This book chronicles the tumultuous first decade of Private Eye, a satirical magazine that defied expectations to become a British institution. Richard Ingrams, one of its founders, details the magazine's improbable origins and the unique editorial collaborations that fueled its early success. It navigates the challenges of advertiser boycotts and distribution hurdles, showcasing the wit and agility with which the publication established itself as England's most sued magazine.

This early biography of Private Eye, written by one of its key figures, Richard Ingrams, offers an insider's perspective on the magazine's formative years. The text focuses on the collaborative spirit and the audacious content that defined its initial decade. It highlights the publication's remarkable ability to withstand pressures from advertisers and distributors, cementing its reputation for fearless satire. The selections and narrative suggest a deep dive into the specific humor and political commentary that made Private Eye a unique fixture in British journalism.