sphinx reviewed Brothers: From Childhood to Oasis : The Real Story (Virgin) on + 97 more book reviews
As far as ghost-written books go, this one appears to be quite accurate and a close representation of the words and thoughts of Paul Gallagher (Noel and Liam's older brother). Much of the text appears to be a direct transcription of audio interviews with him, and so the book gives the impression of sitting in someone's living room as they tell you a story. A chapter is included from the boys' mother, with information on her own life and on her sons' childhoods from her perspective.
The painful topic of the abuse the family suffered at the hands of the boys' father is talked about frankly and openly in this book, and if Liam and Noel have ever seemed crazy or out of control, it quickly becomes clear to the reader that there is very good reason for that. It strikes one that Tommy Gallagher is very much like a thwarted version of his yougest son; a man who, being unable to pursue a life that he loved and that interested him, became violently angry at the world and everyone in it, and took it out on those closest to him.
Like Noel, Paul is a good story-teller and his recollections of his brothers are entertaining and enlightening, with just the right amount of sibling-style ribbing included to make sure he annoys and embarrasses them. He and Noel got up to a lot of mischief together while Liam was still too young to keep up, and it's engrossing to read all about their football fanaticism, drug-taking, and various adventures around Manchester. Noel's increasing obsession with the guitar is also described throughout the course of the book, building an interesting picture of his gradual development into a full-fledged rock star.
As their brother, Paul has unique insight into Noel and Liam's personalities, and that's a major part of what makes this book a great read. Definitely a must-have for serious Oasis fans.
The painful topic of the abuse the family suffered at the hands of the boys' father is talked about frankly and openly in this book, and if Liam and Noel have ever seemed crazy or out of control, it quickly becomes clear to the reader that there is very good reason for that. It strikes one that Tommy Gallagher is very much like a thwarted version of his yougest son; a man who, being unable to pursue a life that he loved and that interested him, became violently angry at the world and everyone in it, and took it out on those closest to him.
Like Noel, Paul is a good story-teller and his recollections of his brothers are entertaining and enlightening, with just the right amount of sibling-style ribbing included to make sure he annoys and embarrasses them. He and Noel got up to a lot of mischief together while Liam was still too young to keep up, and it's engrossing to read all about their football fanaticism, drug-taking, and various adventures around Manchester. Noel's increasing obsession with the guitar is also described throughout the course of the book, building an interesting picture of his gradual development into a full-fledged rock star.
As their brother, Paul has unique insight into Noel and Liam's personalities, and that's a major part of what makes this book a great read. Definitely a must-have for serious Oasis fans.
