Product Description
Paul Newman, the Oscar-winning actor with the legendary blue eyes, achieved superstar status by playing charismatic renegades, broken heroes, and winsome antiheroes in such revered films as The Hustler, Cool Hand Luke, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Verdict, The Color of Money, and Nobody’s Fool. But Newman was also an oddity in Hollywood: the rare box-office titan who cared about the craft of acting, the sexy leading man known for the staying power of his marriage, and the humble celebrity who made philanthropy his calling card long before it was cool.

The son of a successful entrepreneur, Newman grew up in a prosperous Cleveland suburb. Despite fears that he would fail to live up to his father’s expectations, Newman bypassed the family sporting goods business to pursue an acting career. After struggling as a theater and television actor, Newman saw his star rise in a tragic twist of fate, landing the role of boxer Rocky Graziano in Somebody Up There Likes Me when James Dean was killed in a car accident. Though he would joke about instances of “Newman’s luck” throughout his career, he refused to coast on his stunning boyish looks and impish charm. Part of the original Actors Studio generation, Newman demanded a high level of rigor and clarity from every project. The artistic battles that nearly derailed his early movie career would pay off handsomely at the box office and earn him critical acclaim.

He applied that tenacity to every endeavor both on and off the set. The outspoken Newman used his celebrity to call attention to political causes dear to his heart, including civil rights and nuclear proliferation. Taking up auto racing in midlife, Newman became the oldest driver to ever win a major professional auto race. A food enthusiast who would dress his own salads in restaurants, he launched the Newman’s Own brand dedicated to fresh ingredients, a nonprofit juggernaut that has generated more than $250 million for charity.

In Paul Newman: A Life, film critic and pop culture historian Shawn Levy gives readers the ultimate behind-the-scenes examination of the actor’s life, from his merry pranks on the set to his lasting romance with Joanne Woodward to the devastating impact of his son’s death from a drug overdose. This definitive biography is a fascinating portrait of an extraordinarily gifted man who gave back as much as he got out of life and just happened to be one of the most celebrated movie stars of the twentieth century.


From the Hardcover edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (26)

Biased Biography
Like other reviewers, I was totally shocked to read about so many of the immoral and unethical behaviors of a star whom I once greatly admired.However, the author seemed totally biased about Newman, who he repeatedly claimed was of high moral standards, high work ethic, etc., etc.

He was just another narcissistic movie star, who was a failure as a father.He was undoubtedly one of the most beautiful men to have ever lived, but accomplished little in my eyes.If a man walks out on his three children and NEVER spends time with them when they are growing up, I see that man as a failure in life.

The author did not hesitate to write about all of his shortcomings, but still held him up on a pedestal in regard to his "character".For me, Paul Newman no longer has that position.

A great read on a life lived in full.
Howard Roark was to Architecture what Paul Newman was to Acting, Racing and Philanthropy.The world could use more as focused as he was.

Enjoyable and very revealing
I had the pleasure of meeting both of the Newman's, but I never saw this side of Mr. Newman and glad I didn't at the time.I still will always have great respect for him no matter what and as far as Mrs. Newman-she is a true Goddess as far as I am concerned!

Paul Newman: A LIfe
Honestly written...captures the spirit of Newman and reminds us that while famous people have a platform to do interesting things at the end of the day they put on their pants the same way everyone else does.

The Man Was A Friggin' Freak Of Nature
There was more to the man than just a pretty face and Mr. Levy does a respectable job of chronicling the movie icon's life. This biography was certainly a breath of fresh air after recently reading the train wreck known as John Cheever's life. Mr. Levy delves deep enough to give some understanding of what made Mr. Newman tick. The actor, race car driver, philanthropist, husband, father, workaholic, quasi-alcoholic, liberal activist, entrepreneur and director was well aware of his limitations and how genetic dumb luck presented opportunities to him. Through sheer determination and years of patience, he overcame or made allowances for many of his shortcomings. Sure, Mr. Levy does briefly address some of the actor's more questionable actions such his one, short extramarital affair (6 pages), but the snafus are far and few in between. The book is fair and more of a celebration of Mr. Newman's life. He portrays him as all too human and ultimately just a decent guy. Mr. Levy's writing is sometimes a little too melodramatic for my tastes, but overall it is a wonderful read. I closed the book having learned something about Mr. Newman and how to be a positive role model for others. ... Read more

Product Description
Winner of International Automotive Media Gold Award 2010

For all his fame as one of Hollywood's great actors, a world-class humanitarian, and the proprietor of a natural food empire, the late Paul Newman had another intriguing facet that was less known and perhaps closer to his heart than all the rest of his well-chronicled life.He was an avid, successful and well respected car racer and team owner.This book tells that story--from Newman's racing career, begun in earnest at an age when many race car drivers contemplate retirement; to the partnership he formed in 1983 with Chicago racing entrepreneur and team owner Carl Haas; to the impressive stable of automobiles he owned, from the Porsches and Ferraris to quirkier modified VWs and Volvos.

This is the tale of a life full of passion and skill, of someone who entered the 24 Hours of Daytona at the age of 70 and made his last professional race outing at 82; whose roster of drivers for Newman/Hass reads as a who's who of open wheel racing; and whose interest in cars extended from the likely suspects to old trucks and new hybrids.And then there's the charming pal who, when the incorrigible prankster Robert Redford had a miserably wrecked Ferrari dropped at his front door, returned the favor by having the car, crushed into a cube, delivered to Redford's living room.The anecdotes, the races, the cars--all are here, adding up to what for many would be a full life, but for Paul Newman was simply another side of a man of talent, conviction, and enduring spirit. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Winning: The Racing Life of Paul Newman
This book is well written and gives an excellent review of racing machines as well as showing some of the lesser known sides of Paul Newman who has contributed so much to America besides his acting ability.Non-racing enthusiasts will enjoy the this book as well as those of us who enjoy and follow racing.

The Real Paul Newman
Having been a follower of PLN'S recing career from down here in NZ, I was glad of the chance to get a real insight through this book. I already had "McQueen's Machines" by Matt Stone and when I saw that he also wrote this one I knew that it would be good and I have not been disappointed.
This is about PLN and his real passion,motorsport and real people.

A Winner!
Terrific review and reminiscences of a racing career any racer would admire. A well done victory lap for a man who certainly deserved it.

Form Over Substance, But Nice Nevertheless
I enjoyed this book as a pictorial homage to an all around good man who started his auto racing late in life, working his way up from cheap beaters to Indy cars.This is a pleasant read with pictures on every page and candid comments from people who competed against, worked with, taught and respected Paul Newman the auto racer.This was Newman's escape from the movie world he held in such low regard.What struck me was Newman's willingness to learn the craft through hard work and patience.There is still room for a more thorough study of Newman the auto racer and one hopes it will be done before those of us who remember him are gone.

