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Alec Guinness begins his most recent memoir, a sort of sequel to his bestselling My Name Escapes Me, with what he calls an apology for a "ramshackle book": "It states it is a Journal and yet it doesn't quite aspire to that and it isn't a diary. Not many dates are to be found in it." What is in it are as charming a collection of memories, readings, observations, and anecdotes as could be imagined from an actor whose genius for self-effacement is legendary. Now in his 85th year, the celebrated Sir Alec has made a major contribution to a minor but much-loved literary form, the notebooks of an English gentleman. (It's no surprise to learn in these pages that Samuel Butler, author of The Way of All Flesh and his own published Notebooks, is one of Guinness's favorite authors.) Considering his age and virtual retirement, Guinness's life is an astonishingly active and full one, and for all the reminiscing, much of A Positively Final Appearance is taken up in describing his present-day doings with his beloved wife Merula (married 61 years), their dogs, and the occasional forays they make to visit friends and family. There are trips farther afield as well, to a spa in Baden-Baden and to films and theater, including a hilarious attempt to see the controversial West End hit Shopping and F***ing (with Guinness suggesting several substitutes for the supplied asterisks). His omnivorous reading is simply staggering, and a lifelong love affair with Shakespeare is evidenced not only by his memories of favorite performances but also his readings of scenes from the Bard, which reveal an imaginative scholarship infused with a lifetime's theatrical experience.
One of the strangest paradoxes of this superb actor (and equally fluent prose stylist) is that he seems destined to be remembered primarily for his becloaked performance in the original Star Wars trilogy as Obi-Wan Kenobi. There's a priceless story included about Guinness's encounter with a child who claimed to have seen the first film over 100 times, and the request he made of the boy: "Do you think you could promise never to see Star Wars again?" The result of this request, along with much else in this entirely captivating memoir, will amuse and delight. --John Longenbaugh
Book Description
A worthy successor to the beloved actor's earlier diary--"splendidly idiosyncratic . . . vivid . . . accomplished . . . pungently human" (John Simon)--that was a bestselling New York Times Notable Book of the Year
Alec Guinness's 1995-1996 diary, My Name Escapes Me, was published to a standing critical ovation. People magazine loved its "understated elegance." Michiko Kakutani, in The New York Times, raved: "Utterly delightful. . . . One hopes . . . we may soon be treated to another installment." Here it is, brimming with further extemporaneous opinions and careful reflections from the powerful intelligence and ironically observant eye that made Guinness such a fine and versatile actor.
In A Positively Final Appearance, written from the summer of 1996 through 1998, Guinness--reinvigorated by a successful cataract operation--observes Britain in the tumultuous times of Princess Diana's death and Tony Blair's election as prime minister. Living a quintessentially English country life with his painter wife, he re-reads Dickens and Patrick O'Brian, experiments with Chinese cooking, marvels at the Hale-Bopp comet, and enjoys Baz Luhrmann's film William Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet--while reflecting ruefully that the worst Romeo ever was "none other than me." These dispatches (acerbic or affectionate) on matters local, national, and cultural come from one of whom Vanity Fair recently remarked: "At 83, the Force is still with him."
Customer Reviews:
A wonderful book.......2004-10-20
I picked up this book because I like Alec Guinness' work in "Lawrence of Arabia" and his other David Lean films (not because of "Star Wars" which I can take or leave). To be honest, I was worried it might be kind of boring.
Well, it was not boring -- it was delightful. The man was full of many profound observations about life that he communicated by writing about everyday things such as the birds in his yard or the weather. His vivid memories of his stage career and the people he knew were vastly entertaining. I was surprised to find him to be a humble, not-too-well-off everyday kind of man, not some fabulously rich egomaniac as I had supposed him to be.
Even though I could not be more different from him politically, I still enjoyed reading his views on politics. It was like talking to a dapper, well-bred older gentleman you bumped into on the street. His writing was assertive, yet polite and genteel.
If you miss reading this book, you've missed a simple pleasure that will make you smile. It's worth buying!
