The Second City: Backstage at the World's Greatest Comedy Theater [With 2 CDs]

This is an extraordinary chronicle of the most important theater movement in a hundred years. Following "The Compass" by Janet Coleman and "Something Wonderful Right Away" by Jeffrey Sweet, this is required reading. Sheldon Patinkin has captured the story of the people and the times of The Second City in a fashion that will engage those who have not been part of the Improv movement and will give a wonderfully informed perspective the initiated. For the CDs alone, the book is worth it. For the photographs alone, the book is worth it. For the spotlights on personalities it is worth it. The narrative is crisp, and clear, and personal. As I read I felt I was listening to the story told in a kitchen with a beer in my hand. The only thing that he leaves out is mention of the story beyond The Second City of the hundreds of Improv clubs and playing teams and the thousands of players, and now millions of audience members who have never been to a Second City show yet who have been inspired by this great history.

Second City comes with two cds packed with comedy routines and skits, presenting a book which explores the comedy theater's personalities, achievements and founding fathers. Black and white photos from skits pack a lively presentation of Second City routines, personalities and history, making this an exceptional guide for any fan of comedy in general and Second City history in particular. A lovely gift idea.

I used to work at Second City myself and I really liked reading this book. I think Sheldon Patinkin did a very good job of covering the history of the place and his examination of the various changes in style and attitude is very interesting and informative. I wish there were more random memories from alumni and staffers, though. I think the quotes give you more a feel for the place on a personal level and besides that, they're very fun to read. I would also highly recommend the book, "Something Wonderful Right Away", a book that got me and many of my friends interested in the place long before we worked there.