My Lucky Life In and Out of Show Business

A Memoir

By: Dick Van Dyke

Narrated by: Dick Van Dyke

Length: 7 hrs and 41 mins

Publisher's summary

Dick Van Dyke, indisputably one of the greats of the golden age of television, is admired and beloved by audiences the world over for his beaming smile, his physical dexterity, his impeccable comic timing, his ridiculous stunts, and his unforgettable screen roles.

His trailblazing television program, The Dick Van Dyke Show (produced by Carl Reiner, who has written the foreword to this memoir), was one of the most popular sitcoms of the 1960s and introduced another major television star, Mary Tyler Moore. But Dick Van Dyke was also an enormously engaging movie star whose films, including Mary Poppins and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, have been discovered by a new generation of fans and are as beloved today as they were when they first appeared. Who doesn’t know the word supercalifragilisticexpialidocious?

A colorful, loving, richly detailed look at the decades of a multilayered life, My Lucky Life In and Out of Show Business will enthrall every generation of listener, from baby-boomers who recall when Rob Petrie became a household name to all those still enchanted by Bert’s “Chim Chim Cher-ee”. This is a lively, heartwarming memoir of a performer who still thinks of himself as a “simple song-and-dance man”, but who is, in every sense of the word, a classic entertainer.

©2011 Dick Van Dyke (P)2011 Random House Audio

Critic reviews

“In my opinion, 'Luck’ has little to do with Dick Van Dyke’s life. It is, rather, his innate kindness and talent that have had an extraordinary effect in shaping the man. And what a fascinating self-portrait he’s given us in this book.” (Mary Tyler Moore)

“From the time I worked with Dick on the movie Bye Bye Birdie, I have admired his many talents, not the least of which is the joy and enthusiasm he shares with audiences. I’m a big fan of his... and his book.” (Ann-Margret)

Great story!

It’s always great to hear the humble beginning of a Star. The open and honest story Dick tells makes him even more endearing.

good two show tells tales

nice guy did a lot of interesting things, loved that it was read by the author, didn't love the liberal politics

An admirer

This makes me adore and admire Dick Van Dyke even more than I already did. Listening to him share his stories I could picture everyone of them. Thankful he stood for good, wholesome, hilarious family entertainment! Dick Van Dyke is loved in my home!

Those interested in him will enjoy it

What does Dick Van Dyke bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

The story being told in his own voice, takes a well told account of his road through life and just adds something extra as what he conveys is all the more precise since none know the story better than he.

Any additional comments?

If you're reading this far because you saw Dick Van Dyke, you'll probably enjoy the book a great deal.

above average

I was really wanting something light-hearted and funny it was entertaining at times but from the most part was a little slow marry meandering and other times very dark and difficult. a decent memoir.

Wonderful - a must listen!

I grew up with Dick Van Dyke and his memoir was a delightful trip back memory lane. I thought I knew a lot about him but learned that as with all humans … he is human. There are few performers who evolve and touch others as he has. Mr. Van Dyke - thank you for you many years of service that has inspired millions. With much gratitude.

I highly recommend this book!

felt like reminiscing with a friend

If you want a swashbuckling tale of old Hollywood, find another book. If you want to hear of a good man's life, settle in with this one. Dick Van Dyke wasn't a saint, but you get a feeling of a good-hearted soul as he tells of his hard work and lucky breaks.

Excellent book

Very interesting and informative. Well written and narration was perfectly paced. Learned a lot about Dick Van Dyke that I didn’t know.

Memory Lane

My husband and I are in our late 60’s, and truly identified and enjoyed this trip through Memory Lane. What an outstanding human being, he is and his true love for making people happy through laughter!

His bless his truly remarkable life.

Outstanding in every way!

Always been an admirer of Mr.Van Dyke and his body of work. His positive attitude and humility shine through this overview of life experience. Looking forward to reading his latest ,"Keep Moving".
Especially since it is supposed to highlight his relationship with Arlene. The Van Dykes were an inspiration the good Lord above used to let down my guard, when I was smitten with the love of my life!
He is 16 years my senior. & is everything I dreamed of, and then some. Thanks again, Mr. Van Dyke, for being true to your calling!!
Mrs. Kitty A.