A unique collection of stories, stand-up routines, sketches and interviews from comic legend Dave Allen, drawn together with the full co-operation of his family. 'A wonderful anthology of Allen's very best material.' JACK DEE

When Dave Allen passed away in March 2005, we lost a true comedy great. Sitting cross-legged on a high stool, whiskey in one hand, cigarette in the other, Dave Allen's exasperated commentaries on the absurdities of modern life struck a chord with millions of fans in Britain, Ireland and Australia for over four decades. He was a compelling storyteller - able to spin shaggy dog stories out of the almost any subject, including the missing tip of his fourth finger of his left hand, for which he provided various unlikely explanations. But his gentle, laconic wit could also give way to ferocious attacks on the media, the state and, most famously, the Catholic Church. He was a unique talent - a comic who could make his audiences laugh, cry, and be shocked, all in one.

This official celebration of Dave Allen's comedy has been drawn together by Graham McCann - Britain's best-loved entertainment writer. It is a treasure trove of stories, stand-up routines, sketches, interviews and photos, which takes us on a journey from the cradle to the grave. It will delight Dave Allen's million of fans, old and new alike.

'Dave Allen was our greatest storyteller and nobody ever came close to his ability to spin a yarn. He was unique, right up there with the greats.' Jack Dee

"'The Essential Dave Allen does exactly what it says on the tin, taking all his best material from the last four decades and collating them into pertinent sections. A great man is sorely missed, The Essential Dave Allen reminds us what a unique brain we had in our midst for so long.'" - Irish Independent

"'I thought the jokes would fall flat without that mellow Irish delivery and impeccable timing, but they fly off the page like candy-coated barbs. McCann's book offers interesting observations, too, about the man himself.'" - Daily Telegraph

"'He was an original. He carved his own path ... and he was a torchbearer for all the excellent Irish comics who have followed in recent years.' Eddie Izzard" - Eddie Izzard