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The Garner Files: A Memoir
After suffering physical abuse at the hands of his stepmother, Garner left home at fourteen. He became Oklahoma’s first draftee of the Korean War and was awarded with two Purple Hearts before returning to the United States and settling in Los Angeles to become an actor. Working alongside some of the most renowned celebrities, including Julie Andrews, Marlon Brando, and Clint Eastwood, Garner became a star in his own right, despite struggles with stage fright and depression. In The Garner Files, this revered actor and quintessential self-made man recalls “trying to decipher” William Wyler with Audrey Hepburn and Shirley MacLaine, breaking Doris Day’s ribs, having a “heart-to-heart and eyeball-to-eyeball” with Steve McQueen, being “a card-carrying liberal—and proud of it,” and much more
273 pages, Hardcover
First published November 1, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 449 reviews
November 8, 2011
Reading "The Garner Files" James Garner's long awaited memoirs written with Jon Winokur is like being in the room with Jim having a "one on one" conversation. Jim's voice comes through loud and clear (Very loud when the need arises). Having spent two years on the set of "The Rockford Files" I can attest that Jon Winokur does an excellent job of letting Jim do the talking. Jim's wonderful sense of humor, dry wit and yes his shyness comes through revealing a man who in my opinion is so good at his craft, he doesn't have to brag about his talents, he lets the work speak for itself.
His love of golf and his "Antics" on the links are some of the funniest moments of the book. Reading Jim's telling of his ability "To bury a golf club in the turf" I swore I was sitting in Jim's motor home on the set of "Rockford" laughing along with everyone else. I am so thrilled that Jon Winokur was able to do what biographers for years have been unable to do. To get James Garner to talk about...James Garner.
Whether he's Rockford, Maverick, Murphy Jones, Charlie Madison or any of the other wonderful characters Jim has played in over fifty years of acting, in "The Garner Files" you get Jim Garner, and his no holes barred approach to life, love, acting, politics all in that warm voice that comes off the page and touches our hearts like James Garner has done for 83 years.
His love of golf and his "Antics" on the links are some of the funniest moments of the book. Reading Jim's telling of his ability "To bury a golf club in the turf" I swore I was sitting in Jim's motor home on the set of "Rockford" laughing along with everyone else. I am so thrilled that Jon Winokur was able to do what biographers for years have been unable to do. To get James Garner to talk about...James Garner.
Whether he's Rockford, Maverick, Murphy Jones, Charlie Madison or any of the other wonderful characters Jim has played in over fifty years of acting, in "The Garner Files" you get Jim Garner, and his no holes barred approach to life, love, acting, politics all in that warm voice that comes off the page and touches our hearts like James Garner has done for 83 years.
September 12, 2024
Much like Paul Newman, James Garner emerges from a different age. Theirs was a time in which the culture defined them as "real" men, or "a man's man," and everybody was fine with that. It was less about the gender than it was about making a distinction. Strength, integrity, common sense and an adventurous spirit. (Devilishly attractive was a plus but not necessary; see Charlton Heston, Charles Bronson, John Wayne or, conversely, sleepy-eyed Robert Mitchum who was rarely included as a paragon of the sort of man men strove to be.)
Newman and Garner shared this era and a number of its interests. Both were actors and, through acting, developed passions for car racing; forming teams that competed professionally, and were respected as drivers on tracks around the world. Both were socially conscious and participated in political protest. Both guarded their private lives, spouses and children. And both gave a thought to memoir - yet where Mr. Newman opted to explore the early conflicts that fashioned his character and frequently drove his choice-making, Mr. Garner decided to keep those cards closer to his vest.
There is mention here of a difficult childhood, though this is a stage he touches on far too lightly to provide his later years with substantial depth. Instead he takes the road of the raconteur, supplying his stories - and generously so - but leaving us to guess at why that fist was so often cocked and his temper so notorious on the golf course. Still, his co-stars and crews adored him; many in his industry cherishing the friendship and grateful for his thoughtfulness in times of need. There's not a lot of dish to be had, but his opinions are delivered in abundance and are offered unapologetically.
James Garner appears to have remained ensconced in that era, and to be honest? It worked for him.
Newman and Garner shared this era and a number of its interests. Both were actors and, through acting, developed passions for car racing; forming teams that competed professionally, and were respected as drivers on tracks around the world. Both were socially conscious and participated in political protest. Both guarded their private lives, spouses and children. And both gave a thought to memoir - yet where Mr. Newman opted to explore the early conflicts that fashioned his character and frequently drove his choice-making, Mr. Garner decided to keep those cards closer to his vest.
