Books by Michael Parkinson

A look at the life and times of the man Sir Michael most looked up to.

Liverpool Beyond the Brink describes the extraordinary if incomplete renaissance of Liverpool during the last thirty years. Showing how much has been achieved, who helped and what its current challenges are, this is a fascinating commentary on one of the UKs most iconic cities.

A unique biography of football icon, George Best, written by journalist and broadcaster, Michael Parkinson

'A riveting read about an amazing man' THE SUNLegendary boxer Muhammad Ali visited Michael Parkinson's chat show sofa four times, culminating in an iconic interview in 1971. Muhammad Ali: A Memoir is a fresh, revealing and personal account of the life of the most important and enduring cultural figures of our age. An icon of boxing who has inspired the biggest names in boxing, from Mike Tyson to Anthony Joshua, this is the story of boxing's biggest star. Muhammad Ali was God's Gift to the interviewer. Funny, articulate, outspoken with a fascinating life story, unparalleled talent and controversial views. These 4 interviews charted Ali's life, revealing significant phases at different times, charting the rise and fall of this kaleidoscope of a man.In Muhammad Ali: A Memoir Sir Michael Parkinson will bring his award-winning journalistic talents to bear on this extraordinary man. The book will mix personal recollections of the times they met with selected transcripts of the famous and, in the case of the 1974 meeting, infamous interviews all brought together and contextualised by a sober and honest assessment of the life and times of a figure that, it is certain, we will never see the like of again.

'A joyous, breezy read ... It is also beautifully written' DAILY TELEGRAPH'Funny and self-deprecating and just as laid-back as he is on camera' INDEPENDENT'Just like an extended edition of a brilliant Parkinson on television - engrossing and entertaining' IRISH TIMES'I recommend it heavily. It's a wonderful book' MELVYN BRAGG* * * * * * * * *All Michael Parkinson really wanted to do was play cricket for Yorkshire and England. However, he soon realised that to be paid to watch films, football and cricket would be the best way to spend life, and he became a journalist. Television beckoned and for three decades Parkinson interviewed the movers and shakers of the late twentieth century, making his television programme the must-see event of the week. In singing with Bing Crosby, dancing with Billy Connolly, flirting with Miss Piggy and sparring with Muhammad Ali, Parkinson proved himself one of the most engaging and durable hosts in both Britain and Australia. In Parky he recalls a full life with honesty, insight and humour.