The swansong of a quiet giant.......2001-10-17
As previously said, this is a very well and beautifully writen errr... memoir. The cover tells you the whole story of what to expect inside. At first glance Alec dancing appears as a comical figure almost, but as you look closer you can see he is in some sort of agony. And as the book moves on, it is hard for him to not show his melancholy.
Despite being a bit of a emotional downer, this is still a very worthwhile read for any of his fans.
More than a journal.......2001-06-23
The late Sir Alec Guinness was a lovely writer, and with this, his final memoir, he improved vastly over his previous gift to us, MY NAME ESCAPES ME. Whereas the latter was strictly a selection from his diary, with this Guinness moves beautifully from journalistic descriptions of day-to-day events (from eye surgery to walks with his wife, Merula, to the indignities of moving slowly in an ever fast-paced and impolite world) and wry reflections on current events to anecdotes spanning his entire career in theatre and film. Each chapter is arranged by a theme, mostly seasonal, but they meander charmingly.
Those interested in his encounter with the church and his beginnings as an artist should find his autobiography, BLESSINGS IN DISGUISE. Those who might want reflections on STAR WARS will be disappointed. When one gentleman asked Guinness for an autograph from Ben Kenobi immediately after mass, Guinness admonished him, "Not in front of the parishioners!" and disappeared as nimbly as a young Jedi.
A Positively Marvelous Book.......2000-06-19
Alec Guinness is undeniably one of the most gifted actors of our times, and now, with his offering of "A Positively Final Appearance," we get to know something of the man behind the mask. This journal, kept between the summer of `96, and 1998, is chock full of insightful musings, reminiscences and anecdotes that are a delight. He shares his love of the theater, discussing many of the plays he attended during this period, and gives comments on recent movies, as well. An avid reader, he talks enthusiastically of favorite authors and books; his love of literature is unmistakable. The stage is his first love, however, and he speaks fondly, and frankly, of many of the plays he's done, and of his experiences with many of the actors and directors with whom he has had the privilege of working. He invites you into his private life, discussing the love of his life, Merula, and discoursing on their life at home, as well as their many travels. You learn what the greatest regret of his life is, who some of the people are he admires most, and a few of whom he could do without. He explains his negative attitude toward the "Star Wars" phenomenon, and addresses many of the events, large and small, that have in some way affected his life, and helped mold his perspectives. His concern over world events and the human condition is poignantly evident. Guinness writes so fluently, you can almost hear that distinct, familiar voice; you seem to be listening, rather than reading. There is a dignity and charm to his words that reveal, to some degree, the man behind them. That he values his privacy is apparent, and it becomes very clear that he is not the most accessible person, yet without any rancor; he holds his fans in high esteem, but there is a sincere humility to the man, who simply doesn't feel worthy of all the fuss. In a world seemingly rife with crass sensationalism and indifference, "A Positively Final Appearance" is like a tonic to the soul; it is so refreshing to discover that somewhere elegance and refinement still exist. My positively, final word on this book is that it is a joy, and should not be missed.
A great man.......2000-02-26
The journal of an extraordinary gentleman, one of the greatest actors ever to grace stage or screen. His reflections on his career are moving and perceptive, totally lacking in self-aggrandisement. His thoughts on the whole "Star Wars" phenomenon are particularly witty but smack of the desperation of being hounded by that film's fans. It's tragic that this great man may only be remembered by modern generations for his appearance in that opus instead of for his work in the Ealing comedies, "The Bridge on the River Kwai", his lengthy stage career and his magnificent turn on TV as George Smiley.
Average customer rating:
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A Positively Final Appearance: A Journal, 1996-1998
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Penguin Audiobooks
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio Cassette
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ASIN: 0141801875
Release Date: 1999-01-01 |
Book Description
This one-of-a-kind how-to-draw book makes learning to draw favorite film characters from the most popular Disney/Pixar animated feature films a true delight! The book features characters from Disney/Pixar hits including Toy Story; Monsters, Inc.; A Bug's Life; Finding Nemo; and The Incredibles.
Simple step-by-step instructions and easy-to-follow illustrations walk would-be artists through the entire drawing process, from simple sketches to colorful character renderings. Let
Learn to Draw Your Favorite Disney/Pixar Characters show you how fun drawing can be!