There is mention here of a difficult childhood, though this is a stage he touches on far too lightly to provide his later years with substantial depth. Instead he takes the road of the raconteur, supplying his stories - and generously so - but leaving us to guess at why that fist was so often cocked and his temper so notorious on the golf course. Still, his co-stars and crews adored him; many in his industry cherishing the friendship and grateful for his thoughtfulness in times of need. There's not a lot of dish to be had, but his opinions are delivered in abundance and are offered unapologetically.
James Garner appears to have remained ensconced in that era, and to be honest? It worked for him.
October 2, 2016
My favourite books are thrillers, mysteries of all kinds.
But I am a film buff, and love the real legends of the 30's, 40's, 50's, 60's.
They were legends, and great to read autobiographies and biographies.
James Garner for me will always be remembered for his role in "The Great Escape", and then also in " Move Over Darling" and "The Americanisation of Emily".
Three of my favourites, and it seems three of James Garner's favourites.
This is a quick, light read, the book in a way tells you his character, private man, so there is no in depth secrets or gossip, yes he had strong opinions, a mad temper.
It shows his love of golf, his love of motor racing, which actually is not far off half the book, but less is discussed about the actors her worked with.
Throughout the book he mentions only a few actors he did not like, Charles Bronson being one, Steve McQueen, Lee Marvin, the ones he liked Marlon Brando, Henry Fonda, Julie Andrews, Doris Day, Charles Durning and others.
One quarter of the book is comments from friends and families and also his comments on all his films, and he scores his own films.
Liked and admired him as an actor, but a little too light hearted to make a great book.
Three stars from me
But I am a film buff, and love the real legends of the 30's, 40's, 50's, 60's.
They were legends, and great to read autobiographies and biographies.
James Garner for me will always be remembered for his role in "The Great Escape", and then also in " Move Over Darling" and "The Americanisation of Emily".
Three of my favourites, and it seems three of James Garner's favourites.
This is a quick, light read, the book in a way tells you his character, private man, so there is no in depth secrets or gossip, yes he had strong opinions, a mad temper.
It shows his love of golf, his love of motor racing, which actually is not far off half the book, but less is discussed about the actors her worked with.
Throughout the book he mentions only a few actors he did not like, Charles Bronson being one, Steve McQueen, Lee Marvin, the ones he liked Marlon Brando, Henry Fonda, Julie Andrews, Doris Day, Charles Durning and others.
One quarter of the book is comments from friends and families and also his comments on all his films, and he scores his own films.
Liked and admired him as an actor, but a little too light hearted to make a great book.
Three stars from me
December 31, 2011
Reading this book was a special experience in that I felt as though I was reading the words of an old friend or more to the point the words of a member of the family. In many respects James Garner is like family as he has been welcomed into our home for as long as I can remember. He is that rare actor with whom we develop that special relationship that makes him seem like family. While we might enjoy watching the movies of Brando, DeNiro and others they do not convey that warmth and humanity that would make us feel as though we could set an extra place for them at the dinner table. We would do that for James Garner and he would probably help clear the table and wash the dishes.
The Garner Files also served to reinforce the desire of my youth to grow up to be James Garner. Through the eyes of my youth I saw James Garner as the coolest and most handsome son of a gun to appear on either the tv or movie screen. I was not alone in thinking that of course as millions of others felt the same. But as I grew older I began to see James Garner as someone who was not only handsome and cool but also someone who epitomized the term "nice guy" and a man of great principle. The Garner Files proves this to be true. His account of his life both professionally and personally are revealing, touching and remind us yet again why we like this guy so much and have for so long and why he is like family. I've never met him but after reading The Garner Files I feel as though I have.
The Garner Files also served to reinforce the desire of my youth to grow up to be James Garner. Through the eyes of my youth I saw James Garner as the coolest and most handsome son of a gun to appear on either the tv or movie screen. I was not alone in thinking that of course as millions of others felt the same. But as I grew older I began to see James Garner as someone who was not only handsome and cool but also someone who epitomized the term "nice guy" and a man of great principle. The Garner Files proves this to be true. His account of his life both professionally and personally are revealing, touching and remind us yet again why we like this guy so much and have for so long and why he is like family. I've never met him but after reading The Garner Files I feel as though I have.
December 30, 2011
My Review of “The Garner Files”
By Jim Suva
I finished reading The Garner Files. I highly recommend this book to everyone. Jon Winokur has done an excellent job with James Garner in writing one of the best memoirs I have ever read.
It tells a wonderful story of Mr. Garner’s life, that shows a man who lives by a basic code of what is right. He is just a regular guy doing what he feels is best and fair for himself and other people. It is so nice to read about a person who is honest about his life and does not sugarcoat anything. His honesty is refreshing in our world of non-responsibility. Through this book you can see why James Garner is loved by so many people all over the world.
