Written by: Elisabeth Sladen with Jeff Hudson
Submitted By: David M. Dunaj
If you're a fan of Doctor Who, either the classic show or the splendid current revival on BBC, this is a must read. Like millions of fans, I fell in love with Elisabeth Sladen AKA Sarah Jane Smith back in the 70's. And then writing genius Russell T. Davies resurrected Sarah Jane for the new Doctor Who and the hit spinoff series The Sarah Jane adventures. A whole new generation of fans fell in love with Lis/Sarah Jane. Sadly, Elisabeth Sladen died in April 2011. For the sake of her fans however, husband Brian Miller and daughter Sadie consented to have her unfinished autobiography published. Thank you so much Brian and Sadie.
The book is a marvellous read on many levels. It is a first rate insiders view of Doctor Who and classic Doctors Jon Pertwee and Tom Baker. Not to mention a perspective on the new show and the workings of the BBC. But it is far more than that. It is the life story of a wonderful, witty, warm, kind and amazing woman who fleshed out an endearing and enduring fictional character. Lis' life is followed as she grows up in post war Liverpool and advances in her own special way thru theatre acting and finally into TV fame.
It's an amazing story about the actor's profession too. Reading this one gets an appreciation of the trials and tribulations an actor must face. And we get a view of Britain's "golden age" of TV. Further, there is the unique view of Doctor Who fandom and accounts of the conventions and signings that Lis attended around the world.
Lis Sladen is somewhat self-deprecating about herself. That's why it's so special that others complete the total picture for the fans. The forward by famed stage actor (and 10th Doctor) David Tennant is brilliant and touching. And the Afterward/Coda by Brian and Sadie Miller is heartbreaking but wonderful. Between the two you get a special perspective. You understand why Elisabeth Sladen was so loved and will be sorely missed. The book has a wonderful photo section taken mostly from Lis Sladen's personal collection. An audio book version of the autobiography is available. It is read by Lis' friend Caroline John (who played Dr. Liz Shaw in Doctor Who). And the forward is read by David Tennant himself.
