From the creators of The Laurel & Hardy Podcast and Magazine comes the definitive record of Stan and Ollie’s’ silent era, featuring hundreds of rare and unpublished images and contributions from the world’s leading Laurel and Hardy experts.
Welcome to
“A task slowly done is surely done”
For the past five years we have been working on a book celebrating the films and legacy of Laurel and Hardy, created to mark the 100th anniversary of their teaming at Hal Roach Studios. What began as a relatively small project focused on their early silent films has grown into something far more substantial.
As new research emerged, chapters already written needed to be revisited and expanded, transforming the book into a detailed history rather than a simple film guide. Along the way, collectors and enthusiasts from around the world have generously shared rare images and artefacts, enriching the project beyond our original expectations.
While this has extended the timeline, it has strengthened the book immeasurably. We want to reassure all our supporters that the book will be completed — and that it will be something truly special to look forward to.
The story behind the book — research, discoveries, and growth
Our Launchpad helps move the project toward publication.
A video preview showcasing two chapters from the upcoming book.
Laurel and Hardy: Silents is the ultimate and most comprehensive exploration of the legendary comedy team’s silent film years, now expanded into a two-volume set to accommodate the sheer wealth of images and stories contained within.
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Laurel & Hardy: Silents
2 BOOKS (900 PAGES)
Laurel and Hardy: Silents is the first instalment in a landmark six-volume series that chronicles the entire film career of the beloved comedy duo. Six books, published in three releases, this extraordinary series provides an unparalleled narrative of their lives, films, and the golden age of Hollywood.
A SIX BOOK SERIES COVERING THE ENTIRE FILM CAREER OF LAUREL & HARDY
Crafted with the utmost dedication to quality, and printed on premium paper stock, these books are bound in elegant hardback linen covers adorned with foil lettering for a timeless finish. Each release includes two books, and the price reflects the uncompromising quality of the materials and design. Readers will treasure these volumes as the ultimate celebration of Laurel and Hardy’s legacy.
LINEN BOUND COVERS ADORNED WITH FOIL LETTERING FOR A TIMELESS FINISH
How will it be financed?
The books will be financed through Kickstarter, a system designed to protect both creators and supporters. In simple terms, Kickstarter works on an “all-or-nothing” basis. Supporters pledge funds toward a clearly stated target. If that target is reached, the book goes into print. If it is not reached, no money is taken and all pledges are automatically returned.
Importantly, we will not ask for any financial support until the book is fully completed and ready to go to print. Once the Kickstarter campaign successfully concludes, the finished book will be printed and made available within approximately two to four weeks. This approach ensures transparency, security, and confidence for everyone involved.
When will it be printed?
We expect the Kickstarter campaign to launch in August–September 2026. Subject to its successful completion, the books will be completed in October–November and ready for shipping in time for the festive season.
How much will it cost?
The book will be offered on Kickstarter at a price of £125 ($170 USD). Once the Kickstarter campaign has concluded, any remaining copies will be available at £150 ($200 USD).
This will be a strictly limited print run. With over 1,800 people already registered on our database, we do not expect to print more than 2,000 copies, and there are no plans for any reprints. The book will not be made available through Amazon or any other mass-market platform. Once this project is complete, it will be concluded permanently.
PRICE COMPARISON
Laurel & Hardy (1975)
Single Book 400 Pages Dutton $25.00
TODAYS PRICE EQUIVALENT*
$142 / £105
Laurel & Hardy: Silents
Two Books 900 Pages
ESTIMATED COSTS**
$170 / £125
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*Print price in 1975 $19.99 increasing to $25.00 in 1976 prices to today’s US dollars Formula:Today $ = Then $ × (CPI today ÷ CPI then) Using: CPI-U 1975 annual avg = 53.8b - CPI-U 1976 annual avg = 56.9 - CPI-U Dec 2025 = 324.054
** Please note: the price shown above is an estimated guide only. It is based on the current scope of the project — approximately 900 pages across two volumes. Final pricing will be confirmed when the book launches on Kickstarter.
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