Winning Book with Winning Subject Matter
Only a couple times a year a well written and edited book on automobile racing comes out.For 2009 "Winning-The Racing Life of Paul Newman" is one of them.It gives a comprehensive overview of his racing life and how it overlapped and interweaved with the other passions of his life-acting, philanthropy, and his family.For the die hard race fan there will be photos and facts not seen before and for the movie fan a side of their favorite actor that previously was known, but not as detailed as it is in this book.It is an excellent read no matter from which direction you are drawn to the topic.
Buy it for yourself or as a gift.Neither party will be disappointed. ... Read more

Product Description
This is a pioneering and posthumous biography of a charismatic icon of Tinseltown whose rule over the hearts of American moviegoers lasted for more than half a century. It's loaded with never-before-published revelations that look behind the innocent-looking baby blues that enthralled the movie-going public. He became one of the most potent, desirable, and ambiguous sex symbols in America, a former sailor from Shaker Heights, Ohio, who parlayed his ambisexual charm and extraordinary good looks into one of the most successful careers in Hollywood. It's all here, as recorded by celebrity chronicler Darwin Porter--the dirt and the glory, the bad and the beautiful, the giddy highs and the agonizing lows of a great American star. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Fun romp thru the backside if celebrity !
This book is a wonderful read.It's quite different to see a portrait of a beloved star so exposed. It seems so preposterous at times, but at the same time quite believable. I hear no one suing........Enjoy!

All That's Missing is the Generic Porn Soundtrack
Seriously--it's not that I don't believe movie stars sometimes sleep their way to the top or that "straight" sex symbols can be bi-sexual or homosexual.It's possible that some/much of the book is factual.But the conversations sound completely false.Marlon Brando, James Dean, Paul Newman and Montegomery Clift sound exactly alike--as if filtered through (or fabricated by) the author's lusty imagination.True, some sources (Shelley Winters, Rod Steiger, Monty Clift's brother's unpublished memoir) are cited; but there's a lot of "what happened next is unknown..."; however, much is speculated upon, and you can be sure it involves Paul Newman having sex with someone.I gave this book 2 stars because it has pictures posted on the pages where people are mentioned rather than in the middle of the book.

Obviously full of untruths, Don't waste your money on this one
According to this author, Paul Newman would have sex with anything not nailed down.When he stated Steve McQueen and PN got it on, I knew the book was full of lies.I knew that Brando was bi-sexual and Sal mineo was gay and many others.But Paul Newman having done them, me doesn't think so.His having sex with Jackie Kennedy was believable.His having sex with all those male stars, not believable.How can he get away with this trash?If I was Joanne Woodward, I'd be suing this guy for every dime he has.The book is total trash and full of 90% lies.Supposedly, he even slept with Robert Redford.Laughable, but sad that someone would try to smear someone like this.I'm glad I got the book from the library and didn't waste my money on this one.Tsk tsk.This author is evil, again, don't waste your time on this book.IT IS TRASH !!

Yet another fraud
Check out the notes in the back of any Darwin Porter book. There aren't any. He doesn't substantiate any quote or "fact" in any of his bios. His books are works of fiction.

A great book of Fiction
Fascinating if it is all true. Some of the incidents were a little hard to believe about Paul Newman. It is interesting but you have to read with an open mind and say are some of these incidents real. I really believe that Mr. Darwin dreams that his book is true and Paul Newman really spent most of his time jumping from bed to bed. None of the incidents can be verified, because most of his "Conquests" are already gone. ... Read more

Product Description
For years, Paul Newman and his longtime buddy A. E. Hotchner filled old wine bottles with their homemade salad dressing to give to friends as Christmas gifts. Reasoning that what was good enough for their pals was good enough for the public, they formed Newman's Own to sell the dressing. Their entrepreneurial adventure was a smashing success; to date, Newman's Own products have generated more than $100 million in after-tax profits, all of which have been donated to charitable and educational causes.

In that same generous spirit, Newman, Hotchner, their families, and friends now share more than 125 of their favorite recipes with you. From simple to sophisticated, these dishes are imaginative and delicious, and while some use Newman's Own products, you can substitute your favorite brand of salsa, salad dressing, or spaghetti sauce without a problem. Some dishes are Newman household favorites, like The Newmanburger, Joanne's Cereal, and Nell Newman's Cauliflower and Parmesan Soup with Essence of Lemon. Some are contributions from friends, like Robert Redford's Lamb Chili with Black Beans, Julia Roberts's Fresh Peach Crisp, Matthew Broderick's Grilled T-bone Steak with Sweet Onion Marmalade and Campfire Mustard Sauce, and Whoopi Goldberg's Big Bad Ass Beef Ribs. There are winners from the Newman's Own/Good Housekeeping recipe contest, Sundance's Salsa Steak in a Sack, Towering Inferno Creole Posole, Paul's Picture Show Popcorn Crunch, and Sockarooni Orange Kiss-Me Cake among them.

Illustrated with wonderfully candid photographs and illuminated by Newman's own trenchant observations, Newman's Own Cookbook is a treat for the eye and the palate.Amazon.com Review
The thing of it is Paul Newman and his pal and partner, A. E. Hotchner,really did bottle Newman's salad dressing in a basement as Christmasgifts to friends and family. They really did ignore all manner of sane,well-reasoned advice from food production experts, and went commercial on a$40,000 budget. And they really, truly have, in the course of 15 years,grossed $710 million on sales of salad dressing, salsa, pasta sauce, andpopcorn, giving away to various charities and just causes the $100 millionthey realized in after-tax profit.

"We are told," A. E. Hotchner writes in the introduction to Newman's OwnCookbook, "that we are the only corporation in the world that givesaway all of its profits and starts with zero dollars in the bank on thefirst of each fiscal year." The same invigorating spirit can be found inthe pages of Newman's Own Cookbook. In fact, it can be removed as arecipe, cooked up, and served for dinner. Why have grilled t-bone steakwhen you can have Matthew Broderick's Grilled T-Bone Steak with Sweet OnionMarmalade and Campfire Mustard Sauce?

With photos, endless quips, and chapters that include Starters, Soups,Stews and Chilis, Main Courses, Pastas, Pizza, Breads and Snacks, Desserts,and Rice, Vegetables and Side Dishes, Newman's Own Cookbookprovides a rich compendium of family faves. Special guests the likes ofTony Randall (Grilled Veal Chop with Bourbon-Cracked Black Pepper Sauce),Julia Roberts (Fresh Peach Crisp), Gene Shalit (Spaghetti Carbonara), andWhoopi Goldberg (Big Bad Ass Beef Ribs) fill in around the edges. Goodpeople. Good food. --Schuyler Ingle ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

My Favorite Cookbook
I have bought this book several times as it "disappears" often after a dinner party or get-together!
The recipe for Butch's BBQ Sauce is easy to make, friends and family go crazy for it! It's great for Whoopi Goldberg's Big Bad Ass Beef Ribs! I usually double the recipe as many of the packaged ingredients are sold as double what is required. It also has a long shelf life, not that it sticks around long. So make sure you have a LARGE pot to make it in!
When friends ask for the recipe after trying it i give them their own Mason jar of sauce to go. The only drawback is it smells so damn good when being prepared you will start craving good BBQ...May not be a drawback after all!
The book and/or sauce makes a great gift!

what's cookin'
Did not realize this was a paperback; would have preferred hard cover as these were gifts. More prominence on such details in the web description would help the handicapped like me.

