Inside Gilligan's Island: From Creation to Syndication

by Sherwood Schwartz

Photographs and text present the "Gilligan's Island" television program, discussing scripting, casting, production, and reruns. Appendix lists plots, writers, and directors for each episode.

Genres: Nonfiction, Comedy, Tv

342 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 1988

Reviews

[Tim Ristow · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love Sherwood Schwartz's style of writing. It has a certain folksy charm to it in the way he relates stories of people, from TV executives to cast, crew and even his wife. Just like his shows, Gilligan's Island among them, he is focused on people, not picturesque descriptions or wading in a sea of nostalgia.

As I got further into the book I was, initially, somewhat disappointed that this wasn't more of a behind the scenes during the production of the episodes themselves. There is some of that, including a chapter dedicated to life on the set. But it was relatively brief.

However, I knew that this wasn't Gilligan's Island from a cast member's perspective or even that of a director. Schwartz was a TV producer and often spent much time dealing with network and studio executives and that's a large part of what his story involves. Don't let that change your mind about giving this book a read. Some of the executives he describes are so off the wall they almost seem like caricatures or stereotypes, rather than real people. Such is the "reality" of Hollywood.

As I kept reading I couldn't put the book down, reading the whole thing in a weekend. Its a fascinating peek behind the curtain of producing a TV series in the 60's. Times have changed and, as Schwartz opines in later chapters, Gilligan's Island wouldn't get produced in today's world (this book was written and published in 1994). In many ways, it was lucky to get produced even back in the '60's!

Schwartz often starts chapters with dialogue or a conversation in progress to hook the reader. At first it seems a little repetitive but as I read I started to really like that technique. It got you into the conversations quicker rather than having a lead-in to each meeting he would have.

Overall, its a fun, quick read. If you enjoyed Gilligan's Island or are interested in learning about the challenges of producing a TV show in the 1960's this is a great little book to spend your time between its pages.

[WhatShouldIRead · Rating 5 out of 5]

I grew up watching Gilligan's Island and really liked it as a kid. Fast forward, I still really like the show. I think these episodes are the best stress reduction therapy going.

So, to finally read how the show came about, how it was sold to a network and how all the actors were hired was just the cherry on top. If you think having a good idea and getting it on air simply because it is a good idea is the way it goes, you are very wrong. Considering all the hoops Sherwood Schwartz had to jump through, along with the timing of the presentation (or fate, if that's what you believe), I'm surprised this show made it on-air at all. Not only did the guy in charge of the network NOT like it, the critics consistently ripped it apart from being completely unreal and silly.

Well, if you took this show in a literal sense, then yes those points are valid. However, I think these people neglected to remember this was a COMEDY. And one of those feel-good comedies at that, not like those today whose punch line is usually a disparaging remark at the cost of one of its characters.

Even though this show was constantly shuffled around on the schedule, it consistently made top numbers in viewing. So, you ask, if this show was so good, why did it only last 3 seasons?

Well, I'll tell you. Read the book...! ;)

[Greg · Rating 4 out of 5]

I very much enjoyed Sherwood Schwartz's stories about this TV show. (And loved the show as a kid, and still watch it whenever it appears in syndication. Why, I even have the t-shirt from the musical!)

[Kristjan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book: ***
Performance: ***

A quick view behind the making of a childhood favorite.

I have some very fond memories of growing up watching reruns of Gilligan’s Island, so I was very much interested in how it was created … presuming that a peak at the personalities and stars that were involved. This was not that book. This book was primarily about the challenges encountered in the production and the struggles to keep it going. In others words … it was all about the suits. Over the years, I have seen many of my favorite TV shows disappear, sometime even at the height of their popularity, so while the book was not as expected, it was very interesting none the less … and I was completely surprised at difficult it all had turned out to be … from getting the initial idea accepted (with the benefit of hindsight it seems like the execs should have known it was be a hit) to fending off competing visions that would have completely destroyed the concept. I was particularly interested in how the same footage for the pilot was edited/recut (rather surreptitiously) to make a completely different show that allowed the original concept to prove itself (something about camels being designed by committee). So over all, I thought it was a good book, if a tad longer than it needed to be … and it scores high for gaining extra nostalgia points (s +1 over all).

I was given this free advance review/listener copy (ARC) audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

#InsideGilligansIsland #FreeAudiobkFacebkGrp

[Goddess of Chaos · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Every week Gilligan manages to snatch defeat from the very jaws of victory.”

This is an incredible book... whether you want to learn about the rollercoaster ride that is an idea's journey from concept to tv screen as a broadcast show, to get a glimpse of how decisions are made in the balance between creators, networks and those providing funds, or just want to read some behind the scenes stories about a tv show that multiple generations are familiar with, this book has something to offer.

It talks about filming the pilot in Hawaii, and later building the lagoon in a stage in Los Angeles (rewatch some of those episodes, remember the one man submarine coming in to the lagoon? The motor boat? Space pod?).

