Kirjahaku

It is true that Stephen Fry is a celebrated, award-winning comedian and actor. He is also a bestselling author, a television presenter and director. More than anything though he is a terrific wit, and a philosopher for the 21st century whose utterances are as memorable as those of Oscar Wilde, the man he once portrayed on the big screen. Here, for the first time, is a treasury of the finest sayings of Britain's finest wit. Fry first captured the public imagination when he appeared alongside Hugh Laurie in A Bit of Fry and Laurie and Jeeves and Wooster in the 1980s. He then starred in further television triumphs including the BBC sitcom Blackadder, before moving to cinema where he took the lead role in Wilde. He is now the host of the much-loved comedy panel show QI. He has also found the time to write several books, appear on the American crime drama series Bones, star on the stage, amass a collection of teddy bears, be the voice of the Harry Potter audio books and spend three months in prison.

Michael retired from his extraordinary showbiz career and it was only fitting he received the ultimate reward - a knighthood from the queen. It was an entirely suitable crowning moment to a remarkable career. This fascinating new biography traces the life of the miner's son from his childhood in Barnsley, where he had trials for Yorkshire County Cricket Club, to making it as an acclaimed media personality. It follows his entry into newspaper journalism and his national service, during which he served in Suez.Turning his hand to broadcasting, he was soon presenting shows including radio 4's "Desert Island Discs" and his legendary TV chat-show "Parkinson". The Yorkshireman's down to earth charm belied a nimble way with questioning that produced some of television's most engaging moments. Among over 2,000 interviews, those with Muhammad Ali, John Lennon, Princess Anne, David Beckham and - of - course Emu, have gone down as legendary. Over the years Michael has picked up countless industry accolades - including a BAFTA and Sony Radio Award - won listener and viewer popularity polls, received an honorary doctorate and been awarded a CBE. His adoring fans have lapped up his shows and delighted at his words in newspapers and books. "Arise sir Michael Parkinson" paints a complete portrait of Britain's most talented man.