Customer Reviews:
Great for young ones who love to draw..........2007-01-11
Easy to follow and learn...my 7 year old loves it..she keeps it in the car with drawing paper and colored pencils..
Customer Reviews:
fond memories.......2007-08-15
This was the first, and best, cookbook my mother bought me. I still have my original copy and use it every once in a while. It is the BEST cookbook to use when teaching children how to cook. It's full of useful information for the aspiring cook.
true classic!.......2007-08-12
I am 36 years old and I still have this book. My parents got it for me when we went to the Magic Kingdom in the 70's. It is a treasure I will keep always and share with my nieces and nephew. I made the big bad wolfs brownies a lot. I still look at it and use it when I make hard boiled eggs; I can never remember how to make them. I love the memories this book brings to me. I my a true fan of all things Disney. A must have for all fans of the Mouse!!!
Still have it from over a decade ago..........2006-05-11
I received this book as a child. The idea was that mom and I could spend time in the kitchen together. Honestly, over a decade later as a college student, I still have it... And I've been known to pull it out on occasion. ;) It gives kitchen safety tips and shows kitchen utinsels.
There are excellent recipes, in the typical categories you see in cookbooks (appetizers, main dishes, desserts, etc). They all have an appeal to kids. They're not all necessarily things that a parent wouldn't know how to make (like grilled cheese), but the idea is to help kids learn, so that's okay in my book. You didn't really expect a souffle recipe, did you? :)
The Disney theme makes it all the more fun! Some recipes include spaghetti (Lady and the Tramp's, of course!), custard, various cupcakes (for the 7 Dwarves), and more.
I have a lot of great memories of sharing this book with my mom and learning about cooking, and I believe that many other people could make these kinds of memories, too. Check it out!
Walt Disney's Mickey Mouse Cookbook: Favorite Recipes from M.......2002-05-26
This is a great cookbook that I had when I was younger. It was so interesting to see what my favorite disney cartoons loved to eat.
Recipes for all ages with great illustrations.......1998-11-20
Basic recipes with fun Disney characters fill this great cookbook. From Winnie the Pooh French Toast to Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee's Banana Split, this cookbook is great for kids who have 3-4 grade level reading ability. The recipes are great for adults as well.
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Disney Movie Favorites
Bennett
Manufacturer: Hal Leonard Publishing Corporation
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
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ASIN: 0793532620 |
Book Description
Students will love playing these 16 songs from the Disney favorites Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid. Songs include: Beauty and the Beast * Friend like Me * Kiss the Girl * Something There * Under the Sea * A Whole New World * and more.
Book Description
This all-inclusive kit combines simple, step-by-step instruction for drawing a range of Disney/Pixar characters with a selection of colorful drawing tools. The kit features a 32-page project book and all the tools needed to bring the characters to life with color!
Kit includes drawing pencil, eraser, sharpener, 5 fine-line markers, 5 jumbo markers, double-sided colored pencils, refrigerator magnet, 72 stickers, blank "draw your own" storybook, drawing pad
Product Description
From the sound of children's voices singing It's a Small World, to the lighthearted refrain of Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah echoing through Splash Mountain, music brings its own memorable magic to every corner of the Disney theme parks. Now, you can experience the musical magic of Disneyland, Walt Disney World, and EPCOT Center with A Souvenir Disney Songbook. Taking you on a musical tour of the parks, this songbook features 25 favorite songs and full-color photos of 18 Disney theme park attractions. Songs include: It's a Small World The Tiki Tiki Tiki Room Yo Ho (A Pirate's Life for Me) Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah The Best Time of Your Life Tomorrow's Child New World Bound Veggie Veggie Fruit Fruit and more. Boogie Woogie Bakery Boy, The Toast Of The Town Canada (You're A Lifetime Journey) Energy (You Make The World Go 'Round) Ev'rybody Has A Laughing Place Golden Dream Grim Grinning Ghosts It's A Small World It's Fun To Be Free Listen To The Land Magic Journeys Main Street Electrical Parade Makin' Memories New Horizons New World Bound One Little Spark The Best Time Of Your Life The Great Outdoors The Tiki Tiki Tiki Room There's A Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow Tomorrow's Child Universe Of Energy Veggie Veggie Fruit Fruit We've Come So Far Yo Ho (A Pirate's Life For Me) Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah
Customer Reviews:
An excellent book for any Disney enthusiast!.......2003-08-03
What makes this book a great find is that it includes many songs for rides that have either been refurbished or altogether removed from the Walt Disney World Resort (ie - Spaceship Earth's "Tomorrow's Child" and Kitchen Kabaret's "Veggie Veggie Fruit Fruit") Also, one of my favorite songs, "Golden Dream" from Epcot's American Adventure is also included! The songs are fairly simple to play (guitar chords are written in) for any experience level. I'm so glad I found this book and added it to my collection!
