More Magic Tricks with Logan Roy
Welcome back to “Books with Michael”, your favorite book review blog—hopefully. In this edition, we shall stroll down memory lane with Brian Cox’s Putting the Rabbit Back in the Hat.
I recently recognized Brian Cox when I watched his performance in the movie Troy. I wondered why media tycoon Logan Roy—Brian Cox’s most notable character from HBO’s Succession—was leading a Greek army against the Trojan capital. I again recognized him on the cover of his autobiography Putting the Rabbit Back in the Hat. Right away I was curious what magic tricks Logan Roy would teach me in his book. The book turned out to be no magic book but rather a story taking you through the life of its author.
As the book begins, the reader learns of Cox’s background and his humble origins. One specific instance that stood out to me was Cox’s story of his role in the filming of a documentary on workhouses in Britain. Cox’s describes how he became angry in describing his family’s connection to what he better calls “poorhouses.” His family’s struggle with the system is incredible to hear about from the perspective of someone who has succeeded in escaping the system and now working to dismantle it.
I love that Brian Cox uses such relaxed and fluid language in his writing. It makes the book very easy to read as he guides you through his many stories and accounts, giving glimpses into what he’s seen and the sounds he’s heard. He does an especially good job of describing how his family members spoke in Scotland. Everything about his writing style lends itself towards easy reading and real texture. At some points, the context and stories seemed a little scrambled and scattered. However, my mind tends to think rapidly and randomly, which helps with reading this style of writing.
I’m very appreciative to have taken a closer glimpse into the person behind one of my favorite television characters.
Hi Michael,
ReplyDeleteI was just saying this too! I LOVE books with more relaxed and fluid language. I cannot stand a novel that has unnecessary words and crazy vocab words for no reason. It makes it harder for me to connect with the story, and I usually can't understand what's going on lol. To be honest, I know nothing about Brian Cox, so it's cool to see that you're a fan. I've heard dope things about Succession, so maybe I'll watch it soon myself.
Angelica
Hi Michael,
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing a little about Putting the Rabbit Back in the Hat. I too would think that this was a book about magic but I guess not hahah. I've always wanted to see the ins and outs of an actor and this seems like a great book to read for just that.
Elan
Hi Michael,
ReplyDeleteI loved your intro to this post haha and I really enjoyed reading it! I have never seen Succession or Troy, but I am interested to watch now because of Michael Cox. I really enjoyed how you describe how he writes-- it gives me an image of who this man is beyond the stories he probably tells in the book. Thank you for your post!
Zoë
Hi Michael,
ReplyDeleteI am OBSESSED with your opening paragraph. Your writing sounds like it's similar to Brian's because it's very fluid and easy to read, plus I can hear your voice in it! I liked how you emphasized the style/diction of this book because it is an under-looked aspect in most reviews. I kinda want to read this book just to hear his words (and also how he made the Scottish accent on page).
- Ellie
Hi Michael,
ReplyDeleteThanks for talking about the book you read. Your first paragraph is super engaging and helped me continue to read. Overall the paragraphs are super to easy to read and follow! I have seen a little bit of Succession, but I want to continue to watch it as my roommate has it on the TV all the time, so maybe I should read Brian Cox's book.
-Etienne