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Lyttelton jazz classic pulled forward

28.04.08 Jo Young

Anova Books has brought forward plans for the re-issue of Humphrey Lyttelton's classic The Best of Jazz, following the death of the author, broadcaster and jazz musician on Friday. The book was scheduled for re-issue in paperback in July this year, but Anova is now aiming to have copies available for sale within the next two weeks.

The 86-year-old Lyttelton, who was the host of Radio Four's successful long-running show I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue, died after planned heart surgery.

He was the author of several books on jazz music, the first of which, I Play as I Please, was printed in 1958. He wrote The Best of Jazz in 1978, followed by a second volume in 1981. His last book It Just Occurred to Me. . . was also published by Anova in September 2006.

"We are now trying to bring the book out as soon as possible, which we think will be within two weeks. Because Humphrey Lyttelton was such a well-loved character, we expect that everyone is now going to want his stuff, particularly The Best of Jazz, which was extremely popular the first time," said Helen Ponting, marketing manager for Anova Books.

Chief executive Robin Wood added: "Humph was not only a fantastic author - kind, generous with an infamous dry wit, he was also a lovely man and the most gifted musician. Our favourite memory was his triumphal gig in the Anova courtroom at our LBF party in 2007. I can honestly say that he will live long in the memories of all Anova staff."

Anova Jo Young Humphrey Lyttelton

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