Through Time

Doctor Who gets the history it deserves, written by an insider. "Doctor Who" is a classic both of science fiction and television drama.

First broadcast in 1963, it has remained an influential TV presence ever since, is now the jewel in the BBC's crown.

As a vehicle for satire, social commentary, or sheer fantasy adventure, "Doctor Who" is unparalleled.

It was a show created for children, but it was immediately loved by adults.

Arriving at a time of upheaval in the popular arts in Britain, "Doctor Who" was born into a television tradition influenced by the TV plays of Dennis Potter, the cult television drama "The Prisoner", the James Bond films and Stanley Kubrick's science fiction triptych - "Dr Strangelove", "2001: A Space Odyssey" and "A Clockwork Orange".

A British fantasy adventure that has unfolded across television screens over decades in the tradition of Lewis Carroll, Conan Doyle and HG Wells, the strength of "Doctor Who" has always been its writers and the ideas they nurtured. In this new history of the show, Andrew Cartmel (who was the script editor on "Doctor Who" from 1987 to 1990) looks into its social and cultural impact - providing a fascinating read for committed and casual fans alike. Originally published in 2005, this is a new updated edition, including the "new" series and other updates.