I intended to have this complete prior to seeing Python at the O2 but feel out of it for some time. A fascinating read for fans of the creative process and the goings on behind the scenes. I truly hope there will be a third volume covering his travel works and his work on Hemingway's Chair. ( )

"Halfway To Hollywood" chronicles nine years in Michael Palin's life from "Monty Python Live At The Hollywood Bowl" to "A Fish Called Wanda." This is his personal diary in which he writes about his family and other commitments besides films. He comes across as a sensitive compassionate man who values his quiet family life and doesn't put on movie star airs. It also serves as a time capsule of British life in the 1980's with fears of IRA terrorism, Margaret Thatcher's conservative administration, and questions about nuclear power.

This is the second compilation of his diaries to be published. Palin's writing is easy to read and engaging. At the end of the book he is about to start his new career as a world traveler. Hopefully, he will publish more diaries about his journeys around the world. If not, I can always read his many travelogs. ( )

As with the earlier diary, this was an interesting peep into the life of my favourite Python. Palin's writing is amusing and you can hear his voice narrating as you read (in my head!). It certainly shows that the Michael Palin we see on television is the real thing, witty, intelligent and interested in doing what he is doing to the best he can. ( )

Everybody knows that I enjoy Michael Palin’s works – whether they be in book format, comedy or travel documentaries. This is the second book of Michael’s diaries, taking us from the end of Monty Python to A Fish Called Wanda and then onto an unknown horizon – Around the World in Eighty Days. This book also deals with some more serious issues – the death of his sister and mother moving out of the family home. However, there are some highs – Mrs Palin taking her first overseas trip to New York at age 80 and the success of various ventures (I have to see The Missionary now!).
Once again, Palin’s writing is brilliant, taking you to that era and making the everyday seem extraordinary and interesting – from parent-teacher meetings, to work meetings and travelling Concorde (okay, so that’s not so ordinary). It feels like he’s a regular, everyday Englishman who happens to act, write and perform very well. I was interested to read his trepidations before the 80 Days trip – he didn’t think it would be overly successful and Palin was a fourth or more choice. But as we all know, it started off some fantastic journeys. I loved reading about behind the scenes with Wanda and Meaning of Life (one of my favourite films) as well as ‘George H’ dropping by (that’s George Harrison of The Beatles). Ordinary man living an exceptional life.
I really enjoyed this book. I presume there won’t be any more published because the travel diaries have already been produced, but I suppose I can hope… ( )