With a title as long and grand as its 300 plus pages, imposing dimensions and £35 price tag, Dalek: The Astounding Untold History of The Greatest Enemies of the Universe promises a lot and in the main delivers. The creation of George Mann, Cavan Scott and Justin Richards, it’s packed with contributions from Paul Magrs, Nick Briggs, Eric Saward, Mike Tucker and Terrance Dicks.
So, what is it, exactly? Well, as you might surmise, it presents the history of the Daleks in various chunks – creation, Skaro, Dalek Wars, Time War and many others. It mixes the real world (how were they created, and how were they nearly not created), new short stories, comic strips and fantastic new illustrations from Alex Fort, as well as photos from the series, Dalek jigsaw puzzle boxes and even touches on their audio adventures.
It’s a big coffee table book, and more than many it’s numerous short features make it ideal for dipping into. For the most part the core of the book is from the point of view of the Daleks: it’s their history, their conquests and their slaves how take centre stage, with cultural and TV context draped around their relentless conquest of as much of the universe as can be taken. We see the Daleks on stage, in exhibition and even on stage.
The Doctor is ever-present, of course, but never takes centre stage – this is not his book. Davros also makes an appearance or two, as do the Cybermen and Movellans. It’s all blended together well, with elements of all eras of Doctor Who helping to paint the overall picture.
Behind a somewhat drab cover, there is plenty in here to interest any fan of the Daleks. The price might make them think twice, but those that give in to temptation should be very pleased with the results.
DALEK: THE ASTOUNDING UNTOLD HISTORY OF THE GREATEST ENEMIES OF THE UNIVERSE / AUTHOR: GEORGE MANN, CAVAN SCOTT, JUSTIN RICHARDS / PUBLISHER: BBC BOOKS / RELEASE DATE: OUT NOW
