Once called a legend in his own time slot, Garry Marshall has been among the most successful writers, directors, and producers in America for more than five decades. As a comedy writer who began his career during television’s last “golden age” writing for Dick Van Dyke, he went on to produce some of the most beloved sitcoms in television history, including The Odd Couple, Happy Days, Laverne & Shirley, and Mork & Mindy.
Marshall’s enormous influence as a director has been felt in film as well, in such classic motion pictures as The Flamingo Kid, Beaches, Pretty Woman, and The Princess Diaries. His work on the big screen has delighted audiences for the last three decades and has withstood the test of time.
In My Happy Days in Hollywood, Marshall takes us on a journey from his stickball-playing days in the Bronx to his time at the helm of some of the most popular television series and movies of all time, sharing the joys and challenges of working with the Fonz and the young Julia Roberts, the “street performer” Robin Williams, and the young Anne Hathaway, among many others.
This honest, vibrant, and often hilarious memoir reveals a man whose career has been defined by his drive to make people laugh and whose personal philosophy - despite his tremendous achievements - has always been that life is more important than show business.
©2012 Garry Marshall (P)2012 Random House
"Garry Marshall is walking entertainment. He is smart, insightful, funny… and so is his book.” (Henry Winkler)
"Even though he speaks slowly with a distinctive New Yorkese Bronx accent, he has managed to quickly create, write, and produce a raft of beloved television series that speak 'American'. I am happy that he gifted us with a witty memoir.” (Carl Reiner)
“Thanks to my brother I have a life. I’m sorry I almost ruined his during Laverne & Shirley.” (Penny Marshall)
Like mainly mystery and suspense with a bit of chick lit and non-fiction thrown in. Severe addiction going on 10 years to Audiobooks.
"Heartfelt, Open and Honest"
It sounded like the recording was uneven. I found myself adjusting the volume a lot. I have never had to do that before with an Audiobook. I loved having Garry Marshall tell his story as the narrator however if you aren't used to listening to a very thick NY accent, you may have a hard time with it.
He has had a fascinating life. He knows everyone, and is one of the biggest players in Hollywood, however is very, very down to earth. There aren't any Hollywood shockers or scandals disclosed, but a real life, honest glimpse into a powerhouse's life. It is a good listen.
"A must have read, absolutely fabulous!"
I thoroughly enjoyed this book; Garry was talking about all my favourite shows and it was just so fascinating to hear the producer's/writer's perspective and to get an idea of what goes on behind the scenes. I highly recommend this book. As a PS: Thoroughly enjoyed listening to Garry's Bronx accent, I loved it.
I live in Thailand, and love to listen to audible.
"Excellent and interesting"
I really enjoyed this book. It's good that Garry Marshall narrated it himself, because he knows the names and the stories. I like his outlook on life. Great book - it held my interest from beginning to end. Lots of little interesting tidbits about the TV shows and movies. Get it!
"Fun- positive- HAPPY!"
I've always enjoyed Garry Marshall as an actor, director and a personality. This memoir did not disappoint. It was as upbeat as an episode of Happy Days. He has some bumps in the road, but he keeps perspective and keeps moving.
"Happy Days is entertaining"
Garry reading the story added to the story certainly
Rob Lowe biography read by him
most all the characters were familiar
"Stellar audio book"
I loved this book -- could even listen to it again. Garry Marshall reads his memoir as though he were chatting with the reader about his life. His Brooklyn accent and dry humor were perfect ! And, his isights and retelling of his childhood, family, military, professional life are always interesting no matter what phase of life he's in. His family's life in tv and the movies, as well as the many, many entertainment people he has known, worked with, has as friends -- a wonderful look at tv from its earliest days through the present along with movies. Made me laugh, helped me remember, kept me interested -- I highly recommend this audiobook.
author of books for teens and children
"Fun Book"
I loved hearing Garry Marshall's New Yawk accent and great comic timing. He seems like a very nice guy, and it was fascinating to hear details about Happy Days, Laverne and Shirley, Pretty Woman, and other TV shows and movies he wrote and/or directed. I enjoyed his positive attitude, work ethic, family values, and humor.
"Terrific all the way through"
Yes! Listening to Garry Marshall narrate was at least half the fun. He was wonderful.
Garry Marshall himself was the best character
I especially liked his stories about directing his movies. I also liked listening to him talk about his childhood in the Bronx.
I laughed out loud several times. It was wonderful.
I have recommended this audio book to several people.
"Director's POV"
I have no idea... I don't have the print version...
When Garry talks about battling cancer, not telling people, and still carrying on at work. He shares his concerns of life and his concerns and affection for other people.
His voice. I love that the author is reading it. It's almost like you can feel him remember his story. His tone of voice just brings the entire thing to life. It's good to hear him tell his story.
Being a film student and knowing that it's incredibly hard to be on film sets, it was nice to see messing around happening on pro sets too. He talks about how on one day, he got really upset and threw his cane into the air and it hit someone. So the next day everyone wore hard hats.
This is a great account of this guys story. It was very entertaining to listen to.
"Great LOL stuff here."
Thie history of some of my favorite TV shows and movies are fascinating. Garry Marshall's honesty and performance make this audio book a winner.