband and I were listening to this tape on the way back from a family trip. We got so engrossed in the story that we missed our freeway exit and it took an extra half hour to get back on route!

A new radio actor named Tony Randall (later of the Odd Couple on television) was one of the cast members of this interesting 15 min. per day installment program. These are two of the best stories from the series.

These stories are perfect for a stormy night, or anytime at night. Most effective if you're alone. You'll become addicted like I did, and wish that there was a 12 step program to join.

Once you listen you will be hooked for more. Better than T.V

"I Love A Mystery" (known to its fans as ILAM) was perhaps the greatest radio serial of all time.

Created by Carlton E. Morse (who also was behind the great radio soap "One Man's Family) it featured the adventures of the staff of the A-1 Detective Agency: Jack, Doc and Reggie.

Many of the shows of this series are gone, alas, but for those that remain (like these two) show why it was so popular with adults and kids alike; great shuddery atmosphere, action too wild to be called wooly, memorable villains and blood and gore galore!

This show is a must for any collector of OTR. Additionally, this particular collection offers two of the best remaining ILAMS.

Brian Misiaszek, MD

(PS While I cannot post it here, I have a web page on this series which can be located via various web browsers)

Michael Dolan has lived as a professional journalist in the Middle East for over two of the five decades he covers in "Israel at the Crossroads."

Assignments have continued to be awarded to him from leading media outlets throughout the world.

His balanced firsthand reporting of the events surrounding the struggles for the land of Israel begins with a detailed examination of Arab as well as Jewish history. He follows up with a delineation of the religious aspects of the ongoing conflict from both perspectives of Islam and Judaism.

Mr. Dolan's friendships with individuals from both camps is evident in his delicate presentation of the people centered, according to Scripture, as 'the apple of God's eye.' {Deuteronomy 32:10; Zechariah 2:8}

TL Farley,
author,

When Now Becomes Too Late
{ Prophecy : The Rapture In Brief : Inside The Twinkle ! }

Distant Reaches
{ True Life Adventure In Ireland, Boston and On The North Atlantic }

I found this book very interesting and quite informative. It gave a very objective and yet consise perspective on the modern developments in Israel and its continuing struggle with the Palestinian drive for Independence. I thought that the information on religious differences was also of much interest.

The Middle East Crisis has been a major TV news topic for at least the last 30 years. Nevertheless, most Americans have no clue what is going on over there. We continue to try to understand the situation based on Western logic while not understanding that the involved parties have a perspective that does not fit Western logic, bargaining, or compromise. This book gives a terrific overview of the topic.

I found this book very interesting and quite informative. It gave a very objective and yet consise perspective on the modern developments in Israel and its continuing struggle with the Palestinian drive for Independence. I thought that the information on religious differences was also of much interest.

This is an excellent account of the history of the Jewish state and it's conflicts with the Arab world, including the Palestinian issue.

The book has a Biblical foundation and provides an objective analysis of the present situation.

This book is well written and easy to understand. It provides an insight from both sides of the conflict and much of the account is based on the personal experience of one who has experienced much of the conflict first hand & who lives in Jerusalem. Someone who has also reported on the ongoing conflict for a major media network.

I share the author's interest and love for the Holy Land and a large percentage of his opinions. I have listened to David Dolan speak on the subject and he possesses a wealth of information, knowledge and experience.

Highly recommended.