One Two Three Four:
The Beatles In Time
Author: Craig Brown
Publishers: 4th Estate
After John Lennon had played his Aunt Mimi the Beatles’ first single ‘Love Me Do.’ His Aunt told him ‘If you think you’re going to make your fortune with that, then you’ve got another thing coming.’ Aunt Mimi is given plenty of space in Craig Brown’s cultural examination of the Fab Four, as are many integral characters, chancers, hangers-on, snake oil salesmen, villains and fans.
Many books have been written about The Beatles and does the world really need another one to add to the pile – especially now? Well: ‘One Two Three Four…’ is definitely worth getting, and quite possibly the most enjoyable read out of many. Brown’s non-linear approach to storytelling is mesmerising and an absolute hoot.
It seems the more famous the Beatles became the more their entourage of uninvited guests grew, as did bizarre happenings within their own lives. Many are documented in their full glory within the book. Some being: the time there was nearly a film made of ‘Lord of the Rings’ in 1968 with Paul McCartney playing Frodo and John Lennon as Gollum – until J P R Tolkien vetoed the project as he did not like the Beatles music; a dentist introducing the band to LSD; Hells Angels taking over Apple HQ and Madame Tussauds staff having to frequently change the waxwork models of the Beatles due to the band frequently changing their hairstyles and image.
‘One Two Three Four: The Beatles In Time’ is a great read that will appeal to both Beatles aficionados and those with a keen interest in cultural history.
8/10
Words: David Nobakht