On the Edge

By: Richard Hammond

Narrated by: Richard Hammond, Mindy Hammond

Length: 3 hrs and 6 mins

Publisher's summary

Richard Hammond describes his childhood and adolescence and the emergence of the adrenalin junkie, the first ridiculous stunts on his tricycle, and an increasing and near-obsessive attraction to speed and the smell of petrol. He finds an attractive girl, Mindy, who shares his interests and helps him organise his high-speed life. For such a lively and intelligent communicator, TV beckons and he becomes one of the daredevil trio, with Jeremy Clarkson and James May, who make such an enormous world-wide success of the revamped BBC-TV programme Top Gear.

He describes the personalities, the camaraderie, and the stunts with which they entertain their weekly audiences until the day of his 300 mph crash that took Top Gear off the air and plunged a nation into mourning. The day of the crash, his rescue and the flight to hospital in a coma are described, and then Mindy recounts the anxious waiting until he finally emerges from his coma to immediately pull out all his life-support equipment.

Richard then pieces together the stages of recovery as his shattered mind slowly reforms. We learn exactly what happened to him and the milestones in his slow recovery to full health. The final chapter recounts the return to Top Gear and the screening of the events of that fateful day.

©2007 Richard Hammond (P)2007 Orion Publishing Group Ltd

Inspiring

I didn't expect to cry during the reading of a story written from a guy at top gear, but I nearly did. The emotions in this book are so very well conveyed that the reader has no choice but to give in to the story.

I LOVE this so much.

Richard Hammond and his wife Mindy narrated this audiobook and its amazing. It's about the his recovery from the brain damage he suffered from the jet-car crash. Well done to the both of you! 👏👏👏

great read

one of several car nuts I've enjoyed for year greatcread on a life experience I hope not to many have to deal with but great to know there are families who still have unconditional love and support of there spouse
thanks Richard and Family for sharing

Inspirational story of love and dedication!

I consider myself addicted to TopGear and even the Grand Tour. For years I've watched the re-runs and enjoy all three presenters. While I was aware of Hammond's crash, I really glossed over it as a small hiccup in the show. This book was a eye opener. Hammond's "crash" was a life changing event for both him, his marriage and the way he looks at the world. Well written, well narrated (especially by his wife Mindy) and inspirational. If you, (like me) liked Richard before, wait till you're done this book. It was wonderful.

awesome!

if you've ever watched Top Gear you need to read this book. it's both funny and inspiring. classic Richard Hammond

About the accident, but mostly about his recovery

This was a brutally honest and very intimate book about Richard Hammond's accident and especially, his recovery from severe brain damage. He did have me laughing at times, but this book is not a reflection of the silliness that is at the forefront in Top Gear. That being said, it was a very enjoyable read. I gained many insights into what suffering and recovering from a brain injury may be like. This book would be helpful for anyone with loved ones who have suffered similar injuries. It would enable them to understand what they are going through a bit better.

In the end I would have to say this is also a love story. You could really feel the emotions from his wife's voice, and could appreciate the love, support and patience exhibited by everyone involved. This was a very candid, intimate, and touching story.

Richard himself narrated the chapters in the book that were from his perspective, but the vast majority of the book was read by his wife Mindy. (And very well narrated at that).

Wonderful, funny, heart felt account of difficulty

Richard Hammond is a well loved British face and this open account of his recent accident was so touching. His wife, Mindy's account of the experience moved me to tears. It is also an uplifting book, highly recommended for anyone who has suffered a brain injury or anyone who is just a fan of cars!

Lovely

So sincere and informative. It just shows we have amazing amazing people among us, Hamster is obviously one of them.

Excellent Read..or Listen

If you could sum up On the Edge in three words, what would they be?

A love story mixed with good humour, near tragedy and excellent story line...

What did you like best about this story?

The whole thing whizzed along and was easy to follow or pick up on during a break in listening

Which character – as performed by Richard Hammond and Mindy Hammond – was your favorite?

Both great as themselves

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes

Any additional comments?

Recommended highly....and I don't do these review things....so it's a high recommendation

Great book

I loved it, completed it in just one take in the middle of the night