The Biography of Captain Bruce Bairnsfather: In Search of the Better 'Ole - Tapa blanda

Bruce Bairnsfather created one of the best-known cartoon characters of the First World War - 'Old Bill' and he drew what many consider to be the most enduring cartoon of all time - the 'Better Ole'. Reprinted due to popular demand this biography was the first to be published about the man and his work During the First World War the contribution of Bairnsfather's work to the morale of the Nation, through laughter, is without question. Indeed there were those who thought he was the 'man who won the war'. The authors trace his life in fascinating detail. This delightful book reveals details of the man who was a compelling paradox - a desperately shy person who adored the limelight, a loyal loveable personality, ridden with suspicion, an upper class product who was more comfortable in the company of the working class man. Bairnsfather's work appears on plates, cups, jugs, mugs and pots, car mascots, ashtrays and the like - all collector's pieces. His characters appear on postcards, playing cards, cigarette card, jig-saw puzzles and during the Second World War on the noses of the daylight bombers of the American Eighth Airforce. The story is lavishly illustrated with over 150 photographs and drawings, and includes a useful section setting out the range and values of Bairnsfather memorabilia and collectables.

Tonie and Valmai Holt are both Fellows of the Royal Society of Arts and have published over fifteen books, including their bestselling Major & Mrs Holt's Battlefield Guide to the Somme (0 85052 414 8) and Major & Mrs Holt's Guide to Ypres (0 85052 551 9). They live in Sandwich, Kent.