My favorite chapter is “Act-ing”. It gives you a great insight into the man, and Jon Winokur has done an excellent job getting Mr. Garner to open up about his private life. I felt badly that one of our great actors felt he had lost his anonymity, so he can no longer do some of the simple things in life that we take for granted. I have a number of items s he has autographed for me over the years, and I now feel guilty for bothering him for them, although I will treasure them forever.
I thank Jon Winokur for giving me a new perspective on this wonderful man, James Garner. I will reread this book many times I am sure.
By Jim Suva
I finished reading The Garner Files. I highly recommend this book to everyone. Jon Winokur has done an excellent job with James Garner in writing one of the best memoirs I have ever read.
It tells a wonderful story of Mr. Garner’s life, that shows a man who lives by a basic code of what is right. He is just a regular guy doing what he feels is best and fair for himself and other people. It is so nice to read about a person who is honest about his life and does not sugarcoat anything. His honesty is refreshing in our world of non-responsibility. Through this book you can see why James Garner is loved by so many people all over the world.
My favorite chapter is “Act-ing”. It gives you a great insight into the man, and Jon Winokur has done an excellent job getting Mr. Garner to open up about his private life. I felt badly that one of our great actors felt he had lost his anonymity, so he can no longer do some of the simple things in life that we take for granted. I have a number of items s he has autographed for me over the years, and I now feel guilty for bothering him for them, although I will treasure them forever.
I thank Jon Winokur for giving me a new perspective on this wonderful man, James Garner. I will reread this book many times I am sure.
November 25, 2011
I have been a James Garner fan since the original Maverick. I also belonged to his fan club for 50 years - until we ALL had to retire, including Jim! - and it was fantastic. Jim is known for being nice to his fans, but we were special to him. If found out you were a member, he treated you almost like family. He was always such fun.
I never expected him to write a memoir because he is such a private person, but when I found out he did I couldn't wait to read it. I was certainly not disappointed! This book will make you laugh out loud - for real - and touch your heart. It's funny, poignant, and totally James Garner.
I don't know how they did it, but Jim and Jon Winokur have made this book read as if Jim were sitting beside you chatting about his life. I can almost hear his unmistakable voice. I loved every moment.
I never expected him to write a memoir because he is such a private person, but when I found out he did I couldn't wait to read it. I was certainly not disappointed! This book will make you laugh out loud - for real - and touch your heart. It's funny, poignant, and totally James Garner.
I don't know how they did it, but Jim and Jon Winokur have made this book read as if Jim were sitting beside you chatting about his life. I can almost hear his unmistakable voice. I loved every moment.
December 31, 2011
I have never been so thrilled to read a book! I have been a big fan of James Garner most of my life. I highly recommend reading this fabulous book. Jon Winokur has done a tremendous job of capturing the true Jim. It is as though you are sitting in the same room, just Jim and you, having a conversation as he speaks from the heart. You find yourself laughing, crying, and you will love every moment of this book. A fantastic read that will touch your soul. I love him even more for staying true to who he is. I thank Jon Winokur for co-writing and giving us all the opportunity to learn about the private life of this man, James Garner. Thanks for a great read and I intend to keep re-reading.
June 30, 2021
June 30, 330am ~~ Good company on a sleepless night. Review asap.
June 30, 3pm ~~ I was too young to see the original Maverick, but I do remember never missing The Rockford Files. And I have more than one favorite movie starring James Garner (Murphy's Romance, Space Cowboys) so when I stumbled across this book at Thriftbooks of course I snapped it up, and I enjoyed it a lot.
Garner tells his life story and shares two sections of pictures. There are chapters on his youth (a rough beginning to life, let me tell you!) his politics, his love of racing (and another about golf, which was the only one I found a bit dull, not being a golf-nut myself) and various other topics.
Whenever I read any actor's life story I always try to find at least one of the movies or television shows they have talked about. I got lucky with Garner. I will get to see Grand Prix (he learned how to drive a Formula One car for this race and did all his own driving in it!) and a movie for television called Promise. I can also watch Up Periscope, a movie made from the book of the same title that Marco and I are currently reading together for our Zapata Reading Club. But I won't watch that until we are done with the book, and I wonder about it anyway, because in the section where he lists and comments on all of his films or television series, he called this 1959 film 'Another piece of crap that Warner Bros stuck me in while I was under contract."
Well, 'crap' or not, I would like to see how a war movie about a submarine was handled back in the days before action became nothing but standing in front of a green screen. (Of course I also wonder how close the makers of the movie were to the book itself.)
