Just Ignore Him

Just Ignore Him is a memoir by British comedian Alan Davies that recounts his experiences growing up in Essex during the 1970s and 1980s. The book emerged from Davies' work during his MA in Creative Writing at Goldsmiths, where he initially wrote his life stories in the third person. He spent several years crafting the narrative, consulting with friends and family about his decision to make these personal experiences public. Published in 2020 by Little, Brown and Company, the memoir stands apart from Davies' previous book My Favourite People And Me by addressing subjects he had previously avoided in his writing. The text was written with the intention of creating a lasting record for his children to read when they reached maturity. The memoir explores themes of childhood trauma, family relationships, and the long-term impact of early experiences on adult life, presenting these complex subjects with straightforward clarity and measured restraint.

Readers describe this memoir as raw, honest and difficult to read due to its subject matter of childhood abuse. Many note they finished it in one or two sittings despite the heavy content. Readers appreciated: - The straightforward, unsentimental writing style - Davies' dark humor throughout - The balance between painful memories and lighter moments - His perspective on how trauma affects relationships later in life Common criticisms: - Some sections feel disjointed or meandering - The timeline jumps can be confusing - A few readers wanted more resolution or reflection at the end Ratings: Goodreads: 4.3/5 (3,800+ ratings) Amazon UK: 4.6/5 (2,900+ ratings) Amazon US: 4.5/5 (300+ ratings) Sample reader comment: "The matter-of-fact way he describes such horror makes it even more impactful. No melodrama needed - the facts speak for themselves." -Goodreads reviewer "Brave and unflinching without being sensationalist." -Amazon reviewer

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🎭 Alan Davies began his stand-up comedy career in 1988 at the Whitstable Labour Club and has since become one of Britain's most recognized comedians. 📺 The author is best known for his role as Jonathan Creek in the BBC mystery series of the same name, which ran from 1997-2016, and as a permanent panelist on "QI" since 2003. ✍️ The book was written as part of Davies' MA in Creative Writing at Goldsmiths, University of London, which he pursued later in life, demonstrating it's never too late to develop new skills. 💔 The loss of his mother at age six deeply influenced his life and comedy career, with grief and loss becoming recurring themes in his work. 🌟 Despite the serious subject matter of "Just Ignore Him," Davies has managed to maintain his career as a comedian, proving how art and humor can emerge from difficult experiences.