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 · 3,300 ratings  · 437 reviews

Outset your review of I Shouldn't Even Be Doing This!: And Other Things That Strike Me equally Funny

Bob Newhart's trademark dry sense of humor and hesitant mannerisms are all over this book and I'Yard LOVING It!

The comedian-turned-thespian has been a favorite of mine ever since I was a kid. Granted, his older fans will give me a Newhart-esque curmudgeonly stare with a telling clearing of the throat when I say it was the 80s prove, not the 70s 1 that got me hooked. Egads, I can't even imagine what fans of his before comedy albums must think of me!

I gave I Shouldn't Even Be Doing This! just 3 stars because i

Bob Newhart's trademark dry humor and hesitant mannerisms are all over this volume and I'M LOVING IT!

The comedian-turned-actor has been a favorite of mine e'er since I was a child. Granted, his older fans will give me a Newhart-esque curmudgeonly stare with a telling clearing of the throat when I say it was the 80s bear witness, not the 70s one that got me hooked. Egads, I can't even imagine what fans of his earlier comedy albums must recollect of me!

I gave I Shouldn't Fifty-fifty Exist Doing This! only 3 stars considering it's a sketchy, piecemeal volume of reminiscences, some of which are amend than others. Overall it's an enjoyable read - hearing nearly his life, friendship with comedian friend Don Rickles, and whatnot - but as a memoir it's nothing special.

Not bad for fans, not and so much for the rest of you lot. And when I say "the rest of yous," yeah, I am proverb it with distain...What is wrong with you people?!

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Having grown upwardly laughing with Bob Newhart, from the 60s records and through two series, this was a thoroughly enjoyable audiobook. As well, i degree of separation through a friend who is an histrion, and I live in Chicago — these also contributed to my feel. I retrieve hearing his voice in audio is the right fashion to experience this memoir.

I am a long time fan of Bob Newhart. The human being's "manner" of comedy has always "cracked me upwards". I don't know when I first heard him, information technology had to be in the 1950s on Television receiver... But I simply tin can't recall.

In this short (sound) memorie he goes over the groundwork of his comedy. I mean permit's face up it. Who would have thought that a guy talking into an imaginary (or sometimes prop) telephone could exist that funny. He's played everything from a submarine captain to Abraham Lincoln's publicist.

And you not only get thursday

I am a long fourth dimension fan of Bob Newhart. The human's "style" of one-act has always "cracked me up". I don't know when I first heard him, it had to be in the 1950s on TV... Simply I but can't call back.

In this short (sound) memorie he goes over the background of his comedy. I mean allow'southward face it. Who would take thought that a guy talking into an imaginary (or sometimes prop) telephone could be that funny. He'due south played everything from a submarine captain to Abraham Lincoln's publicist.

And yous not simply become the stories of how some of it came about, how his career developed simply likewise some of the comedy itself.

While non so much a wall to wall "laugh-fest" as What's So Funny?: My Hilarious Life information technology is interesting and has some proficient laughs.

Some other I can recommend.

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Aug 04, 2009 Peter rated it actually liked it

Recommends it for: Anyone with a sense of sense of humor!

Bob Newhart is a very funny guy. And he's written a very funny book.

I picked this up under odd circumstances; in the used book store next to the Boothbay Public Library. The funny thing was that I institute it but seconds after finding a copy of Dr Katz's Me at a Glance. What'southward the connectedness? I used to watch Dr. Katz, Professional Therapist and The Bob Newhart Show (the i where Bob plays a psychologist) with a friend back in the 1990s. Nosotros loved those shows!

Information technology'southward a overnice, light read; Bob recounts southward

Bob Newhart is a very funny guy. And he'south written a very funny volume.

I picked this up under odd circumstances; in the used book store next to the Boothbay Public Library. The funny thing was that I found information technology only seconds after finding a re-create of Dr Katz'southward Me at a Glance. What's the connectedness? I used to watch Dr. Katz, Professional Therapist and The Bob Newhart Testify (the one where Bob plays a psychologist) with a friend back in the 1990s. We loved those shows!

It'south a overnice, light read; Bob recounts some of his funniest bits and talks about his life and TV shows. The thing that surprised me virtually was that Don Adams (of Get Smart!) stole some of Bob's material. Patently he was known for doing that sort of affair.

But the book isn't a tell-all or revenge volume. It's just a good, light, enjoyable read with a lot of laughs. Cheers, Bob!

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I'm guessing the audio version with Newhart doing the reading is preferable to the book. Afterward all, Newhart'southward unique delivery is at least half of what makes him funny. I'g guessing the sound version with Newhart doing the reading is preferable to the volume. Later all, Newhart's unique commitment is at to the lowest degree half of what makes him funny. ...more

Feb 28, 2013 Daniél Minton rated information technology really liked it

I laughed from the first page of this book when Bob talks about culling titles. He says, "I was told by my editor that titles sell books, so the first titles I proposed was A Slimmer You in Iii Weeks. That would have been an instant best seller because diet books sell like crazy."

This was a quick, pleasant read about Bob, his career, his jokes, and a lilliputian near his life. He includes the text of many of his full routines. I was familiar with a bunch of them, and very much enjoyed reading

I laughed from the first page of this book when Bob talks about alternative titles. He says, "I was told past my editor that titles sell books, so the first titles I proposed was A Slimmer You in Three Weeks. That would take been an instant all-time seller because nutrition books sell like crazy."