This brings me to something I liked about Garner. He was a real guy in a fake town. He hated Hollywood and the system it had in his day. He fought to remain a decent, honest, trustworthy man as an actor and as a person. Sometimes he did gripe about how things have changed from his day (who of us over 60 has not done that?!) and I was quite surprised at the revelations about his terrible temper, but I still ended the book a little bit in love with the man, so learning more about the real self didn't change my opinion of the film persona.
The man has class.
June 30, 3pm ~~ I was too young to see the original Maverick, but I do remember never missing The Rockford Files. And I have more than one favorite movie starring James Garner (Murphy's Romance, Space Cowboys) so when I stumbled across this book at Thriftbooks of course I snapped it up, and I enjoyed it a lot.
Garner tells his life story and shares two sections of pictures. There are chapters on his youth (a rough beginning to life, let me tell you!) his politics, his love of racing (and another about golf, which was the only one I found a bit dull, not being a golf-nut myself) and various other topics.
Whenever I read any actor's life story I always try to find at least one of the movies or television shows they have talked about. I got lucky with Garner. I will get to see Grand Prix (he learned how to drive a Formula One car for this race and did all his own driving in it!) and a movie for television called Promise. I can also watch Up Periscope, a movie made from the book of the same title that Marco and I are currently reading together for our Zapata Reading Club. But I won't watch that until we are done with the book, and I wonder about it anyway, because in the section where he lists and comments on all of his films or television series, he called this 1959 film 'Another piece of crap that Warner Bros stuck me in while I was under contract."
Well, 'crap' or not, I would like to see how a war movie about a submarine was handled back in the days before action became nothing but standing in front of a green screen. (Of course I also wonder how close the makers of the movie were to the book itself.)
This brings me to something I liked about Garner. He was a real guy in a fake town. He hated Hollywood and the system it had in his day. He fought to remain a decent, honest, trustworthy man as an actor and as a person. Sometimes he did gripe about how things have changed from his day (who of us over 60 has not done that?!) and I was quite surprised at the revelations about his terrible temper, but I still ended the book a little bit in love with the man, so learning more about the real self didn't change my opinion of the film persona.
The man has class.
March 31, 2016
I'm a long time fan of James Garner's work. I grew up watching Maverick. While I find I haven't seen nearly all of his movies he has made a couple of my favorites. He's made movies in genres that I don't enjoy, yet I like his films in those genres, usually simply because of the quality of the work.
I think that if you are interested in Hollywood from this era of the late '40s onward you'll find this an interesting book. If you're interested in the early days of TV or the last days of the (so called) studio system you'll probably find the book interesting. Also (of course) if you're interested in James Garner you'll probably find the book interesting.
The book itself addresses the man's life, work, beliefs, interests and personality. For instance I think "we" would have gotten along, however we'd have completely disagreed on many subjects. I was surprised to find that (it seems to me anyway) that Mr. Garner was actually very closed minded about some things (he mentions a certain actor whom he got along with until the person moved to a stance on some things he disagreed with. From then on his attitude toward this person changed. He also seems to have accepted certain negative stereotypes. This only goes to shew we're all human).
For me the most interesting parts of the book had to do with Mr. Garner's body of work and his views on people he worked with. On the other hand the (very) long section of the book on his love of golf and the people he shared this with I found almost profoundly boring...
To each their own i guess, LOL.
So an interesting bio about and interesting "guy" (guy just seemed more appropriate).
I think that if you are interested in Hollywood from this era of the late '40s onward you'll find this an interesting book. If you're interested in the early days of TV or the last days of the (so called) studio system you'll probably find the book interesting. Also (of course) if you're interested in James Garner you'll probably find the book interesting.
The book itself addresses the man's life, work, beliefs, interests and personality. For instance I think "we" would have gotten along, however we'd have completely disagreed on many subjects. I was surprised to find that (it seems to me anyway) that Mr. Garner was actually very closed minded about some things (he mentions a certain actor whom he got along with until the person moved to a stance on some things he disagreed with. From then on his attitude toward this person changed. He also seems to have accepted certain negative stereotypes. This only goes to shew we're all human).
For me the most interesting parts of the book had to do with Mr. Garner's body of work and his views on people he worked with. On the other hand the (very) long section of the book on his love of golf and the people he shared this with I found almost profoundly boring...
To each their own i guess, LOL.
So an interesting bio about and interesting "guy" (guy just seemed more appropriate).