Singing Robots.......2001-10-19
What makes this collection nice, is that it includes one song I haven't seen in the other Disney collections, "There's a great big beautiful tomorrow, shining at the end of every day" (what a fabulous lie) which robots used to sing in this great ride that used to be at Disneyland called, the "Carousel of Progress." It's fun to look at the lyrics for Pirates of the Carribean, which advocate kidnapping and ravaging. I also marvel at the vocabulary and interesting imagry used to write "Grimm Grinning Ghosts." The Shermann Brothers could definitely not have written that one... You also get the lyrics the birds used to sing in the Tikki Room. (Has anyone noticed that they've seriously shortened the songs in that ride? All those brightly plumed harmonizers used to warble a lot longer than they do now...)
Book Description
Glass slippers, special treasures, and great friends are just a few of a princess’s favorite things. And when they’re covered in shimmering and sparkling fabric, these things are even more special! This dynamic board book has shiny surprises on the cover and on every page.
Book Description
Students will love playing these 16 songs from the Disney favorites Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid. Songs include: Beauty and the Beast * Friend like Me * Kiss the Girl * Something There * Under the Sea * A Whole New World * and more.
Book Description
Royally funny letters written to and from your favorite Disney Princesses! Once upon a time, in lands far away Several princesses started their day. On this beautiful morning, the sky was bright blue. The sun was shining, the birds singing, too. And just when they thought their day couldn't get better, What a coincidence-they each got a letter! The most popular Disney Princesses come to life in this fun, interactive book featuring mail written to and from Cinderella, Snow White, Ariel, Jasmine, and Belle! With colorful, vibrant illustrations, six letters to pull out and read, and an amusing rhyming text (written by noted children's book author and princess expert Ivana Tiara), Dear Princess is sure to receive your stamp of approval!
Customer Reviews:
Entertaining.......2006-02-10
My two girls (5 and 23 months) both enjoy this book, and it is one of their favorite bedtime choices. I like the setup of the book (each princess gets a letter that you can physically pull out of the "envelope" and then the next page tells you how she responded to that letter. The lessons it teaches aren't the most appealing. For example, Belle gets a letter from the library stating she's had numerous books overdue, but one in particular about table manners for wild beasts is 5 years overdue. Belle sends back payment for the book, explaining her husband (The Beast) ate it. It states Belle had been dreading this letter, so she fully knew she owed the library for the book but did nothing. I don't think it's a good reflection on a princess to have so many overdue books either. There's also a nitnoid point with Snow White's letter. When the dwarfs invite her to their cottage for her birthday party, they request she come early to help clean and to bring some decorations and a cake. She in turn invites the dwarfs to the castle for the party and writes, "the best part of all is there's no work for me!" She sounds self-centered (it's okay as long as the servants do the work?). Overall, the letters are cute and funny. It would have been fabulous if the stories included some better lessons.
a good change from disney princess fare.......2005-11-21
This book features letters to and from the disney princesses concerning their lives after they live happily ever after. It's a good way to add some dimension and humanity to the princesses that 4 year old girls like mine are so obsessed with. And having the cards and letters come out of envelopes in the book is really appealing.
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My Name Escapes Me
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Alec Guinness: The Authorised Biography
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Alec Guinness: A Life
