Ratings5
Average rating3.4
'Uproarious and unflinching' Mail on Sunday 'A truly incredible life story' The Sun 'Most memorable . . . told in a voice as distinctive as his spoken one' Independent 'Brims with his gift for genial anecdote' The Sunday Times * * * From the author of the bestselling Blowing the Bloody Doors Off, the original, definitive autobiography of British screen icon and legend Sir Michael Caine. It's been a long journey for Maurice Micklewhite - born with rickets in London's poverty-stricken Elephant & Castle - to the bright lights of Hollywood. With a glittering career spanning more than five decades and starring roles which have earned him two Oscars, a knighthood, and an iconic place in the Hollywood pantheon, the man now known to us as Michael Caine looks back over it all. Funny, warm, honest, Caine brings us his insider's view of Hollywood (where there's neither holly nor woods). He recalls the films, the legendary stars, the off-screen moments with a gift for story-telling only equalled by David Niven. Hollywood has been his home and his playground. But England is where his heart lies. And where he blames the French for the abundance of snails in his garden. A plaque now celebrates him at the Elephant in London. His handprint is one of only 200 since 1927 to decorate the hallowed pavement outside that mecca of Hollywood stars, Grauman's Chinese Theatre. A very British star, The Elephant to Hollywood is the remarkable full circle of Michael Caine's life.
Reviews with the most likes.
Michael Caine strikes me as a nice guy, but the book is kind of tedious and repetitive: “family, friends, home, garden” and “so and so became my close friend” over and over. Not much depth here and the anecdotes are not very interesting.
Pretty light and breezy. Get the audiobook - he reads it and does a great job. Cracks himself up a few times.
Purely Enjoyable.
In what is among the most concise autobiographies I have read, Michael Caine delivers a deluge of wonderful anecdotes. From his youth during World War II, until his 70's, the life of this man will inspire anyone. Humility and humor stand boldly alongside candor as even the less desirable details are addressed.
Of particular interest was his recollections of his National Service and the combat he saw as a young man. These stories are not to be missed.
What I enjoyed most about this book was Caine's ability to remain in awe. His surprise at the luck and success of his career is charming. His explanations of traveling the world are youthful and vigorous. His love and dedication to his wife, children, and grandchildren are inspiring.
Uplifting and entertaining, this book is worth your time.