One of my favorite parts is the appendix, which at first glance looks like an episode guide, but really shines when you realize the Theme for each episode is noted. Each episode was ABOUT something, not necessarily teaching something, though Sherwood Schwartz is very upfront that he wanted a show that highlighted the need to work together and the strength that comes from working together.

I came out of this book with a deeper appreciation for a show I hadn't watched in years... and a desire to sit right back and hear a tale about a three hour tour next time it reruns on local tv.

[Corbin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'll keep it brief: Amid the tangle of 1960s television network bureaucracy, Sherwood Schwartz delivers the upbringing of Gilligan's Island with a wit and attitude that I enjoyed reading. This wasn't so much a production history of the show with trivia or some timeline season to season, but mostly the origins of the pilot, and Schwartz's fight to provide the show reasons to exist in the faces of doubtful executives. It goes to show that even in the entertainment industry, good ideas are often swept aside. And while Schwartz's fight for the show is admirable and was the most gripping part of the book, to see it all end the way it did was somewhat disheartening. The book wasn't quite what I expected, and I do think Schwartz spends too much time towards the end absolutely bathing in the glory of having made a cult classic to the point where it became rather cringe and obnoxious. He speaks of the show with reverence, of course, and it was nice to hear that it seemed to be a good time for almost everyone involved, but to hear him near endlessly shove in my face how people love him and his show made me a little queasy. Overall, a fine little history of the show's origins and a rather interesting look at the middle days of television studio politicking and backstabbing.

[Barb Steinbaugh · Rating 4 out of 5]

There was a lot to learn in this series recap by the legendary creator, Sherwood Schwartz. His butcher paper bible of the seven castaways and their character traits sounds like something that belongs in a museum. The struggles to find the right actors to play the skipper, the professor, Ginger and Mary Ann are enlightening. The expense to produce the pilot episode in Hawaii sounds like it was an immense challenge. And the reedit of that pilot episode by Schwartz himself during the last possible minute to save the show from TV oblivion is the thing of legend. The author's predictable, old-time humor is charming and occasionally wince-inducing. He also spends the last two chapters discussing formulas for successful sitcoms that have little, if anything to do with Gilligan's Island. Nonetheless, this is a fun and informative read that fans of the show will appreciate reading.

[fred jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. The story of the battles of Producer and creator Sherwood Schwartz to bring Gilligan's Island to the TV screens of the world told with style and wit. His battles with TV executives and networks, budgets and casting, locations and logistics. The writing is wonderful and brings what could have been a dry topic to a life of its own, lovely anecdotes and stories and Mike Hennessy's narration really lifted it to a new level, i forgot sometimes it was not Sherwood narrating his book. Written before satellite and streaming to shows the power the big three networks held over viewing in America and how your show lived or died at their whim. I highly recommend this even to someone who has never seem an episode.

[April Feehan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although this book was written back in 1988, it remains a revealing read on the story behind one of television's great early sitcoms. We've all seen the finished product in endless reruns over many decades. This here is the struggling story on how Gilligan found it's way to the small screen despite more obstacles than an episode of Battle Of The Network Stars. We get the inside scoop on how the seven castaways were hired, which ones loved/hated their roles, and how the many guest stars arrived on the island. It's a bit choppy and primitive with the writing in places, though the story shines through.

[Dave · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very detailed history of the TV show from conception to, and through, production. What a challenge it was for Schwartz to get that show even made and then to keep it on the air. The “Big Wig” executives were the problem. Also the critics did not like the show at all. BUT the audience loved it. Even in spite of its popularity the execs where often on Schwartz’s case.

This is also an excellent history of TV production and programming from the 1950-1980’s. And there are lots of photos and funny moments in Schwartz’s retelling.

[Dan Packard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gilligan

Very interesting and entertaining book about the creation and production of Gilligan's Island, from the creator and producer of the show. The ending where he talks about the then current state of television is quite dated but not enough to detract from the book as a whole. Highly recommended.

[Marie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I abandoned this book because by page 196 it was so boring that I just couldn’t read it anymore. The end of the book has blot synopsis for each of the 98 episodes and all the Gilligans Island movies which is worth a look. Sherwoods, Brady Brady Brady books was so much better!

[Little T. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoyed going through this a lot

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I worked for a theater that was working with Sherwood Schwartz so he signed my copy. He was a pleasure : )

[Jon Nielson · Rating 1 out of 5]

He's a comedy writer, but not a book writer.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must for any fan

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just a fun read and a total blast from the past.

[Starr Wilde · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the behind the scenes

Loved this peek behind the scenes...Just wish we could get the last 2 specials on dvd...also check out his Brady Bunch book...