Good Recipes and Good Cause
I am a big fan of Paul Newman, the actor, and also Paul Newman the food mogul.Mr. Newman's salad dressings, sauces, popcorn and especially his lemonade are among the best products on the market.As an added bonus, all the after tax profits go to charity.This cookbook provides many of Mr. Newman's recipes as well as the type of humorous writing that appear on the labels of his products.In addition to Mr. Newman's recipes, such stars as Nicole Kidman and Matthew Broderick supply recipes.A fun book, the recipes are simple to follow and make and all the money goes to a good cause.

Real Food from Real People
I did not originally acquire this book for the food--I did it because it was a good cause and I grew up in the vicinity of the authors--but in the end, it's about the food. While there are pictures of the celebrity authors and contributors, they are infrequent, black and white candids.Newman and Hotchner let the food take the stage and it is the stuff of fun evenings with friends.While some recipes call for Newman's Own products, it is always stated that cooks may substitute another choices.There is some originality to the dishes--consider making a custard with lemonade instead of milk or baking a cake made with pasta sauce.The directions are simple, the food pleasantly earthy.The selection is a bit idiosyncratic but carnivores and vegetarians will find suitable selections. Not bad at all.

Yummy!
I have tried several of the recipes and have not had a single one that I did not like.Good instructions, most of the recipes do not have too many ingredients.My family has complimented everything that I have made. ... Read more

Product Description
Paul Newman: A Life in Pictures is the first definitive photo book every published about this giant of cinema. Created with the approval of Paul Newman, this elegant work draws together hundreds of rare and never-before-seen photographs. At the age of 80, Paul Newman is as admired today for his philanthropy and straightforward character as he is for his legendary film performances and iconic good looks. This luxe package includes copious images from both his Hollywood and racing careers as well as his private life. With a detailed biography and images ranging from family photos to the work of prestigious photographers, this is the must-have collection for Newman's legions of fans. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

Thrilled with my purchase.
This is a gift for my mother, a HUGE Newman fan, who will, no doubt, be sequestered after she receives it ;).Great condition and arrived promptly.Thanks!

Great Photos
I gave this to my sister as a gift. Once I saw this book, I knew that my sister, the long time admirer of Paul Newman would just love to own this book.

A must-have for all his fans
This book has everything you ever wanted to see about Newman's life and you never dared to see.

Fantastic for Paul Newman lovers
Very well done.Many interesting photographs, large - and cover his entire career, very young and older... Text on his life, including his childhood is very well done, interesting, and enlightening.If you like Paul Newman, you will be very happy with this book.

Cindy Mueller
Chicago, IL

A leading man we can live with.
As a Actor, Family Man , CEO of Newman's Own Products .Mr. Paul Newman is a real professional and a remarkable person. Thisbook captures him in all these and more of his great and quiet moments. The pictures are worth there weight in having this book. Paul Newman loves water can be seen threw some of his films. this book will make you view all of his films. A real man for all seasons. ... Read more

Product Description
Bestselling author A. E. Hotchner's intimate account of his 53-year friendship with his pal Paul Newman.

A. E. Hotchner first met Paul Newman in 1955 when the virtually unknown actor assumed the lead role in Hotchner’s first television play, based on an Ernest Hemingway story. The project elevated both men from relative obscurity to recognition and began a close and trusted friendship that lasted until Newman’s death in 2008.
 
In Paul and Me, Hotchner depicts a complicated, unpredictable, fun-loving, talented man, and takes the reader along on their adventures. The pair traveled extensively, skippered a succession of bizarre boats, confounded the business world, scored triumphs on the stage, and sustained their friendship through good times and bad.  Most notably, they started Newman’s Own as a prank and watched it morph into a major enterprise that so far has donated all its $300 million in profit to charities including the Hole in the Wall Camps worldwide, dedicated to helping thousands of children with life-threatening illnesses.
 
Paul and Me, complete with personal photographs, is the story of a freewheeling friendship and a tribute to the acclaimed actor who gave to the world as much as the world gave him. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (20)

Tribute to a feisty, fun-loving friend
A.E. Hotchner's memoir of Paul Newman is an eloquent tribute to the man and artist, written with grace, modesty, and wit. Decades ago, Hotchner wrote "Papa Hemingway," one of my all-time favorite memoirs. While "Papa Hemingway" traced an ominous arc--you knew Hemingway was headed for self-destruction-- "Paul and Me" follows an almost joyous trajectory, from Newman's ascent in Hollywood to his unlikely successes as champion race car driver, food icon, and philanthropist. (The glaring exception is the tragic death of Newman's son, Scott.)

The book is packed with anecdotes that portray Newman as feisty, fun-loving, and complex. As he did with Hemingway, Hotchner personifies for Newman both Sancho Panza (the sidekick) and Boswell (the memoirist). But he goes them one better--he plays a vital role in helping Newman turn popcorn dreams into business and philanthropy realities.

Although Hotchner never states it, his friendship seems to represent an anchor to Newman's sail--a needed stablizing influence. It's easy to think how lucky Hotchner has been to pal around with Hemingway and Newman, but one ends "Paul and Me" thinking this as well--how lucky they were to have him as a friend.

Incredible insight into a very private man.
I purchased this book as a gift for my husband, at his request.To date our daughters and I have also read it and others are waiting in line.Hotchner's relationship with Paul Newman spanned such a long time frame and is written in such a way that it feels like you were there on their adventures.Newman is someone I have long admired for his work with the 'Hole in the Wall Camp', but I had no idea how much else he had accomplished.He was a humble man of many means, but remained true to himself and his ideals.Today it isn't uncommon to hear celebrities tooting their own horns when they donate some money to this cause or that, but you rarely see them getting emotionally involved.Wonder how different Jaws would have been if he had accepted the role of Chief Broday?

And Now a Word or TwoFrom
Mr. A.E. Hotchner, the self-appointed arbiter of who's enlightened and who's not.A tedious read with random, slightly humorous stories tossed in here and there, Mr. Hotchner does himself nor Mr. Newman any favors. And the price! You'd think a Liberal old sot like A.E. would remember us little people and keep his books priced accordingly.

Meandering Personal Stories That Lack Details
These personal stories from Paul Newman's best friend and business partner would have been better if more detailed and complete. Often they are a few paragraphs that lack any explanation and end without a conclusion. There are certainly some interesting insights into the actor, but the Paul in this book is nothing like his public personality. He was abrasive and surly when forced to be publicly interviewed, but here he is laid-back and absent-minded. The question that goes unanswered is how could such a nice guy in private be such a crab in public?

