Narration declination

I love James Corden from his many shows especially Fat Friends. This is a frank and open autobiography of his early life looking for purpose until his eventual acceptance into the world of theatre and films. An slightly enjoyable listen until around half way. Gradually but perceptibly the tone of narration becomes rhythmic to the point of annoyance until around the second half it becomes almost unbearable. I've never heard an author do this before, and I've listened to many on Audible. Every sentence from thereafter starts in monotone and ends in a slight increase in pitch followed by an almost sigh at the end. Forgivable for one or two odd sentences but almost the entire second half of the reading is like this. It ends up really grating. Coupled with the less frequent funny stories (and there aren't many funny stories in this book, even Corden himself freely admits he is no comedian) makes this a rather depressing and excruciating listen towards the end. If Corden had a more interesting life to fill with interesting stories ( eating coco pops in his pants lets face it isn't that interesting or funny ) and a better narration style then I would be more enthusiastic about this book. I would recommend instead many more laugh out loud books -Jason Manford, Jack Dee, and Michael McIntyre. Im sure James in his own painfully and embarrassing self loathing way would agree.

14 people found this helpful

Funny But

A very funny read James Corden tells his story so far in his own humorous way but I found the book a bit of a struggle towards the end and a bit boring

6 people found this helpful

Axe grinding

What could have made this a 4 or 5-star listening experience for you?

I had a lot of time for this actor but his bitter rant about one of his teachers (who was named by the way) made him seem like a petulant child. Superficially written, it seemed to be a cash cow. Real pity as I loved Gavin and Stacey

What did you like best about this story?

When he talks of his time at the National Theatre and working with Mike Leigh

What about James Corden’s performance did you like?

Not much

What character would you cut from May I Have Your Attention Please??

I would edit his sulky description of his education

10 people found this helpful

Liked him on TV but knowing more liked him less

He came across as lazy and disappointing. Realise he's turned things around. But this book and its delivery lacked something for me and I found it a drag. He is a good guy now but came across as what he cared about most is himself. Hope his life since the baby continues to go from strength to strength and he can continue to fight for a better world.

4 people found this helpful

Cringy

This book just confirmed what an odious little twerp Corden is. He actually tells you, from his own mouth, what a nasty, arrogant, overrated pleb he is and the funny thing is he is so arrogant that he doesn't realise he's making himself look bad.
I listened to this audiobook as I'm a huge Gavin and Stacey fan, which I can't deny was genius, but hearing of Corden's life and his opinion of himself really spoiled it for me.

3 people found this helpful

Self Indulgent but funny in places

What did you like best about May I Have Your Attention Please?? What did you like least?

Best: His funny anecdotes
Least: The fact that everyone he name-drops, he idolizes to a sickening degree.

What was most disappointing about James Corden’s story?

It appeared very self indulgent. A book he will, I think, regret writing.

Did the narration match the pace of the story?

Not particularly. James' narration was, at times, exhausting. He always appears to be running out of breath!

Do you think May I Have Your Attention Please? needs a follow-up book? Why or why not?

No, not at all.

5 people found this helpful

Not as good as expected...

Book does not seem as funny as expected. It does not seem to be read in a natural, story telling way. It seems the author is simply reporting /bragging about what he has achieved in his career without much of a story behind it.

1 person found this helpful

A little disappointing.

Would you say that listening to this book was time well-spent? Why or why not?

A little disappointing, but you feel compelled to keep on listening after paying for it. Some parts of his life were interesting, but he really paints a picture of himself being a bit lad'ish or as a funny man and not an actor/writer/comic etc.

What will your next listen be?

The Profession of Violence: The Rise and Fall of the Kray Twins

What didn’t you like about James Corden’s performance?

It's always good to have the Author red the book.

If this book were a film would you go see it?

no

3 people found this helpful

Absolutely EXCELLENT ***

James does not disappoint in this WONDERFUL piece of work. He writes from his heart narrating his story with real warmth and whilst listening I felt he was reading just to me. I listened avidly to his exploits at school, his early adventures securing parts in the plays or films. It was hysterically funny in places and brought tears to my eyes in others. James takes time to describe the characters he has encountered throughout the book he acknowledges all those who have made an impression upon him. I learned a lot about the ways of a thespian and I discovered a side to his personality I had not previously seen. He is not just a very clever very funny man able to hold an audience in the palm of his hand, he is humble , a serious family man warm and loveable. He is keen to please, rather like a labrador puppy who keeps coming back for more opportunities to play. Well done Mr Corden , you certainly had my attention for the whole book. This is an excellent book, buy the download you will not be disapointed.

6 people found this helpful

Underestimated..!

Absolutely loved this autobiography.. James Corden you are stunning.. love every minute you made me laugh, cry, smile and believe.. ❤️