November:
Uncommon Type by Tom Hanks
Hanks, despite being one of the most prolific actors in Hollywood, has sat down at one of his many antique typewriters and crafted a surprisingly deft and heartwarming collection of short stories.
Book Review
by Kit, our Senior Books Buyer
Now, normally when I see celebrity authored books the words ‘Ghost Writer’ spring to mind and begin to flash wildly, however what we have here seems to be the real deal; Hanks, despite being one of the most prolific actors in Hollywood, has sat down at one of his many antique typewriters and crafted a surprisingly deft and heartwarming collection of short stories.
A few of his films over the last couple of years may have missed the mark somewhat, but I’m now debating going back to watch if I can spot the gears turning behind his eyes; Uncommon Type has 17 short stories, written over the last two years, all linked by typewriters, the actor/authors private passion. My personal favourite is ‘Christmas Eve 1953’, but there is plenty here for everyone; some stories are poignant, almost melancholy, looks at the human condition, whilst others are much for lighthearted adventures of everyday folk thrown into a chain of events beyond their control.
You really feel the influence of the years of scripts on Hanks and overall what stands out here is the quality and polish of the work – something you’d normally see from a more experienced author.
