This fascinating, well-written and meticulously researched guide to Britain's alternative comedy revolution is probably the most accurate single retrospective of that transformative time that exists … Double conveys the excitement of these times while telling the story as accurately and succinctly as any social historian can. This book comes highly recommended.

Chortle

The definitive account. … If you've got even a passing interest in the history of modern comedy Double's book is a must.

Beyond the Joke

Thank God someone's written this book, before everyone who could remember what happened died, and thank God that someone was Oliver Double, the Charles Darwin of alternative comedy.

Stewart Lee

Oliver Double's enquiry is a worthy contribution to the evolving and expanding field of comedy studies. This fascinating investigation into alternative comedy uncovers both the roots and development of the alternative comedy scene, which dramatically revolutionized the comedy landscape. It is essential reading for anyone who is serious about comedy.

Lisa Moore, Lecturer in performance and comedy, School of arts and Media, University of Salford, UK

A very thorough, well-structured and well-explained piece of research on alternative comedy in the UK. The book is certainly suited to scholars and students interested in the performing and sociological aspects of stand-up comedy.

European Journal of Humour Research