December 27, 2011
This is the incredible story of one of Hollywood's all-time great leading men. James Garner enjoyed a remarkable career spanning six decades. He grew up in Depression-era Oklahoma and triumphed in Hollywood. The story is told in his own words and includes the abuse he suffered at the hands of his stepmother, his military career, his wife and children, and candid insights into his Hollywood life. James Garner is a national monument to survival.
November 24, 2011
Jim has always been one of my favorite actors. Born in 65, I grew up watching "The Rockford Files" every Friday night with my dad. I remember seeing "Support Your Local Sheriff" at the horrible old Metro movie theater in Abilene, TX, when I was pretty small and--in junior high--I got hooked on watching "Maverick" on the late-night reruns.
This book is a fun way to re-live Jim's life and career. Even when he's telling about the painful parts, he manages to do it in a warm way that sometimes makes you laugh and sometimes puts a catch in your throat, but it's always interesting. Jim is willing to admit his faults, too, but somehow they just serve to make him seem more human. Bret Maverick and Jim Rockford weren't James Garner, but there was a lot of Jim in all of those characters. There's a lot of Jim in all of his characters and, after reading the book, you'll see why that is.
One thing that I found especially interesting is that Jim describes himself as a curmudgeon, and it's obvious there are some people he doesn't like, but he never sounds vindictive. It's usually just a simple, "We didn't get along"; no recriminations, no telling about what a lousy SOB this person was. Just a gentlemanly move on to other topics. And the people he liked? He's effusive in their praise. Towards the end of the book when he mentioned that he was unfailingly loyal to his friends, you have no problem believing that.
This book is a fun way to re-live Jim's life and career. Even when he's telling about the painful parts, he manages to do it in a warm way that sometimes makes you laugh and sometimes puts a catch in your throat, but it's always interesting. Jim is willing to admit his faults, too, but somehow they just serve to make him seem more human. Bret Maverick and Jim Rockford weren't James Garner, but there was a lot of Jim in all of those characters. There's a lot of Jim in all of his characters and, after reading the book, you'll see why that is.
One thing that I found especially interesting is that Jim describes himself as a curmudgeon, and it's obvious there are some people he doesn't like, but he never sounds vindictive. It's usually just a simple, "We didn't get along"; no recriminations, no telling about what a lousy SOB this person was. Just a gentlemanly move on to other topics. And the people he liked? He's effusive in their praise. Towards the end of the book when he mentioned that he was unfailingly loyal to his friends, you have no problem believing that.
February 6, 2012
Shortly after finishing Hitch-22 I noticed a blog post praising The Garner Files. Apparently I'm in a memoir-reading mood, because I went for it. And I'm glad I did. Garner's writing isn't to be compared to Hitchens', but it has its own clear style that gets across the man's modesty and competence. He seems to generally avoid saying good things about himself (his appearance, for example, only referred to when others taunt him for being a "pretty boy") and he stresses the workmanlike aspects of his craft (learning lines as laying bricks, one at a time).
I'm only in the fifties, at the beginning of his acting career. Recommended.
I'm only in the fifties, at the beginning of his acting career. Recommended.
November 11, 2012
This book qualifies as a highly recommend. Mr. Garner is all that hoped he was and way beyond. This man's life has been amazing and an example to all about LIVING life and not giving in/up. Though we all feel/do that sometimes, he is a reminder that being here on this planet Earth is the toughest school around. He has been and still is a great teacher and a good student. Read it as soon as you can and then give it to a friend to read too. Thank you Mr. Garner for a wonderful gift in this book and the stories of your life so far.
January 1, 2012
I LOVED THIS BOOK! In fact, it was over too soon!
This man is probably the most underated actor in Hollywood. I was amazed at what a force he was in the entertainment business.
He has obviously always conducted himself like a true professional with a lot of class, as I have never heard a bad word written about him (unlike most of the people in Hollywood)
I was shocked at how he overcame such a violent childhood to become so beloved by the viewing public.
Thank you for sharing your story Mr. Garner! You are the man!
This man is probably the most underated actor in Hollywood. I was amazed at what a force he was in the entertainment business.
He has obviously always conducted himself like a true professional with a lot of class, as I have never heard a bad word written about him (unlike most of the people in Hollywood)
I was shocked at how he overcame such a violent childhood to become so beloved by the viewing public.
Thank you for sharing your story Mr. Garner! You are the man!
December 12, 2011
I read this out of curiosity for my dad. He is a huge James Garner fan. So I thought I would read a little and see if it would be something my dad would like. I could not put the book down. I read it in one sitting. I have always liked JG. The stories about fellow actors were interesting. His childhood in Norman, OK during the depression was unbelievable. His Korean War experience was just amazing. If you are interested in an old school underrated movie star this is the book.
