We have here a very typical Coffetable Book: Huge format, lots of beautiful pictures, and short, easily readable texts. Despite all this the texts go into considerable detail. If you take your time to read the book from cover to cover, there is a lot to be learned from over 50 years of Dr. Who(s). The author’s emphasis on names makes for some tough reading, especially since I tend to forget names quickly.

Much of the rest is indeed interesting if you want to find out about the development of a TV programme that has its roots in the early years of TV and is still going strong today. It goes to demonstrate how a good story works even when it is produced under simple circumstances, also how primitve TV-sets gracefully covered up the lack of sophistication in design and effects and how the modern-day competition of films shot for the cinema raised expectations of audiences.

The book is organised by years, but this is not followed too stringently. Many topics like viewing figures, merchandise, plot continuity etc. are covered only once or a few time and mor or less randomly presented under one year.

Not a must-buy, but a should-buy for fans of the Doctor.