Always Looking Up

The Adventures of an Incurable Optimist

By: Michael J. Fox

Narrated by: Michael J. Fox

Length: 4 hrs and 32 mins

Publisher's summary

There are many words to describe Michael J. Fox: Actor. Husband. Father. Activist. But listeners of Always Looking Up will soon add another to the list: Optimist. Michael writes about the hard-won perspective that helped him see challenges as opportunities. Instead of building walls around himself, he developed a personal policy of engagement and discovery: an emotional, psychological, intellectual, and spiritual outlook that has served him throughout his struggle with Parkinson's disease.

Michael's exit from a very demanding, very public arena offered him the time and the inspiration to open up new doors leading to unexpected places. One door even led him to the center of his own family, the greatest destination of all.

Always Looking Up is a memoir of Michael's past decade, told through the critical themes of his life: work, politics, faith, and family. The book is a journey of self-discovery and reinvention, and a testament to the consolations that protect him from the ravages of Parkinson's.

With the humor and wit that captivated fans in his first book, Lucky Man, Michael describes how he became a happier, more satisfied person by recognizing the gifts of everyday life.

©2009 Michael J. Fox (P)2009 Hyperion

Thank You Michael J Fox for your honesty

We tend to forget that celebrities are people just like us. Loved that Michael was the narrator. His openness has made me understand what a PD patient goes through and therefore I can understand what my dad may be going through. Michael is just like you and me. Thank you Michael for sharing your story. It means a lot.

Inspiring, moving, admirable... amazing

What did you love best about Always Looking Up?

It's a wonderful message of hope and positivity.

What did you like best about this story?

Michael J. Fox is funny, witty and one hell of an admirable guy.

Which scene was your favorite?

I love everything he says about hope and how he made the best out of his situation.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

The way he talks about his family is extremely moving.

Any additional comments?

It's marvellous! Makes us feel better. Highly recommend it.

Fast, funny in places

I really like Michael J. Fox, so basically this was guaranteed to be a a winner with me.
He narrates, which is a plus, though the talks fast--his delivery seemed to be affected by his Parkinson's (I only had trouble following the story when my daughter was talking at the same time.)
The story moves quickly (regardless of delivery) and jumps around a bit, but is entertaining and sometimes laugh-out-loud funny.
I've read reviews that complained that he shouldn't be telling everyday people how to be optimistic because his life is so good (i.e. of course he's optimistic). He's not being preachy or telling you how to "look on the bright side of life". He tells stories about his life. He's funny. He's had some really amazing experiences. THAT is why one would (and should) read this book.

Inspirational and Funny, by a humble human.

Michael J. Fox story is a really nice one about a thoughtful nice father, husband, and actor.

You spoke to me, brother.

I didn’t need much time to see parallels in your life with what’s going on my world of cancer. I needed your honesty, humor and examples of how to do it right and maybe things to avoid.

Thanks for filling the void!

Wished for more

This book was amazing. Michael J. Fox's narration is wonderful and I was only sad that this book is abridged. I would love to see both of his autobiographical books offered in an unabridged version.

Eye Opener

I really appreciated the candor and the sense of humor that I got from this man whom I already respected and admired for the integrity that he has shown over the years. Aside from giving me a lot to think about when it comes to hardship, this book also widened my perspective on a number of issues and informed me about his own disease and the scientific issues that he fights for.

Michaels love of family.

There’s nothing to dislike. This was a book about real people. One cannot dislike someone’s story about their life.

Deserves the Grammy nomination

I seldom choose abridged titles, and I tend to avoid "Read by the Author" unless the author is a professional performer. I am so glad to listen to this. I found it very inspirational. He tells his story in a way no one else can. Mr. Fox has been through it all, and lays it out frankly. His work on his foundation is a window into the workings of philanthropy that can be a real eye-opener.
Only reason I gave it a 4 instead of a 5 is that I wish it was unabridged.

Michael J Fox in his own voice - inspiring!

I enjoyed hearing Michael J Fox share stories from his own family and childhood to present day, with lessons learned along the way relevant to us all. From his perspective and insights, I learned a great deal as well, particularly about Parkinson's and about stem cell research. Love his humor and warmth as well as his candor. I share his sense of optimism and this was a worthwhile "read / listen" -- Recommended!