The author's writing style is a bit frustrating. He somehow completely quotes entire conversations from 30 to 50 years ago! That's obviously impossible, so much of what is written is suspect.He also will tell details out of order and start a story without finishing it.

There's not much on Newman's movies or acting career.Instead there is way too much about failed fishing trips and a vacation to the Bahamas to scout a movie that the two never made together. Instead of droning on about insignificant island visits that resulted in nothing, why not go into detail about Newman's career choices? Or trying to explain Newman's extreme liberal political leanings (Newman's bigotry against conservatives like Nixon and Charlton Heston are just accepted instead of explained).

There are good things about the book--the section on how Newman's Own got started is fascinating for it's lack of business plan. The movies that Newman liked are surprising--and the one he hated the most probably made him the most money (Towering Inferno). And the author goes into some detail about the death of Newman's son, though failing to place much of the deserved blame squarely on the absent father.

So this is a 3 and 1/2-star book. The Amazon reviewer average is right.It is worth skimming through but will leave readers frustrated.

Great Reading
One of the best books I've read in a long time.Wished there was more! ... Read more

Product Description

Shameless exploitation has never been more fun nor done more good for more people than when done by Newman’s Own—the first green food company to use all-natural ingredients, and still the most successful.

It was 1982 when Paul Newman and A. E. Hotchner made their foray into local gourmet shops with bottles of their homemade salad dressing. The venture was intended to be a lark, a way to poke fun at the traditional way the market operates. Hurdling obstacle after obstacle, they created the first company to mass-market all-natural products, eliminating the chemicals, gums, and preservatives that existed in food at the time. This picaresque saga is the inspiring story of how the two friends parlayed the joke into a multimillion-dollar company that gives all its profits to the less fortunate without spending money on galas, mailings, and other expensive outreaches. It also serves as a textbook for foundations and charitable organizations looking to do the most good they can with what they have.

Told in alternating voices, Newman and Hotchner have written a zany tale that is a business model for entrepreneurs, an inspirational book, and just plain delightful reading.

Customer Reviews (8)

Newman IS the BEST
This is a very interesting book about Paul Newman & his Friend on how it all began with "One Bottle Of Salad Dressing At A Time" He writes with insight & humor in telling how his now mass-market company began as a lark. One bottle of salad dressing also led to the Hole In The Wall Camps for children with health issues. Mr. Newman was far & away more than a Blue eyed actor!! This book arrived looking like NEW!!

Humorous Account of New Dimensions for Philanthropy
"Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life." -- 1 Timothy 6:17-19 (NKJV)


In Pursuit of the Common Good details the almost accidental development of the Newman's Own line of foods, its eventual success, and how the founders, Paul Newman and A.E. Hotchner, developed a new kind of charity to allow seriously ill children to attend summer camp. The book is filled with humor, good-hearted fun and a will to do good. Most people will find the overall effect to be heart-warming . . . except for the tendency to self-congratulation.

The book's is one part self-deprecating personal narrative, one part "advanced moving and shaking", one part "legend-making" tales, one part "I told you so" to the corporate "experts", one part funny stories from customers and one part business history mixed with two parts serious stories about young peoples' illnesses, three parts lessons about establishing a new charity, with a dash of recipes and cartoons for final humor. The mixture, while quite unusual, has a zestful freshness that leaves a taste for more.

If you are like me, you've never quite understood how Newman's Own came into existence and became a big success. I've tasted some of the products and find them to be of good quality. But there must be something more than that to it.

I was even more surprised to read in past news articles that all profits are distributed to charity annually. "Where in the world did the company get the working capital to stay in business?" was the question on my mind.

I also wondered how anyone would decide which charities to support and which to shun.

In Pursuit of the Common Good answered all those questions and more for me.

I was deeply moved by the tale of starting up and running the Hole in the Wall camps for seriously ill youngsters, and intend to tell others about this good work.

What intrigued me most about the book was that it showed that doing the right thing could be amazingly commonsensical. The products are good because Paul Newman would not be satisfied until he thought they were. The packaging copy and promotional activities are zany, and reflect the good humor of the authors . . . not some copywriter. Profits and cash flow are good because the authors paid attention to setting up their business model so the company would need very little capital. Making the profits go to charity allowed the authors to have fun with the business in a way they could not have done if they had been trying to line their own pockets. The psychic and emotional satisfaction of establishing the camps and helping other charities are probably worth much more than any money can buy.

I hope that other talented people, whether they are prominent or not, will consider how they could follow some parts of what the authors did with their business or their charity. I thank them both for sharing the story in this entertaining book.

good read
this is a good read- i am a big paul newman fan so it was definitely a must for me and it was wonderful insight to his charity work

A book worthy of a man of Newman's stature.
"In Pursuit of the Common Good" (subtitled: Twenty Five Years of Improving the World, One Bottle of Salad Dressing at a Time) is a non-fiction work written by the late Paul Newman and Aaron E. Hotchner (American author, most known IMHO for his novels about Ernest Hemmingway).

This book is about the founding of "Newmans Own" natural foods, how it all started with Newman not being sure what to do with leftovers of his personal salad dressing made in a batch intended as holiday gifts for friends, and why they decided to give 100 percent of the profit from "Newmans Own" to charity.

I feel that the first few chapters would be interesting for anyone planning to start a small business, especially one selling food products. The challenges and pitfalls that they overcame are very interesting- I had no idea that a well-known movie star would have to go through all of this just to start a business. I was also surprised that Newman was very involved in the formula for the salad dressing, and other products such as the salsa and pasta sauces.

As an example, the first "Newmans Own" maranara sauce was based on a recipe Newman wrote on the back of a paper bag and went through no less than 10 "pre production" iterations before it met with PLN's approval to produce.

The methods used by Newman and Hotchner to gather public opinion about their products are noteworthy also. Newman's Own saved many thousands of dollars by not listening to the so called "marketing experts" and using their own methods (saving an estimated $1,320,000 in pre-production research).

It's worth noting that prior to Newman's Own, large food producers such as Kraft, etc. felt it was impossible to offer "all natural" foods with fresh ingredients for sale to the general public. In this way all of Newman's Own products were pioneers in the area of natural foods containing no chemical preservatives.

Newman at first balked at the idea of having his face on the product labels but was encouraged to do so by Ellen Posey (wife of broadcaster and former F1, Indy and sports car racer Sam Posey). Ellen was also responsible for the distinctive design of the Newman's Own product labels.

It is a light and humorous read, and like the Newmans Own products, the proceeds from sale of the book go to "Hole in the Wall Camps" for crippled and terminally ill children.

Each section of the book has a few pages of reprinted letters from people commenting about Newmans Own products. One letter is addressed to "Mr Redford"; Hopefully Paul took that with good humor.

