5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Why is this book not a movie yet? Seriously..., August 8, 2009
This was the third Ben Elton book I've read, albeit this particular book was the one I was originally recommended (by a munter at V Festival, I might add) I actually rate this in my 5 favourite books. `High Society' is written in short sections - not chapters. This fact, along with the obvious subject matter, makes it an ideal book for the non reader. It follows the story of a few central characters, all with a connection to drugs.
Peter Paget is the main character. He is a recently revitalised back bench Labour MP, questing to pass a members bill that legalises all drugs in the UK. Tommy Hanson, the winner of (insert generic music talent show here) and a subsequent British superstar, wants to stop living like a rock'n'roll trash bag. Jessie is a 17 year old Weedgie girl who hastily moves to London, gets hooked on heroin - and ends up on the game. Sonia, an 18 year old Brummy bird gets banged up in a Thai prison for trying to smuggle heroin back to the UK. Samantha Spencer is Paget's beautiful, but emotionally unhinged parliamentary secretary. Paula Wooldridge is a recreational drug user. She is also a hack journalist determined to end Paget's career. Barry Leman is an honest, old school police officer on Paget's side. He is threatened by a couple of corrupt police officers, to keep out of drug policy.
`High Society' is an addictive (pardon the pun) page turner, full of scallywags, reprobates, junkies, drinkers, and party people. Aside from all of this frivolity, there are shrewd thoughts, honest observations, and important questions asked throughout the pages of this book. The topic is poignant, and one of the most controversial issues of our times. Although I'm not fully convinced - Ben Elton argues a good case for the legalisation of drugs.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Tommy Hanson Rules, March 17, 2004
This was my first read or for that matter first exposure to Ben Elton. I was hooked in the very first paragraph, very funny and yes over the top characters. But that is what is fun about the book, a comical stereotypical handling of a very serious subject: Drugs and the possible effects of legalization of drugs. I have often re-read the exerps of the lead character Tommy Hanson the Rock Star. I am currently reading DEAD FAMOUS and will probably read STARK next. Buy HIGH SOCIETY, read it, enjoy it, good read for your next trip by airplane.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Ben Elton always delivers a good read, January 9, 2007
If you're already a Ben Elton fan, you won't be disappointed. Plenty of laughs and keeps you turning pages.
Challenges you to consider today's drug culture and the organised crime that surrounds it, presenting both sides of the story in a light tone.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
