I am writing this review from the point of view of someone who loves Dudley Moore, but I think anybody would enjoy reading this book. It is so well written with care and attention to detail. It will make you laugh and break your heart at the same time.
It was written just before Dudley’s illness was diagnosed and Barbra Paskin says in her prologue “My one wish for him is that one day he will find the peace and happiness that has eluded him for most of his life, and which he so very much deserves.” Tragically the worst was yet to come. Life showed just how cruel and unfair it can be.
She also says “The life he was living with Nicole was destroying him.” I think the book inadvertently shows how his last wife, if not the cause of his illness, was very bad for his health.
But there are so many happier times to remember him by.
This book, Not Only… is an insight into the real Dudley Moore, But Also… is a comprehensive chronicle of all his work, his infectious comedy and his wonderful musical achievements. He had a touch of genius and I’ll miss him.