There is a section in the back of the book with Paul Newman's favorite recipes, some of which were originally published in Good Housekeeping magazine, others were published in "The Hole in the Wall Gang Cookbook".

Shameless Exploitation of the Common Good
Newman's Own salad dressings started out the butt of many a joke or cartoon (some of which are re-printed in the book), but in the last 26 years, has become both a multi-million dollar food company, and also a major source of funding for charities, as it gives all its profits to charity. And Newman's Own also led the way for mass-market organic foods, using only all natural ingredients and no additives. In Pursuit of the Common Good is both the story of the company, and Newman's participation in it, but also included letters from users with suggestions for alternate uses of the products (shoe shining for one), recipes, cartoons, and many stories of the children and organizations that benefited from the profits. Originally published as Shameless Exploitation of the Common Good in 2003, this soft cover reprint is a cheap, easy way to read the story of how a company can do good, set an example, and still provide a product that people buy because they enjoy it, not because it's the right or green one available. ... Read more

Product Description
This collection of original essays on the practice of linguistic fieldwork and language documentation by twelve leading field linguists considers the study of languages in a natural setting. Drawing on extensive research experience, the authors review those techniques that work best in practice, and discuss a variety of relevant topics, including the attitude of the linguist, the structure and content of the work session, the varied roles of native speakers, and the practical and personal challenges of doing research in an unfamiliar environment. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

An entertaining collection of papers on all aspects of fieldwork, from how to collect good data to how to be a polite foreigner
This 2001 collection of papers on various aspects of fieldworks proved to be highly informative reading for this graduate student of linguistics who can't wait to get out into the field himself.

Marianne Mithun's "Who shapes the record: speaker and linguist" warns against relying on only elicitation and calls for letting the informant speak naturally, because you can go through his utterances for data later. In "Places and people: field sites and informants" Gerrit J. Dimmendaal gives useful advice on the recruitment of informants and how to treat them during the research process. David Gil's "Escaping Eurocentrism" exhorts fieldworkers to describe languages based on their own internal logic instead of how they compare to the Standard Average European type. Nancy C. Dorian's "Surprises in Sutherland" observes that within a community each informant may reveal a very different idiolect from the others.

When it comes to practical advice on how to get reliable data, Shobhana L. Chelliah's "The role of text collection and elicitation in linguistic fieldwork" is probably the most important of the papers. She explains how to mix those two methods to avoid the pitfalls of each alone, and warns the reader about the tendency of informants to use prestige forms if not carefully directed. In the essay that follows, "Monolingual fieldwork", Daniel Everett makes the case that data gathered when the linguist makes use of no intermediary language and directly seeks to converse in the language being studied is of greater quality. Certainly this approach is not feasible for all, and Everett himself admits that this adds six months to a fieldwork project, but it will nonetheless be thought-provoking to all.

In the contribution "The give and take of fieldwork" linguist Fiona Mc Laughlin and informant Thierno Seydou Sall give their personal perspectives on such cooperation. Ian Maddieson's "Phonetic fieldwork" is a concise tutorial on how to accurately record the sounds of the language being studied with whizbang modern technology and a lot of old-fashioned listening. Karen Rice's "Learning as one goes" is a set of personal observations on how to approach aspects of the language for which have not been adequately studied yet. Finally, Nicholas Evans talks about the problem of identifying the "last speaker" of a language in Australian environments where everyone is multilingual in his essay "The last speaker is dead - long live the last speaker!

Some of the essays are written in a fairly conversational tone, and there's plenty of entertaining anecdotes on travel complications, so in the main LINGUISTIC FIELDWORK is a breeze to read compared to most books in the field.

Excellent guide for would-be fieldworkers
I bought this because it is the prescribed textbook for my graduate Field Methods class. This does not deal with theoretical material: instead, it is a collection of essays about fieldwork and its many aspects, both linguistic and non-linguistic. If one wants to do fieldwork as the principal method of research, then this book can prepare one for the task. Personally, I do not see myself as a fieldworker but more of an experimentalist, but reading this book made me want to try the endeavor somehow.

Great resource for those considering fieldwork
This is a collection of personal essays from linguists who have done fieldwork all over the world.I found the content to be very accessible, enjoyable to read, and very helpful (I am preparing to begin linguistic fieldwork this fall).In the introduction, the editors state that the goal of the book is to a) convey the intellectual excitement of lingistic fieldwork and b) give a realistic picture of the complexities involved in describing a language as it is used by actual speakers in natural settings.They have definitely succeeded in achieving this goal.Topics covered include: the pros and cons of doing monolingual fieldwork, escaping Eurocentrism, phonetic fieldwork, text collection vs. elicitation, finding consultants, and a number of other practical tips for carrying out fieldwork from experienced fieldworkers.Contributors include: Larry Hyman, Marianne Mithun, Gerrit Dimmendaal, Ken Hale, David Gil, Nancy Dorian, and many others. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A Great Book on Paul's Filmography
This book is one of a series published about several actors and actresses, which came out in the 1970's and 1980's. Being a general survey of Paul Newman's films, the book does not go into detail about them or his life, but there's still plenty of interesting information and great photographs. This book does not cover all of Paul's films, as it only goes up to the late 1970's. Still, it's a good read, and many books from this series are now collectors' items, such as "The Films of Doris Day." ... Read more

Product Description

A People Tribute to Paul Newman 1025-2008.

Customer Reviews (6)

a must for newman fans
Since I was a little girl I have adored Newman and Woodward as much as I could, without ever knowing them. The pictures in this book include some of my all time favorites of the couple as well as Newman alone. The stories that accompany the pictures seemed to be factual and unsugarcoded but also tender and emotional. Loved it!

Good Gift
I bought this book as a gift for my husband.He gave it a 4-star rating.He said it was informative and interesting.

A treasure for Paul Newman fans!
This book is packed with photographs of Paul Newman, his associates and wife, and the selection is excellent. We see him from his early days in movies all the way through his aging years. The photographs range from full page to partial page. The publishers clearly didn't stint on costs when they created this book. I would highly recommend it to any fan or to anyone who simply wants glimpses of Paul Newman over the years.

Paul, the Man, Newman
How can you not love pictures and facts about Paul Newman.
From Cool Hand Luke to roles with the most beautiful stars
in Hollywood.And a touch of life with his beautiful wife,
Joanne.His benevolent ways....
One of a kind!!!

A wonderful way to remember a wonderful guy
I was so sad the day Paul Newman died, he is my hero. When I went to the grocery store a few days later and saw him staring back at me from the magazines, I literaly ran over and grabbed this book. I think I scared some folks...
This book really lifted my spirits and made realize its better to remember all the good things he did and the good person he was than to just mourn the loss. Highly recommended. ... Read more

Product Description

Join Paul Newman and friends in the kitchen and at the table with more than 70 kid- and family-friendly recipes.

