Tackling the show’s history both on and off screen the volume covers the Doctor himself, companions and other allies, monsters, planets, technology, intrusions into popular culture and behind the scenes information.
As you might expect, there are comprehensive Doctor and companion lists, but it is the amusing comic asides that set this book apart. As well as a comparative height chart for all of his bodies, there is a list of all the items pulled from his transcendental pockets and a run down of his assumed identities over the years.
The travels of the Tenth Doctor’s severed hand are chronicled, and the Time Lord’s extended family are charted, family, reaching out to external media such as the comics and Big Finish – though such stretches outside the TV programme are carefully delineated. Although the book makes mention, it is fundamentally centred on what has been seen on screen.
Particularly enjoyable are the sections on the TARDIS with its rundown of controls and functions, each given a reliability rating. The list of historical name drops and ‘celebrity’ historical encounters made for entertaining reading too. We were also fascinated by the map of the Doctor’s earthy travels, which appears to highlight a predilection for Paris as well as the USA in the show’s modern era.
Illustrations throughout the book are provided by Ben Morris. His comic sketch style will be familiar to many through his work in Doctor Who Magazine and it matches the irreverent tone perfectly. As well as the smaller illustrations, there are plenty of comparative graphics such as the rage of sonic screwdrivers and a bar chart tracking the Doctor’s claims regarding his age. One slight grumble is that some of the graphics are a little difficult to read and could have done with a little more room and a larger font size.
This miscellany is great for dipping in and out of and will doubtless raise a chuckle or too, as well as becoming a useful reference bible for fans. One thing that does feel somewhat of a misfire however is the timing of its publication.
The book encompasses everything from 1963 up to the 2012 Christmas special, the show’s first 49 years. Consequently the events of the most recent eight episodes, including the revelations surrounding companion Clara Oswald plus the latest Ice Warrior and Cybermen appearances are not covered.
While this would always be a potential issue when covering an ongoing series, it does make for a slightly out-of-date feel already and we can’t help but wonder if holding until later in the year might have been a better idea as the book seems ideally suited to the Christmas market. On the plus side, if it is popular enough perhaps we can have a revised edition or a volume two in due course.
Published on Thursday 2 May 2013 by BBC Books.
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