First published 2011
Dick Van Dyke opens his memoir as a performer who considers himself simply a song and dance man, though audiences worldwide know him as a television and film legend. He traces his path through the golden age of television, where his pioneering sitcom became one of the most popular shows of the 1960s and launched Mary Tyler Moore to stardom. Carl Reiner produced the series that made Rob Petrie a household name. Van Dyke's movie career brought him to Disney films that captivated multiple generations, including his role as Bert singing "Chim Chim Cher-ee" and introducing the word supercalifragilisticexpialidocious to popular culture. Throughout decades in entertainment, he maintained his reputation for physical comedy, impeccable timing, and that characteristic beaming smile. This memoir spans multiple layers of his life, offering readers from baby boomers to new fans a detailed look at his journey through show business.
Genres: 20th-century, autobiography, biography-memoir, 21st-century
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: memoir, rags-to-riches
Period: Golden Age of Television
287 pages · Hardcover · Crown Archetype