What's It All About

This book is inspiring. Michael Caine knew at a very young age that he wanted to act, and through perseverance, he has become highly successful and one of the most respected actors of our time, with two Academy Awards to his credit. This should serve to encourage those with dreams but who tell themselves "I'll never make it."This is the real thing. Caine starts at the beginning and tells it all without indiscreet name dropping. He mentions that he does not plan to write another autobiography and so does not want to leave anything out. That makes for a really great read. But what's really special about this autobiography is how approachable Caine seems to be. He comes across as just a regular guy whom you could approach on the street and say hi. Considering that most of the other autobiographies I've read, however great they may be, still seem like stories told by a celebrity who has deigned to share his/her life story, that in itself is an amazing accomplishment.

A highly entertaining autobiography from one of the film world's greatest raconteurs. It covers his childhood during the London Blitz, his early training as a stage actor, his combat service in the Korean War (and why the smell of garlic frightens him to this day), a decade as a literally starving actor in London, and his big break in "Zulu." He crossed paths with an amazing number of the sixties' movers and shakers, and he tells wonderful stories. Having had a truly blessed career, Michael Caine is a living example of the adage that what we call "good luck" is really the art of recognizing opportunity when it falls in your lap, and having the courage to act on it. Highly Recommended!

I've very much enjoyed Mr. Caine as an actor and I purchased the hardback edition in 1993 (or 1992?) at his book-signing event in San Francisco. I was very surprised to meet a "celebrity" who came across in such a pleasant and informal manner that I felt as if I were talking to a favorite relative. I had primarily been impressed by his willingness to take on a variety of roles simply out of his love for acting. My brief encounter with him left me even more curious about the overall character of the man. His bio was a very insightful read. If you like the man's work, you'll be delighted and amused by this book.

If you enjoy reading autobiographies, this is one of the best ever. Superbly written, it has outlined Mr. Caine's life and foray into the film industry with incisive and comedic prose. Most impressive, in my opinion, is his mother's aid and compassion in helping her son to achieve his dream. I highly recommend this to everyone.

Michael Caine tells the story of his life, not from the point of view of a hollywood superstar, but from that of someone who has worked bloody hard to get where he is and has not lost touch with where he came from. A brilliant biography even if you're not a fan. It is funny as well as interesting, so buy it.