[Herm Stippich · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating look at how a hit show almost wasn’t - many times! It’s a miracle “Gilligan’s Island” made the air in the form its creator, Sherwood Schwartz intended. A Jewish comedy writer vs the stuffed shirts at CBS. Hilarious many times and a little preachy in a few instances. Could have included more stories from the episodes themselves. Still, a must for any “Gilligan’s Island” aficionados.

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inside Gilligan's Island: from Creation to Syndication
Sherwood Schwartz
Mcfarland & Company, Inc.
1988 (2011 reprint)

A Librarything Early Reviewer book.
Wow! It has been 47 years since Gilligan's Island premiered, and not only did I read a book about it, but I really enjoyed it. Mr. Schwartz, the creator of the show, wonderfully tells the story of Gilligan's Island; from the first idea, to pitching the show to the studio, to filming, to cancellation, and beyond. Most of the chapters are humorous vignettes that captured the attention of this reader. Towards the end of the memoir, Mr. Schwartz does drift off topic and discusses modern television (1988) and the dangers of sex and violence. This section seems not to belong with the rest of the memoir and makes him sound like a cranky old man talking about "those crazy kids of today".

4 stars. The writing is compelling and the stories are fun. If you enjoyed Gilligan's Island, you'll love this behind the scenes look at the show.

[Jeff · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even though the book is 20+ years old now (I'm guessing they reissued it since creator Sherwood Schwartz passed away a few months ago), it's still thought provoking and filled with hilarious anecdotes about the creative process and filming of "Gilligan's Island."

The references to the "current" [1980's] TV landscape notwithstanding, Schwartz's thoughts on the entire media landscape can still hold some truth today (i.e. the lack of "family" comedies, and a greater emphasis on sex, violence, etc). Combine that with a synopsis of every episode and special produced, plus some neat photographs, and the book was a thoroughly enjoyable read. Classic TV buffs, even those who didn't know or care for the show, will enjoy it.

Oh, and to answer the age-old question, I'll take Mary Ann over Ginger any day of the week.

[Christopher Obert · Rating 3 out of 5]

Gilligan’s Island is one of my all time favorite TV shows. I found the actors to be perfectly cast and the show to be extremely funny. This book written by Sherwood Schwartz is a reprint of the original book published in 1988. The book’s main focus is how the show was created, submitted to the networks and basically how the whole process works. I found the book very interesting and I learned a lot about the behind the scenes of a TV show. However, I was hoping for more stories on the cast than were actually in the book. Still I found the stories that were told fun and informative. My main disappointed was that the book was not updated to the present time. I feel that publishers missed the opportunity to make this old book better.

[Sean · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you're a fan of Gilligan's Island or interested in the how a TV show is made (albeit in the 60s) this book is a great read. Sherwood Schwartz tells great stories of the trials and tribulations to bring this show to TV. Through luck and perseverance it made it to air and practically on a whim it was cancelled, despite always winning its time slot and becoming a worldwide success.

The book also covers and the animated and movie projects after the show's run and ends with appendices describing each episode, include each one's theme (example: "Near misses don't count; the result does").

[W. Frazier · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book shies away from warm fuzzy nostalgia and instead gives a sharp inside look at the business of television production. Schwartz gives a blow-by-blow account of his efforts to get Gilligan's Island on the air, in all of its permutations. It's a great reference tool for anyone looking to study the inside workings of Hollywood. Written in 1988, the book offers some interesting perspectives. The episode synopses at the end of the book are fun reminders for those who followed the original series.

[Peter J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I find behind the scenes books interesting as long as they aren't too promotional. Inside Gilligan's Island is among the best I have ever read. Schwartz keeps you interested and gives you a good number of stories, facts and struggles about making the TV show (which remains one of the best guilty pleasures ever broadcast). It is a pity his book on the Brady Bunch, co-written with his Son, failed to live up to the standard he set by himself with this one.

[Maeleah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book! If you are looking for a history of how Gilligan's Island was created, read this book. Absolutely fascinating and written with some funny anecdotes. Includes black and white and some color photos. Recommend watching the DVDs of the episodes. Great humor in the "old fashioned" way, just plain humor that will get you laughing.

[Alona Perlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was very impressed with this book. It was very interesting to read about the makings of Gilligan's island. Not only does Sherwood discuss the show's creation, he also gives you an insight into the world of television, ratings and TV trends!

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This focusses on the making of Gilligan's Island, rather than gossip about what happened on set. It is amazing that people did not see its potential and it almost did not get made.

It was written in, I think, 1988 so it feels like it is stuck in time a bit. It didn't bother me any, though.

[Jonathan Frankel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun little book on the makings and origins of Gilligan's Island as well as subsequent stories on its syndication and movies. Since I grew up with the "repeats", I found it very interesting in how many issues Schwartz ran into to get it on the air.

[Amber Leach · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such an interesting book. I've never thought about or realized just what all it took to go from brain to screen. Very entertaining and informative. Loved it!