Frank: The true story that inspired the film

In the late 1980s Jon Ronson was the keyboard-player in the Frank Sidebottom Oh Blimey Big Band. Enigmatic frontman Frank wore a big fake head, and nobody outside his inner circle knew his true identity. This became the subject of feverish speculation during his zenith years, and also when the band began to fall apart. Twenty-five years later, Jon has co-written a movie, Frank, inspired by his time in this great and bizarre band, and has written this short book about his experiences. And we mean short. At only 69 pages, it reads more like a long-form journalism piece, which captures the folly of youth that led the musically untalented Ronson to the band; gives insight into Frank and the man behind him; and addresses the nature of fame and unappreciated talent. Witty, self-deprecating and poignant, the book is too short to provide any true insights – but makes for an intriguing read, and will send fans straight to the film.