This huge book, (it is very large, and one of the advantages is a number of the
photographs are full page) covers from Sylvia Anderson’s childhood, through to the
live action Thunderbirds movie.

The first eleven of the twenty-one chapters concentrate on the Supermarionation years
and give an enlightening insight into the work involved in their making. The chapters are
not written in a lineal timeline, which is what you would expect, but each chapter adds a
little more colour to the first chapter’s sketch of Sylvia’s story. I was able to picture the
scene of the young and growing AP Films company, feel the excitement, anticipation
and trepidation for new ventures, inventions and characters, and, what it must have
been like to work in that very unique genre of television.

The remaining chapters are a multifarious and compelling account of Sylvia’s solo career,
live action shows, puppet auctions and more! The final chapter, regarding the live action
Thunderbirds movie and accompanying photographs, complete My Fab Years on what
I felt was a happy note. 

There are parts in the book that made me smile and laugh, little gems and descriptions
of people Sylvia had dealings with along the way, and from nostalgia at remembering
scenes described from Thunderbirds, merchandise available and the FAB adverts. 

Sylvia also covers the more unpleasant experiences, problems of funding, the break up
of her marriage, which she describes more with sorrow at the break up of a successful
team rather than with any bitterness, and fond remembrances of colleagues and friends
who have passed away.

What I admire the most about My Fab Years is, Sylvia doesn’t monopolize the credit for
the success of the best of the Anderson shows, but, quite clearly, and often, gives credit
for success to the whole of the team involved in production. I found her recognition to
the involvement and achievement of John Read, Mary Turner, Derek Meddings, to name
just a few, touching and very humbling.

My Fab Years is not only a compelling story of the making of television history, but also
an encouraging and inspirational book that anyone with a dream they wish to make a
reality should read.

Ce Ce Collins
www.mikebillingtonfans.com

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