In 1988, Paul Newman and A.E. Hotchner established the first Hole in the Wall Gang Camp for children with cancer and other life-threatening diseases, using the profits from their food company, Newman's Own. Today, over 7,000 children attend the camps each year.

The spirit of sharing and good times fills The Hole in the Wall Gang Cookbook.Letter and poems from the campers, candid photographs, and a preface from Paul Newman make using the book a treat. So tie on an apron, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for some good eating with recipes like:

• JULIA ROBERTS'S Baked Potato Soup
• NEWMAN'S Favorite Chicken Soup
• DAVID LETTERMAN'S Baked Chicken in A+ Sauce
• NATHAN LANE'S Turkey Meatballs and Spahetti
• BILL IRWIN'S Three-Cheese Potato Gratin
• ANJELICA HUSTON'S Bandito Broccoli
• JUDY COLLIN'S Brown Sugar Carrot Coins
• NEWMAN'S Own Sweet New England Popcorn
• WHOOPI GOLDBERG'S Classic American Carrot Cake with a Twist
• MICHAEL BOLTON'S White Chocolate Brownie Hot Fudge Sundae
• ROSEMARY CLOONEY'S Two-Fisted Chocolate Chip Cookies

Customer Reviews (3)

Nice Cookbook from a Great Company that Donates to Outstanding Organizations
I love Paul Newman.He does so much for kids and other charitable organizations.It's hard to believe an actor like Paul Newman would be so active in non-profit organizations.It's also nice that he does it through offering awesome products that help your family out too.

This cookbook is an awesome example of that.They contain mostly healthy recipes that contribute to a well-balanced and nutritious meal.While this cookbook isn't for cooking with the youngest of children, it is perfect for children over 5, even up to teenagers.One of the things that I love about this book is that it has a Vegetables/Sides category that is packed with vege meals for kids, along with suggestions on what to add to make even the ickiest vegetables appealing to the most of... ahem...Discriminating palates.:)The "Ten Tips for food and Kitchen Safety" tips are great for parents who're teaching kitchen safety.

The book is filled with anecdotal stores and letters from children and other people impacted by Paul Newman's "Hole in the Wall Gang" group.Some of the stories are hilarious (my favorite was the one from the 13 year old who said she likes Paul Newman's Dressing because it doesn't give her dad "the squirts").

For charitable purposes alone, that makes this book worth the investment.But something about knowing you've bought a cookbook that helps reinforce good eating, where you can teach your kids how to cook anything from Chicken Soup and Stone Soup, Tic-Tac-Toe Quesadillas, Peace Pasta, Three-Cheese Potato Gratin, Cheddar Muffins, and other great, family friendly meals...I don't know...It just makes you feel really good.:)I don't know what's best about this book...The recipes, the fact you can make them with your family, or the charities you support by buying it.Anybody who cooks needs this book!

Or maybe I'm a little biased...There's a recipe called "Newman's Very Own Lemon Blueberry Cake" which, I swear, tastes EXACTLY like my wedding cake...;)

God Bless This Company!
I am a loyal user of Newman's Own and Newman's Own Organics.This is a fun cookbook.My daughter and I enjoyed making the Jack in the Beanstalk Soup.It is nice to have a cookbook including so many of the Newman products.Lemonade Chicken Wings?Very tasty and a nice variety from the spicy.

Congratualtions Mr Newman.I hope this book makes the kids a lot of money!

The Turkey meatballs and spaghetti is really good.
The books recipes are fun and easy. Some of My family members will not eat beef, and the Turkey meatballs and spaghetti was an excellent sub for beef meatballs. ... Read more

Product Description
Dangerous and difficult for both mother and child, what was the birth experience like in the Middle Ages? Dependent, in part, on social class, what pastimes did children enjoy? What games did they play? With often uncomfortable and even harsh living conditions, what kind of care did children receive in the home on a daily basis? These are just a few of the questions this work addresses about the day-to-day childhood experiences during the Middle Ages. Focusing on all social classes of children, the topics are wide-ranging. Chapters cover birth and baptism; early childhood; playing; clothing; care and discipline; formal education; university education; career training for peasants, craftsmen, merchants, clergy and nobility; and coming of age. In addition, three appendices are included. Appendix I provides information on the humoral theory of medicine. Appendix II offers examples of medieval math problems. Appendix III covers a unique episode in medieval history known as "The Children s Crusade." ... Read more

Product Description

In 1978, Paul Newman and A. E. Hotchner made a foray into local gourmet shops bearing bottles of their homemade salad dressing. Freewheeling, irreverent entrepreneurs, they conceived of their venture as a great way to poke fun at the mundane method of traditional marketing. Much to their surprise, their products spurred a tidal wave of enthusiasm in the country’s supermarkets. What had started as a lark quickly escalated into a full-fledged business, the first company to mass-market all-natural foods, Newman’s Own became a major player in the food business. The company’s profits were donated to medical research, education, the environment, children’s programs, and to the creation of the eight "Hole in the Wall Gang" camps for children with serious illnesses.

Newman and Hotchner recount the picaresque saga of their unexpected success in SHAMELESS EXPLOITATION IN PURSUIT OF THE COMMON GOOD. In alternating voices, playing off each other in classic “Odd Couple” style, they describe how they systematically disregarded the advice of experts and relied instead on instinct, imagination, and common sense. They write about how they hurdled obstacle after obstacle, share their hilarious misadventures, and reveal their off-beat solutions to conventional problems. Even their approach to charity is decidedly different: Every year, they give away all the company’s profits and start over again. The results of this amazing generosity is brought to life in heartwarming stories about the children at their camps.

From the rare glimpses into Newman’s private life to A. E. Hotchner’s wonderfully told tales, SHAMELESS EXPLOITATION IN PURSUIT OF THE COMMON GOOD is the perfect nonmanagement book, at once playful, informative, and inspirational.

Customer Reviews (19)

What a Visionary
So glad Paul Newman decided to make salad dressing and popcorn and spaghetti sauce. So glad he decided to donate the profits from his very successful company to set up camps for terminally ill children. So glad he didn't write a business plan but went with his instincts to achieve his goal. And so glad he did it with his good friend, AE Hotchner. This is a very inspiring book, and Paul explains why it was so difficult to put his photo on the products. If it helps sells products, then there will be more resources for the children. Newman and Hotchner have changed lives for the better forever. Feels good to buy their delicious products knowing the proceeds are helping children.

Great Fellows, great book
I knew that Paul Newman had something different about him from watching his movies. But after reading this book it proves how special ol PL (Paul Newman) and Hotch were in what they were able to accomplish. Great writing and a great story for anyone who wants to read a success story all the way to the end.

a few grins, but mostly... caca de toro
The story itself is a fairly typical -- a couple of guys, a big idea, overcoming incredible odds to become successful.I love business stories like that -- the Burma Shave story is a particularly good one.Everyone is familiar with Southwest Airlines and dozens of other similar entrepreneur up-from-nothing stories.

