Books About The Goons

Many books have been written about The Goon Show, it's cast and their lives. The Goons have also written many works. In particular, Spike Milligan produced a long list of novels, memoirs and poetry.

This section focuses on the literature specifically relating to The Goon Show, rather than the more general books that are available. Most of these books contain a selection of background information, scripts and pictures.

Growing Up with The Goons

By Andy Secombe. First published 2010

A new and unique insight into the joys and occasional difficulties of life as a son or daughter of the famous group. It also includes the history of the Goons themselves: their early years; military service and shows at Grafton's and The Windmill.
[Available to buy]

The Goon Show Companion

By Roger Wilmut and Jimmy Grafton. First published 1976

The most comprehensive reference guide to the show. Charts the history of the Goons and includes full listings of all performances and releases.

The Goons, The Story

Edited by Norma Farnes. First published 1997

One of the more recent publications. Tells the story of the show and each individual cast member in detail. Contains a large number of great photos and some scripts.

The Book of the Goons

Spike Milligan, Peter Sellers, Harry Secombe. First published 1974

Contains a rich selection of scripts, inter-goonal correspondance, photos and drawings.

The Story of The Goons

By Alfred Draper. First published 1976

Great book that gives an intimate description of The Goons and the history of the show. No longer in print.

The Goon Show Scripts

By Spike Milligan. First published 1972

Nine Goon Show scripts with drawings by the Goons. Also includes short cast and character details, plus some newspaper clippings. No longer in print.

More Goon Show Scripts

By Spike Milligan. First published 1973

The second book of scripts contains 8 scripts, plus short character, cast and goonology details. No longer in print.

The Lost Goon Shows

By Spike Milligan. First published 1987

Contains six 'lost' scripts and an unfinished one, plus some photos and drawings. No longer in print.

The Goon Cartoons

By Spike Milligan, illustrated by Pete Clarke. First published 1982

Cartoon strips based on four goon shows. No longer in print.

More Goon Cartoons

By Spike Milligan, illustrated by Pete Clarke. First published 1983

The second book of cartoon strips based on another four goon shows. No longer in print.