The Boys by Ron and Clint Howard - ★★★★

[John]

In this memoir's acknowledgements, actor, director, and producer Ron Howard attributes his wife's love, support, and wisdom for much of his success. I believe the same personality traits can be said for Ron and Clint Howard's parents who enabled them to navigate life's obstacles which seem to decimate so many Hollywood families.

Both Ron and Clint share pages in this book taking turns narrating their memories growing up in show business and being children of acting parents.

Ron Howard's acting life began at four years of age and the book describe his memories of acting in Andy of Mayberry as the iconic Opie Taylor and his roles in American Grafitti and Happy Days. As Ron grew up in show business, he became increasingly interested in directing, which has been the primary focus of his adult years with such films as Apollo 13 and A Beauiful Mind.

Clint Howard's experience was similar as his older brother's with shows such as Gentle Ben. He spends some of his turn in this book detailing his struggles with addiction as an adolescent and young adult. When acting calls dried up as he became older, which is a problem with many child actors, he thought about a career in journalism. However, he did find a niche as a character actor in 200+ movies and television shows.

Besides their parents, both "boys" relayed advice given be many of the Hollywood notables in further their careers, including Andy Griffin, Dennis Weaver, John Wayne, and Henry Fonda.

I was particularly drawn to this memoir having grown up through early television with Ron and Clint Howard. I enjoyed gaining a glimpse behind the scenes of the Howard family and of the film industry.

[Sue]

Great review - I really enjoyed this one too.

I listened to the audio where the two brothers alternated narrating their parts.

I was also really pleased to have Clint's roles pointed out - and I definitely recall him from several of his roles. He has a very distinctive look.

[Meli]

I love the Howard brothers! I think I will need to read this. Ron is a great narrator so if he narrates the audio I might check that out.

Glad you enjoyed this one!

[John]

If I'm correct, Ron and Clint both narrates their portions of the book.

[Meli]

Awesome!

[Booknblues]

Thanks for the review. It piqued my interested and I noticed it on kindle unlimited.