There is an "aw, shucks" style to this book that was cute for 4 chapters and then got tedious.Luckily, the last half of the book was about the Hole in the Wall Gang camps, and these chapters left out the humor.The tone was an improvement.

This book is (slightly) entertaining at the expense of being in any way helpful.I can sum up: Two idiots with name recognition broke all the rules, stupided all over themselves, and still created a dynamite food empire and a wonderful philanthropic organization-- that's the claim of the book.If you are interested in the truth behind their fairy tale, you'll have to look elsewhere.

Shameless Exploitation isn't much of a read.It's more fun to go to the stores and read the legends off the salad dressing labels than to invest time in this book.

Making a difference with a smile
This book has come out in paperback with the shortened title of "In Pursuit of the Common Good".This was a fun book to read which both made me laugh and tear up.What Newman and Hotchner accomplished by just being themselves and making practical decisions is truly amazing.Their journey from making salad dressing to donating 200 million to charity illustrates that when people see a thing that makes sense in its goals and how it is run, they will pitch in both amazing amounts of money and time to help.What a wonderful creation the Hole in the Wall Gang Camps are.

Paul Newman - A man for all seasonings
John D. Rockefeller, Sr. struck gold in oil in the 1870s and, if memory serves, gave $524,890,792.07 to charity during his lifetime.More recently, Paul Newman struck gold in salad dressing and, similarly, has given over $200 million to such causes.This book, among other things, tells us how he was able to do it.

But that isn't the reason I read this book.I didn't read it to learn about the grocery business or about how Newman became a successful entrepreneur.I certainly had no desire to learn how to make salad dressing, and, despite the book's rather glib title, I didn't read it to be entertained.I had simply heard so much, and yet so little, for so long about "Newman's Own" salad dressing, his charitable contributions, and his "Hole in the Wall Gang" camp that I wanted to know more about him and about them.And this book did not disappoint.

For, along with gaining a much broader insight into the grocery business and a much better understanding of how to make salad dressing, I also got to see just how far honesty, integrity, persistence, and a little flamboyance can get you - especially if you have a prominent name and an outstanding product, and your heart is in the right place.And Newman's heart, and that of his partner, A. E. Hotchner, certainly were in the right place, especially when Paul finally relented and agreed to be pictured on every bottle of salad dressing - but only if all profits made from their sale went to charity.From then on, the business which they had started as a lark took on a life of its own and carried them along in its wake.

It is hard to summarize this book since the achievements which it outlines are simply too great.In keeping with its title, it is written in a jocular vein and, for the most part, is written in such a way as to downplay the contributions of the authors.But the good works which they have done, especially with their "Hole in the Wall Gang" camp for desperately ill children and the similar camps which their efforts have inspired, and which they have supported, around the world, speak for themselves.They must be justly proud.They are definitely men for all seasonings.Now go out and buy a bottle or two of "Newman's Own."I did.
... Read more

Product Description

In 1798, the federal government levied its first direct tax on American citizens, one that seemed to favor land speculators over farmers. In eastern Pennsylvania, the tax assessors were largely Quakers and Moravians who had abstained from Revolutionary participation and were recruited by the administration of John Adams to levy taxes against their patriot German Reformed and Lutheran neighbors.

Led by local Revolutionary hero John Fries, the farmers drew on the rituals of crowd action and stopped the assessment. Following the Shays and Whiskey rebellions, Fries's Rebellion was the last in a trilogy of popular uprisings against federal authority in the early republic. But in contrast to the previous armed insurrections, the Fries rebels used nonviolent methods while simultaneously exercising their rights to petition Congress for the repeal of the tax law as well as the Alien and Sedition Acts. In doing so, they sought to manifest the principle of popular sovereignty and to expand the role of local people within the emerging national political system rather than attacking it from without.

After some resisters were liberated from the custody of a federal marshal, the Adams administration used military force to suppress the insurrection. The resisters were charged with sedition and treason. Fries himself was sentenced to death but was pardoned at the eleventh hour by President Adams. The pardon fractured the presidential cabinet and splintered the party, just before Thomas Jefferson's and the Republican Party's "Revolution of 1800."

The first book-length treatment of this significant eighteenth-century uprising, Fries's Rebellion shows us that the participants of the rebellion reengaged Revolutionary ideals in an enduring struggle to further democratize their country.

Customer Reviews (3)

A wonderful example of Newman's storytelling prowess
Newman takes his time setting up the context for this book; he explains in detail the political and cultural climate in which it took place.This takes a few chapters, and they aren't the most exciting chapters to read.Once he gets into the telling of the actually rebellion, though, the pace picks up and Newman's wonderful storytelling skills come out clearly on every single page.For anyone interested in Pennsylvania History, or anyone interested in how early Americans viewed their own government and their role in government, this is a very telling read.

Fries's Rebellion by Paul Douglas Newman
In this study of a minor incident in 1799 Pennsylvania, Newman employs meticulous detail and penetrating analysis to uncover the misunderstood motives of a band of truly democratic revolutionaries, tragically suppressed for seeking their constitutional rights as they understood them.

Impressive First Book
The founding fathers are all the rave right now and Paul Douglas Newman--not the actor--gives an impressive account of a forgotten event that cost John Adams dearly. It is a highly readable account and should win a book award or two. Buy it, you will enjoy the time spent with this work. ... Read more

Product Description

Paul Leonard Newman was a true Renaissance man who is known worldwide for his performances as an actor and director. His career in the entertainment industry stretched over 50 years, as did his marriage to Joanne Woodward—an unusual and notable achievement in Hollywood. Newman was also a talented race car driver, an influential political activist, a savvy businessman, and a passionate philanthropist who created a food company that has donated more than $280 million to charities. But Newman also suffered many defeats throughout his life; he was human, just as we all are.

This biography provides a chronological narrative that documents Newman's long life and myriad contributions. Information regarding his early years in Ohio, his service in the U.S. Navy during World War II, his success on the stage and screen, his work with charities and business ventures, and his exploits in auto racing is provided.

