Michael Parkinson

My name is Michael Parkinson, I was born in Arnold Nottingham in 1939 and have written six books with these titles:-

1 Billy Fury to YouTube, published 2018 ISBN 978-1-78222-588-1

2 Ovaltineys to Sheredean Girls Club 1941 to1960, published 2019 ISBN 978-1-78222-675-8

3 Thames Path Walk published 2020 ISBN 978-1-78222-755-7

4 Amazing Audition.The Billy Fury story with 22 Co-Authors. Published 2021 ISBN 978-1-78222-831-8

5 Naturism by myself and 9 Co-Authors. Published 2022,Hard & Paper back ISBN 978-1-78222-916-2

6 My YouTube AdventuresPublished 2024 ISBN 978-1-78792-073-6

I was born on 2 June 1939 in Arnold, Nottingham, England, my grandson has written a forward to my first book which I will use as my Author Profile.

Michael Parkinson by Michael’s grandson Dr Craig Woods BSc PhD ARCS

My grandfather told me he was writing a book. This shouldn’t be as surprising as it was. He’s always told stories, he’s always up to something. Michael started writing about his experiences producing Billy Fury shows and producing his YouTube channel. Included are some of the more interesting episodes in his life. He pours acclaim on what he has found inspiring or joyful, some of which are charmingly niche.

I don’t think my Grandpa is aware of the gift he possesses which is to get on and do what you want to do. Producing shows or uploading videos did not seem on the cards. So many people don’t know where to start, but for him it seems to always start with a person. In conversation both frank and honest and to the point. I suspect this is why he gets things done. Reading this book was, for me, a lesson in how to take pride and enjoyment in what you do. Take yourself seriously with fun. My grandfather combines fearlessness with reverence and respect while meeting people. I expect that’s why they seem to open up to him and to be happy to work with him. He was amazed at the patience Sara Aalto had for him when happening across her in Leicester Square.

For me the most enjoyable parts of this book were the biographical chapters. Memories of Nottinghamshire life followed by national service in London and then the transition to civilian work. I suspect that this is my preference because of my relation to him. For other people perhaps they will prefer the chapters which are very different in style, they describe various cultural events or persons of interest.

You may now look forward to reading this book and imagine the places described along the way. Better than that though, you can read this while accessing YouTube and search for the titles Michael recommends as you go through. This allows you to see for yourself what he is talking about. I found this to be a valuable addition and it’s something I haven’t encountered before in a book.