Spirit of Bob Hope - One Hundred Years -- One Million Laughs (Paperback, 100 birthday ed)

This book traces the real Bob Hope from his early days performing in Cleveland, Ohio, and New York, to his world-wide fame earned in radio, television and films, as well as his unselfish performances all over the world for the USO during World War II right through Desert Storm, documented through the eyes of many of his friends and fellow performers, as well as Bob's own comments as told to Grudens during personal interviews, revealing a touching portrait of a wonderful man. How many of you were unaware that Bob Hope, whose real name is Leslie Town Hope was born in England; a professional boxer; a very good dancer and singer who introduced many standard songs; a full-fledged travelling vaudeville actor; a prominent Broadway star, and a radio pioneer and television icon? The book accurately encapsulates his story incorporating over 100 photos punctuating at each stage of his life. Here you will find personal testimonials and tributes in their own words from legendary actress Jane Russell, singer Connie Haines, actress Rhonda Fleming, M*A*S*H creator Larry Gelbart, vocalist Jerry Vale, President's Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan, golfers Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, singers Tony Bennett, Frances Langford, Margaret Whiting, Rosemary Clooney, Doris Day, and Frankie Laine, and all recent Presidents. With a loving foreword by co-star Jane Russell, this book provides a perfect personal portrait of America's best loved comedian and the World's most famous citizen. This is the book Bob Hope fans all over the world have been waiting for.