Product Description
A photographic portrait of one of Hollywood's finest actors chronicles the personal life and film career of Paul Newman, discussing his relationship with his wife, Joanne Woodward, his dedication to political activism and charity, his love of car racing, and more.Amazon.com Review
This biography marshals all the facts of Newman's life--his affluentchildhood in Cleveland; his navy days; his enduring, almost 40-year marriageto Joanne Woodward, which broke up an earlier marriage with three young kids;his early obsession with car racing; the death of the eldest of his six sonsin an accidental drug and alcohol overdose; his devotion to charitable workthat produced the spaghetti sauce and the salad dressing; and, of course, hiswork in Hollywood, including numerous Oscar nominations and one Oscar win.The book's pictures are half the attraction rather than a little extraaddition; they make the book an ideal gift for any of Newman's legion offans. ... Read more

Product Description
A racy leading man, an American icon: this is Hollywood legend Paul Newman. Almost everyone knows the public story of America's heartthrob, but few know what really went on beyond the screen-until now. Quirk's book chronicles Newman's life from pitfall to pinnacle. Quirk's Paul Newman is deeply probing and, at times, painfully truthful about the private life of this charismatic celebrity presenting an entire Newman from childhood to his final days. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Simply can't trust what is written here
Quirk lays bare Newman.'s faults..&he positively dislikes Joanne Woodward....which is OK in itself. He was writing at a timewhen, I think, he had to combat fan worship & he's also Old Hollywood defending itself against the New Hollywood/anti Hollywood that Newman represented. He also thinks that Newman had at least one homosexual affair/encounter &, being homosexual himself, he gives the impression that he is annoyed that Newman didn't "come out of the closet". Whether he's right, of course, I have no way of knowing....but he doesn't accuse him of being promiscuous, he makes it clear that he thinks that most of the rumours of affairs...whether heterosexual or homosexual...were self seeking...&, in general, he can't comment on whether any of them were true (apart from the one homosexual affair mentioned above, which, he says came from a reliable source) He doesn't wallow in smut & the book is well written.

So why am I only giving it one star ? Because I....with my very limited knowledge....have found at least 2 important, basic errors, which means that I don't know how many more there might be. The first one is when he says that PN's first wife, Jackie Witte, had a bit part in Harper....in fact, that was a Jackie de Witt....a different person altogether. That wouldn't be so bad, but he actually quotes " a friend ofJackie Witte's" saying how painful it was for her to do that work & how it made her hatred of Joanne Woodward well up...presumably these quotes were complete inventions (????) (Hasten to add, I'm not denying the pain Newman & Woodward caused to his first wife...as Newman admitted...I'm talking about the reliability of this book) The second mistake is that he says that, when PN returned from his honeymoon with Woodward, he made The Left Handed Gun...in fact he made another film (Long Hot Summer) AFTER that BEFORE he married Woodward. Lita Milan (his co star in The Left Handed Gun) has always maintained that they had an affair. Quirk doesn't mention that & I've no idea if it's true, but anyone putting these things together would assume he came back from his honeymoon, leaving Woodward still recovering from a miscarriage, & immediately embarked on an affair.

Whatever Quirk thinks of Newman the man, I didn't expect such a prominent film critic to get basic facts wrong...he's had time enough to correct them for the new edition. And it looks as though he's invented at least one set of quotes. Everything else might be totally accurate......or completely untrue.

Worse than imaginable...
Honestly one of the worst biographies I've ever read - and I've read a lot.Quirk is passive aggressive to the point of utter frustration.It's almost as if he holds a personal grudge and chooses to exercise his wrath through innuendo and "can't be proven, but let's just say it because no one will know the difference."I can't tell if Quirk desperately wants Paul to be a closeted homosexual, or just wants to make us all convinced that he was.There's nothing in the book that specifically shows any hint at all of homosexuality, yet Quirk continues to express the potential of it.At the end of the day - this is a man who pursued women in public and private. Who rebuffed male advances in public and private - and who, by all accounts was completely comfortable having very dear gay friends--so the notion that he was a homophobe in public to shield his homosexuality in private is absurd. Yet Quirk spends massive amounts of time trying to get us to believe this was the case.

Quirk can't decide if Newman is a normal guy among men or a complete ass.My problem with Quirk is that his writing is so judgmental - from a journalistic perspective, just give me the facts, don't slant it with your own input and questions.I think on many levels, it's clear Newman the man was not easy, was not a push-over, and was not without strong opinions.I think it's clear he used his celebrity where he could for what he cared about - and who doesn't, by the way? Name one celebrity of his caliber who hasn't and doesn't today - Pitt, Clooney, Jolie, Affleck, DiCaprio...stop me anytime.On the notion of his parenting, we get it.He wasn't a great father in many respects, but again, most of us grew up in the world where we realized our fathers' flaws long ago. Rarely is there a perfect father out there...and I don't believe Newman was as nonchalant and obtuse to Scott's death as Quirk claims. Given what he committed to Scott's foundation in the decades following his death - no way, no how.And like most fathers who were focused on their careers while their children were small - the eventually become amazing grandfathers and parents to their adult children...which most reports point to having occurred with Newman.

There are too many gross guestimates, questionables, and ambiguities in the storytelling of this book for it to be credible.Quirk even questions the friendship of Newman and Redford at one point, almost mocking the statement Redford released upon Newman's death, claiming they really weren't that close.Yet earlier in the book he claims Redford moved closer to Newman after his divorce because of the friendship. Make up your mind, Quirk. If you've read anything at all on Newman and Redford - and not books mind you, but rather interviews with them each where they were questioned about the other - they spoke with great love and admiration of each other and their friendship - even sharing inside pranks and jokes they played on each other from afar over the years.If you believe what Quirk would have you - Newman and Woodward really had no friends, no loyalties, and no love of any real kind in their lives.Good God. Really?

Don't waste your money on this book.I don't care who Quick interviewed (and many he refuses to name, which in all cases, I then scream "fabricated" and "subjective"),the book doesn't read believable, it counters itself at different periods, and it reeks of personal judgement and opinion.For a biography?No thanks.

smear job
This book is awful, and unreadable for its unrelenting assault on Newman's character, paragraph after paragraph - it becomes irritating, laughable almost.And Quirk's preoccupation with homosexuality and all things homoerotic is tiring, absurd and just plain stupid.Again, an irritating read - I can think of no better word.Save your money.

Don't buy it.Don't read it.
I received this book as a gift, after wanting to read about Paul Newman for a long time.I greatly admire Paul Newman, not only for his acting, but for the humanitarian work he does through Newman's products.However, this book is just plain awful.I've read many movie star biographies (and autobiographies), and this is the worst, by far.The author is clearly biased against Joanne Woodward, and makes catty remarks about her throughout the entire book.He doesn't state his sources, and it seems like most of the quoted statements are negative (for Paul AND Joanne). I have a feeling that the author is one that simply cranks out star biographies for the buck, writing with a preconceived notion of his subject, not taking the time or effort to really investigate.It's also very badly written.This book is garbage and I can't even bring myself to finish it.Time to find another biography of Newman to read - hopefully there is a better one out there!

A top pick for biography collections with a focus on the silver screen
From countless Hollywood films to charitable popcorn, there's a reason Paul Newman is regarded as a legend. "Paul Newman: A Life" is a biography of this legendary individual who for the better part of a century captivated audiences around the world. Lawrence Quirk tells the mans story which isn't always as glorious as Hollywood would make it out to be and tells a story of a man who sought acceptance from his father and was a man like any other. "Paul Newman" presents a very human view of the film icon, a top pick for biography collections with a focus on the silver screen. ... Read more