James P. Bruce

ABOUT THIS BOOK

Brian Cleeve was a star of Irish television during the 1960s. In that first heady decade of RTÉ’s existence Gay Byrne might have been top of the tree, but Brian was not far below him. By the early-1970s, however, Brian Cleeve was gone from our TV screens.

If you want to find out how and why, you will have to read my book. But Brian’s own explanation is summed up in the title, “Television doesn’t like rebels”.

And Brian Cleeve was a rebel.

This is a new edition of my biography of Brian Cleeve published in 2007. Television doesn't like rebels includes new information about Brian's espionage activities during World War 2.  I have also revised and tightened up the original text, added sub-headings within each chapter, and changed the fonts from serif to sans serif.  I hope the changes enhance my biography of this truly fascinating man. 

WHAT THE CRITICS SAID ABOUT THE FIRST EDITION

"A sympathetic and fascinating account. It makes enthralling reading." Peter Tremayne - author of the Sister Fidelma Mysteries

"Brian's early years read like something dreamed up by Evelyn Waugh; his is a swashbuckling story, criss-crossed by shady government forces, elusive black marketeers, obscure counts and smuggled diamonds, now carefully chronicled in Jim Bruce's biography." Sunday Independent

"This work was obviously carefully researched, and it shows. Not only are the events of Cleeve's life explained as fully as possible, the author also shows what was happening in the world around Cleeve, from politics to global affairs, in order for the reader to gain a greater understanding of the motivations of the time."   armchairinterviews.com

GET YOUR COPY

Television doesn't like rebels will be launched on 22nd November 2024 in Shanganagh Park House, Shankill, Co. Dublin. The event is free and will run from 17:00-19:00. Copies of the book will be on sale for €20 (cash only please). 

All are welcome.