Synopses & Reviews
Picking up where his bestselling memoir
Never Have Your Dog Stuffed left off-having been saved by emergency surgery after nearly dying on a mountaintop in Chile-beloved actor and acclaimed author Alan Alda offers an insightful and funny look at some impossible questions hes asked himself over the years: What do I value? What, exactly, is the good life? (And what does that even mean?) Here, Alda listens in on things hes heard himself saying at critical points in his life-from the turbulence of the sixties, to his first Broadway show, to the birth of his children, to the ache of September 11, and beyond. Reflecting on the transitions in his life and in all our lives, he notices that “doorways are where the truth is told,” and wonders if theres one thing-art, activism, family, money, fame-that could lead to a “life of meaning.” In a book that is candid, wise, and as questioning as it is incisive, Alda amuses and moves us with his uniquely hilarious meditations on questions great and small.
Praise for Things I Overheard While Talking to Myself
“Engagingly thoughtful and thought-provoking . . . [Alan Alda] candidly shares many stories of his life, so easily and wittily you can hear him speak as you read.”
-Sydney Sun Herald
“Alda is chatty, easygoing and humble, rather like a Mr. Rogers for grownups. His words of inspiration would be a perfect gift for a college grad or for anyone facing major life changes.”
-Publishers Weekly (starred review)
“Smart, engaged, funny and observant.”
-San Antonio Express-News
Synopsis
Actor and bestselling author Alda faces tough questions as he looks back on paths his life has taken--from the turbulence of the 1960s through the ache of September 11th and beyond.
About the Author
Alan Alda is the author of
Never Have Your Dog Stuffed. He is the winner of numerous awards, including six Emmys and six Golden Globes, and has been nominated for an Academy Award. He played Hawkeye Pierce for eleven years on the television series M*A*S*H, has acted in, written, and directed many feature films, and has appeared often on Broadway. His avid interest in science has led to his hosting PBSs Scientific American Frontiers for eleven years. He is married to the childrens book author and photographer Arlene Alda. They have three grown children and seven grandchildren.
From the Hardcover edition.