July 22, 2014
Nicely written book showing James Garner was a nice man, with a nice sense of humor. He was also good at standing up for his rights.
December 8, 2011
I enjoyed the book. All I needed was a sunny porch and a glass of lemonade, it would have been like sitting in a rocking chair on the porch listening to Mr. Gardner tell his stories. The co-author did a great job keeping Mr. Garner's voice front and center. There were some difficult things to read towards the beginning of the book, and not everyone will agree with Mr. Garner's political views, but all of the above made him the actor he was, so overall, it was a very good read if you have an interest in this actor.
Also, for the first time in any book I read, the authors had the thought to include statements from people who knew Mr. Garner, and that added some more insight into him and his career. There were some omissions about which I was surprised, but, over all, I enjoyed the book.
Also, for the first time in any book I read, the authors had the thought to include statements from people who knew Mr. Garner, and that added some more insight into him and his career. There were some omissions about which I was surprised, but, over all, I enjoyed the book.
December 19, 2011
In 1985, myself and a friend took our 15 yr old sons to the indy 500. while standing in the infield, Mr Garner walked by on his way to a courtesy car. Since all my children loved every show he ever did, I told my son, there is your chance for an autograph. James Garner was very nice to my son and made his day. He is now 40 yrs old and recovering from wounds he suffered in Afghanistan. I can't wait to tell him James Garner has two purple hearts.
November 23, 2011
I LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS BOOK! What a blast! I loved the part where he commented on all his films.... It was laugh out loud funny.
I learned so much about the film industry that I did not know.
Mr. Garner is brutally honest and that is what I love about this book.
I understand why this is a best seller ...IT IS A MUST READ!
I learned so much about the film industry that I did not know.
Mr. Garner is brutally honest and that is what I love about this book.
I understand why this is a best seller ...IT IS A MUST READ!
December 27, 2011
“The Garner Files, A Memoir” by James Garner and Jon Winokur, published by Simon & Schuster.
Category – Biography/Memoir
I remember Jim Garner but I remember him more as Bret Maverick, Jim Rockford, and Bob Hendley (the scrounger) from “The Great Escape”.
This is a very revealing story of his early life and how he got into show business. As he says in his memoir, he is his own man, and has proved it over and over again. He stuck to his convictions and never wavered, whether it was in his personal life or in his dealings with other actors or studio executives.
Garner is very upfront with who he liked and disliked and why. Some of his candid comments about fellow actors and actresses may shock you. He was not beyond “decking” someone if he deemed it appropriate behavior, or he had it coming.
Garner is a rarity in the Hollywood lifestyle in that he shuns publicity and adoration of the Hollywood set. This fact well may be one of the reasons he has been married to the same woman since 1956. Their marriage even overcame an eighteen month separation that still had them professing their love for each other.
The end of the book has a nice section that lists all of the movies and TV shows he has done and his comments and he is very candid about how he feels about his work. He is not beyond saying that this or that film was a piece of crap and it was only done because he was under contract with the studio. Thankfully for Garner, and us, his good work far overshadows any of his bad works.
If you are into memoirs, and the Hollywood scene, you will find this very entertaining.
Category – Biography/Memoir
I remember Jim Garner but I remember him more as Bret Maverick, Jim Rockford, and Bob Hendley (the scrounger) from “The Great Escape”.
This is a very revealing story of his early life and how he got into show business. As he says in his memoir, he is his own man, and has proved it over and over again. He stuck to his convictions and never wavered, whether it was in his personal life or in his dealings with other actors or studio executives.
Garner is very upfront with who he liked and disliked and why. Some of his candid comments about fellow actors and actresses may shock you. He was not beyond “decking” someone if he deemed it appropriate behavior, or he had it coming.
Garner is a rarity in the Hollywood lifestyle in that he shuns publicity and adoration of the Hollywood set. This fact well may be one of the reasons he has been married to the same woman since 1956. Their marriage even overcame an eighteen month separation that still had them professing their love for each other.
The end of the book has a nice section that lists all of the movies and TV shows he has done and his comments and he is very candid about how he feels about his work. He is not beyond saying that this or that film was a piece of crap and it was only done because he was under contract with the studio. Thankfully for Garner, and us, his good work far overshadows any of his bad works.
If you are into memoirs, and the Hollywood scene, you will find this very entertaining.
