Mike Oldfield gives a lot of detail about the music and recording processes.  However, he is very vague when he refers to his relationships with others, especially women, who - apart from his mother - barely get a mention in the book.

 

Despite his success and the admiration many have for his music, Mike Oldfield comes across as a rather sad and lonely figure, weighed down by his anxieties and social ineptness.  Not the most uplifting read in the world, but if you are interested in his music, then you should read this book.

 

His writing style is also quite naive and peppered with cliches such as 'white as a sheet', 'drugged up to the eyeballs' , 'Jack-the lad character' etc. Also some of his philosphical insights are very simplistic.  In his defense though, he is at pains to tell the reader that he is far more comfortable expressing himself through music rather than words. 

 

There are some very funny sections in the book also.  The account of Richard Branson taking Oldfield on his first balloon flight is priceless.