Customer Reviews

The Man from U.N.C.L.E. Book: The Behind-the-Scenes Story of a Television Classic

5 star:		(22)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(7)
2 star:		(6)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I can't quite figure out the problem the few negative reviewers have with the book. I think their problem is more with the UNCLE series than with the book, or with a childhood they'd rather not remember. If you liked the series (with the exception of most of the 3rd season, which many believe was a disaster, and Heitland explains why)you'll like the book. If you didn't like the series you'll understandably not think much of the book. I loved the series, and even though as an adult I can see its short-comings, I enjoyed the book because it touched that part of my imagination that was filled with awe and wonder by the show. At the age of 12 and 13 I did not want to see behind the scenes-- the fantasy was too wonderful. U.N.C.L.E. was real to me. As an adult I enjoy reading about the mechanics of the series and having a fuller knowledge of a show that helped my imagination to grow.
If you're a real Man From U.N.C.L.E. fan, do yourself a favor and buy the book.

This is the best book on "The Man from UNCLE" ever written. I've read the UNCLE Files and they just don't compare to this book. All these negative reviews must be from younger people who were not around when this show first appeared. Everything they know about secret agents they got from Austin Powers.When I read they should use an Uzi and not the UNCLE special it reminds me of Scott Evil saying "why don't you just shoot him "and Dr. Evil saying "you just don't get it do you Scott" .
They just don't get it.

I've read a number of books about various TV series and this one is easily the finest of them all. Each page is densely packed with an amazing amount of detail. I've never seen such a thoroughly researched book in all my life. It's as though the author were able to go back in time and eavesdrop on every stage of the show's development. An amazing work. Better still, the writing style is enjoyable. There's nothing dry about this book. I've reread it several times. It also makes a great reference book on the series. I find myself refering back to various chapters all the time. Congratulations are due to author Jon Heitland. Fans of this wonderful show owe him a true debt of gratitude.

I recently bought this book from this great Amazon site and am very pleased with it. It contains many rare pictures from the show and insights into the production of one of my favorite shows on 60s television. The price was very reasonable and I am glad that I ordered it. Highly recommended book!

The classic SPY series, The Man From U.N.C.L.E. ruled the airwaves in the 1960's and rode the crest of the worldwide spy craze. Author Jon Heitland takes you deep inside the show, at every step from development through to the end of it's spectacular four year run, and the influences that brought this show down well before its time. The stars of the show became pop idols, and even the props on the show received volumes of fan mail. Better than any other writer of a TV show history, Jon Heitland makes you feel as though you are there, and breaths life into the show again. Each page is densely packed with facts, while at the same time keeping the book highly readable. He is a skilled researcher and a talented writer and he has chosen a subject that is much more than just a TV classic, it was a cultural force in one of the most fascinating decades of the 20th Century.

I bought this book when it was first published. Being a Man From UNCLE fan this book brought back so many wonderful memories. It was well worth the price when I bought it originally. It allowed me to travel back to those days when I could not wait for the next episode of The Man From UNCLE. Very informative and a great find for UNCLE or any 60's cult television fan.

The Man from U.N.C.L.E. Tv series was the most innovative & creative Tv series of all time, specially during the first seasons. It became a Tv & commercial hit. Heitland's Man from U.N.C.L.E. book does the series justice. It is full of interesting behind the scene photos as well as nostalgic promotion photos. The narrative is detailed. Heitland interviwed the stars & the behind the camera staff. He produced a very informative book on the series' creation, production, success, changes & eventual end. An excellent book for all U.N.C.L.E. fans & for all who are interested in Tv history & for all who just want a good book.

I had so much fun reading this book and reliving the enthusiasm I had for UNCLE as a teen. Mr. Heitland is a friendly presence throughout, affording us details and hindsight on what made the UNCLE universe so popular. Everything you ever wanted to know, and then some!

Jon Heitland delves into incredible detail about how this wonderful, trend-setting spy series came into being, later essentially destroyed itself with self-parody & camp, then tried too late for redemption. Featuring interviews with surviving crew & cast, Heitland's exhaustive research provides far more than just a sentimental journey down memory lane -- he gives insight into a pop culture icon & the turbulent generation into which it was born & helped to shape. A must for any serious U.N.C.L.E. fan, & a cracking good read even for the most casual viewer.

This book is a classic itself and it has everything a reader -- and fan of classic television could want! I particularly enjoyed the behind the scenes look at the personalities and dynamics that made this show such a memorable one. Baby boomers grew up as U.N.C.L.E. agents and this is a wonderful way to step back into time without having to wear those ugly white go-go boots! Anyone who isn't instantly charmed by Heitland's obvious love of the show and exacting detail just has to be a Thrush agent! Well worth the price -- especially for the episode guide and listing of MFU publications. This book's a classic on its own.