At times, the self-referencing of plot lines is humorous and other times, mildly off-putting. Early on, the Manual lists some “selected case studies.” It’s no coincidence that there are six of these, titled “The Six Most Important Days in CTU History.” Of course these correspond to 24’s six aired seasons. And from there on, nearly every page admonishes the reader with a warning that relates back to an incident from one of those 144 episodes.
For example, in section D5 of Undercover Ops, there’s a notation under the heading Monitor Your Emotional Involvement. “Agent Bauer’s inability to remain detached while living with Diane Huxley and her son Derek in California left more emotional wreckage in the wake of his blown cover then was necessary, and it put Derek’s life at risk as well.”
And of course we read it and think, “nooo, really?”
Overall the handbook is nicely put together (just like our Jack), has tons of not only show trivia, but interesting factoids for anyone who is a fan of general espionage and spy-vs.-spy sorts of games. Although it seems to vacillate somewhat unevenly between wanting to be a serious (albeit fake) government handbook, and a stash of show photo memorabilia, it really is a must-have for any 24 devotee.
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