April 18, 2012
James Garner is part of the very small group of 1950's actors that had great success both in television and movies (Clint Eastwood is probably the other), and his memoir focuses on his career. His married life was relatively free from drama - he has been married to the same woman for over 50 years, so it makes sense that he spends the vast majority of his story on the TV shows and films he made, who he worked with, and how he challenged studios and networks who attempted to cheat him out of his money. This last area makes him a hero to other actors, since hopefully his victory in exposing the financial dishonesty of the studios will prevent other actors from getting ripped off - Garner always stands up for the little guy, from the crew and stuntmen, to those in the Civil Rights movement in the early 1960's, to women. He does give an honest, frank recounting of his youth, especially the horrible treatment he received from his stepmother; as he says it, if she did now to a child what she did to him they would put her in jail. He also discusses how he got into acting, his time in the Korean War, and his opinion on many famous people. A memoir that film fans and TV fans will enjoy - it would make a great Father's Day gift if you dad liked Maverick or Rockford Files.
December 21, 2011
I've always liked James Garner's laid back, amiable, and slightly grumpy set of characters that he has essayed over the years, and reading this auto-bio was a bit of a random pick. I was only slightly disappointed with the book only because I wanted more insight, or at least anecdotes about the various film and television he worked on. Don't worry, there is some but I always want a bit more. Garner seems like a pretty nice guy, and comes from some unbelievably humble beginnings. My own bias comes into play a bit in this review too since I had to blaze through the golf section. Just not my cup of tea! Recommended for Garner fans, especially if you don't expect too much detail.
December 31, 2011
James Garner has been my favorite actor for many years. When I heard about his book I was so excited. Since buying the book I have read it several times and never get tired of reading it. He will be my favorite actor and person for all time.
Cynthia Smith
Cynthia Smith
May 15, 2012
At the beginning, Garner says he hesitated to write an autobiography because he didn't feel he had much to say. He should have stuck with that thought.
I've been a James Garner fan for as long as I can remember. I hope to continue to enjoy the characters he plays. Unlike him, I will not write off the people I disagree with out of hand.
The writing is not very strong. An interesting problem, given that Garner uses a co-author. Not sure what he did. I guess that could be a scary thought. You can definitely tell when Garner is passionate about something. At least the book has that going for it. Along with plodding lists of who co-starred with him in everything he ever did.
I suppose when you reach your mid-80s, you can say whatever you want. Garner pulls no punches from those he despises, even if he doesn't even know any more about them except that they are conservative. So much for his claim to be a caring person.
I guess you can also select a cover photo that was taken so long ago that those of us who have been fans for decades don't recognize it. I couldn't find a date for it. Perhaps that was a gap in the large print version that I happened to pick up. Perhaps the regular edition also included additional photos. That would have been nice.
Garner's childhood sounds positively awful. Poverty and abuse. I do have to give him credit for not blaming his bad temper on those experiences. He briefly mentions seeing a psychiatrist, but doesn't say whether it was helpful.
I'll also give him credit for staying married to the same woman for 50+ years without straying.
All in all though, this book was a disappointment. I'm sure I'll forget most of it, but I'm afraid I won't be able to forget that overall feeling of disappointment.
I've been a James Garner fan for as long as I can remember. I hope to continue to enjoy the characters he plays. Unlike him, I will not write off the people I disagree with out of hand.
The writing is not very strong. An interesting problem, given that Garner uses a co-author. Not sure what he did. I guess that could be a scary thought. You can definitely tell when Garner is passionate about something. At least the book has that going for it. Along with plodding lists of who co-starred with him in everything he ever did.
I suppose when you reach your mid-80s, you can say whatever you want. Garner pulls no punches from those he despises, even if he doesn't even know any more about them except that they are conservative. So much for his claim to be a caring person.
I guess you can also select a cover photo that was taken so long ago that those of us who have been fans for decades don't recognize it. I couldn't find a date for it. Perhaps that was a gap in the large print version that I happened to pick up. Perhaps the regular edition also included additional photos. That would have been nice.
Garner's childhood sounds positively awful. Poverty and abuse. I do have to give him credit for not blaming his bad temper on those experiences. He briefly mentions seeing a psychiatrist, but doesn't say whether it was helpful.
I'll also give him credit for staying married to the same woman for 50+ years without straying.
All in all though, this book was a disappointment. I'm sure I'll forget most of it, but I'm afraid I won't be able to forget that overall feeling of disappointment.
January 4, 2012
I just finished the book and LOVED it! How wonderful for the world to
have the chance to feel like you are having a conversation with James Garner.
It was heartwarming, funny, introspective, thoughtful, inspiring and so
admirably honest.
He offers a great perspective on the entertainment business, especially because he wasn't afraid to stand up for what he believed in. Everyone loves him, but with this, he has become even more iconic, not only as an actor but as a human being.
have the chance to feel like you are having a conversation with James Garner.
It was heartwarming, funny, introspective, thoughtful, inspiring and so
admirably honest.
