Mementos Memorabilia

Printed in 2003, this is a rare copy of Ricky, Ricky Tomlinson’s autobiography, hand signed and personally dedicated to “Mary” with his classic line: “My Arse.”

You probably know Ricky as the lovable couch potato Jim Royle from The Royle Family, entertaining millions without moving from his chair. But this book shows there’s a whole lot more to him than fart jokes and football banter.

In his own words:
“I know that I'm going to get stick over this book, but there you go – it can't be helped. And some readers might think I'm a terrible liar when they read what follows, but everything in this book is true. Enough lies have been told about me, without me adding to them.”

Ricky’s story covers the lot: love, hardship, humour, injustice and the odd stint in prison. He’s been a plasterer, banjo player, stand-up comic, political activist, union man, film extra and an award-winning actor, sometimes all at once. His mum reckoned he’d lived three lives. She probably lost count.

What makes this book stand out is the same thing that makes Ricky stand out, honesty, grit, and that dry northern wit.

Some of the praise it got at the time:
“Deliciously indiscreet” – Sunday Express
“Undoubtedly the showbusiness book of the year” – Independent on Sunday
“The book thrums with energy” – Sunday Times
“His life has been as messy as any reader could hope” – Evening Standard

A brilliant read and a brilliant bit of memorabilia, especially with that signature and dedication.