He offers a great perspective on the entertainment business, especially because he wasn't afraid to stand up for what he believed in. Everyone loves him, but with this, he has become even more iconic, not only as an actor but as a human being.
March 21, 2012
Even though this book was well written, I didn't care for it too much. My favorite chapter was called "Outtakes" where James Garner's friends write excerpts about their experiences or impressions of him. I think you get a better picture of him from his friends rather than from him. I found I didn't like his attitude about life or his constant campaigning for his political party. It is extremely off-putting to feel that if you disagree with him at all he deems you the enemy.
December 21, 2011
I thought this was better than most autobiographies. There's a lot more of the "human" element. Garner offers no apologies for the way he has lived his life. From a poor childhood, he has risen to become a well-liked star. He has been married to the same woman for many decades and loves his family.
July 30, 2014
Enjoyed it. Largely an anectodal memoir that jumps around in time. Grouped by subject, rather than any sort of chronology. (Though Garner's early years are found at the beginning of the book.) He talks shop, acting, other actors, his movies and TV projects, golf and racing. Clearly he was of the 'Gary Cooper' model of men. Do a good job, don't brag, show up on time and don't waste anybody else's time or efforts. He called himself a curmudgeon, and it's plain to see that he knew himself well. I always enjoyed him as an actor and picked up the book shortly after he passed away. (There was quite a queue for the book. Had to wait for it!) I found it interesting, but not very insightful. Garner didn't like to talk about or dwell on himself, and in this memoir that is plainly felt. It's almost as though he might have been persuaded by others to write the book, with help of a ghostwriter, of course.
I was hoping there'd be more of the actual process of acting, and details about the TV series or some of the movies he made. But he seemed to be a man of few words, most comfortable with a few close friends and family. Not a flamboyant man by any means. He was a lifelong Democrat and makes that very plain. He also offers opinions on some of his fellow actors - and about a few he's less than complimentary. Plain-speaking, in other words.
I don't read too many bios or memoirs, but for fans of Garner, this is a good one.
I was hoping there'd be more of the actual process of acting, and details about the TV series or some of the movies he made. But he seemed to be a man of few words, most comfortable with a few close friends and family. Not a flamboyant man by any means. He was a lifelong Democrat and makes that very plain. He also offers opinions on some of his fellow actors - and about a few he's less than complimentary. Plain-speaking, in other words.
I don't read too many bios or memoirs, but for fans of Garner, this is a good one.
August 30, 2014
This was a very emotional journey for me because James Garner was literally my favorite actor, and even though I never knew him, I felt connected to him in many personal ways. He was an extraordinary man and I truly loved him -- so much so that I named my youngest son James, in part for him.
This is a very warm and personal memoir, full of anecdotes about growing up in Oklahoma in hard times, his service in Korea, and friendships in an unfriendly town. His family stories are lovely as well -- his remarkable long marriage to his beloved Lois, and his love for his daughters. Through his own words and the words of others in his trusted circle whom he has invited to reminisce, the reader truly gets a sense of the character of James Baumgarner, who refused to buy into the meanness and bs of the machine in Hollywood and insisted on living on his own terms, by his own code.
He is often called a man's man, but I think he was a woman's man -- certainly well-loved by his female fans -- a cerebral hero, a man at once gentle and tough, resolute, loyal, and righteous. I am so grateful to have all of my Rockford Files to visit, and I love his films. But I will miss Jim Garner here on earth. He was one of a kind.
This is a very warm and personal memoir, full of anecdotes about growing up in Oklahoma in hard times, his service in Korea, and friendships in an unfriendly town. His family stories are lovely as well -- his remarkable long marriage to his beloved Lois, and his love for his daughters. Through his own words and the words of others in his trusted circle whom he has invited to reminisce, the reader truly gets a sense of the character of James Baumgarner, who refused to buy into the meanness and bs of the machine in Hollywood and insisted on living on his own terms, by his own code.
He is often called a man's man, but I think he was a woman's man -- certainly well-loved by his female fans -- a cerebral hero, a man at once gentle and tough, resolute, loyal, and righteous. I am so grateful to have all of my Rockford Files to visit, and I love his films. But I will miss Jim Garner here on earth. He was one of a kind.
January 13, 2012
I love James Garner,but I was really disappointed in the scope of this memoir. It is so thin in substance that it is almost non-existent. Several times I was embarrassed reading it because it was so poorly structured and composed. I understand that Garner is not a writer himself,but unfortunately I don't think that his collaborator is very skilled at all. From what I read, I feel like this memoir is still a rough copy of what could have been an effective,interesting and insightful autobiography. It never got the chance--and that's too bad. I would not recommend it.
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