This was a quick, pleasant read about Bob, his career, his jokes, and a little about his life. He includes the text of many of his full routines. I was familiar with a bunch of them, and very much enjoyed reading them. I could hear his vox clearly in all of the routines, especially the ones I'd heard earlier.

I do wish I had listened to this one instead of reading it. I usually mind to memoirs written past performers. I'k non the biggest audiobook lover, but performer memoirs are the exception. I bought this when information technology was 99 cents for the Kindle book, but I regret it at present, even though it was a great deal. I just call up his delivery would accept sealed the deal.

I may take given this book only 3 stars, 'cause as far every bit memoirs go, it's not the best. If you aren't a big fan of Bob Newhart, you lot should probably give it a pass. Notwithstanding, I am a large fan of Bob Newhart, and the book had me laughing all the way through. I was obsessed with Newhart (the show...you know, "Hi, I'yard Larry. This is my brother Darrell. This is my other brother Darrell.") when I was 8 or so years old. I know, non your typical child show, but I was kind of a weirdo. I loved dry humor when I was a kid. I started watching SNL when I was v when I'd stay the dark with my grandma, and it was one of my favorite shows.

And then, Bob Newhart didn't get super personal. I'chiliad actually glad he didn't get as well introspective. I observe that highly annoying in a memoir (ahem, Rob Lowe), merely he did share some parts of his life. I wish he'd talked more about what it was like to be a dad, and what his kids were like. Simply I gauge that wasn't what the book was about. It was more about his career. I exercise love that he gave his married woman credit where credit was due. For instance, the brilliant and famous finale of Newhart was her idea.

Sorry this review is so disjointed. Information technology'southward late, and I'yard tired. I might come back and edit it later.

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Thank you Bob Newhart.
I listened to your book on CD, and the dead pan commitment of the jokes had me laughing every bit I drove to work in -24 degree weather in MN. At t time where the weather was dangerous and people in full general were down, yous gave me a elevator on the way to work.
Thank you Bob Newhart.
I shared yous jokes with others and fabricated them laugh at a time when times were financially tight and stress was at a personal loftier.
Thank you Bob Newhart.
When I came back from my desk after having a meeting about Thank you Bob Newhart.
I listened to your volume on CD, and the dead pan delivery of the jokes had me laughing as I collection to work in -24 caste weather in MN. At t time where the weather was dangerous and people in full general were downwardly, y'all gave me a elevator on the way to work.
Thanks Bob Newhart.
I shared you jokes with others and made them express joy at a time when times were financially tight and stress was at a personal high.
Cheers Bob Newhart.
When I came back from my desk later on having a meeting nigh ethics at piece of work that no one saw coming, your jokes fabricated me smile at a time when I didn't know if I could again sitting in that chair.
Thank you Bob Newhart.
You let the reader in on how yous got to where you are, who helped you along the way and the great friend you have in Don Rickles. I institute I had a very similar background as you, and you followed your dream. This nudges me closer to fulfilling mine.
Thank yous Bob Newhart for always making me laugh. I promise to take many more laughs with yous in the years to come up.
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Aug 01, 2015 Joe rated it information technology was amazing

Bob Newhart is the best! If y'all don't listen to this as an audiobook you're doing yourself a groovy disservice considering and then much of his humor is in his delivery. He even goes over this in the book. It's a stammer non a stutter and it'southward existent, not an affectation.

This book is role memoir, function greatest hits. Newhart tells stories of his personal and professional person life all the while interspersing some of his more famous bits (i.e. King Kong/Night Watchman and Submarine Commander to proper name a few).

I'k embar

Bob Newhart is the best! If you don't mind to this equally an audiobook you're doing yourself a groovy disservice because so much of his humor is in his delivery. He even goes over this in the book. It'due south a stammer not a stutter and it's real, non an arrayal.

This book is part memoir, part greatest hits. Newhart tells stories of his personal and professional life all the while interspersing some of his more famous $.25 (i.east. King Kong/Dark Watchman and Submarine Commander to name a few).

I'm embarrassed to say I never watched any of his shows simply take always been a huge fan of his one-act albums. After reading this, I'k tempted to go back and practise a rock block of his shows. A truly delightful read.

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November 15, 2010 David rated it really liked it

Breezy, anecdote-driven memoir by a very funny (IMO) guy. Some parts dragged (east.one thousand., the chapter on how much he loves to play golf game, some of the many instances in which he and his wife went out to dinner with Don Rickles and his wife.......), only for the most part it's readable and amusing. I remember his hitting Tv shows well and fondly, and I knew he'd been a successful touring standup comedian forever, just until reading this track I'd lost runway of how huge comedy albums used to exist. Fun quiz you ca Breezy, chestnut-driven memoir by a very funny (IMO) guy. Some parts dragged (e.g., the affiliate on how much he loves to play golf game, some of the many instances in which he and his wife went out to dinner with Don Rickles and his wife.......), merely for the about part it'due south readable and amusing. I recall his hitting TV shows well and fondly, and I knew he'd been a successful touring standup comedian forever, simply until reading this rail I'd lost track of how huge comedy albums used to be. Fun quiz y'all can try out on people:

Q: Which sold more than albums during the 1960's (so, non counting afterward sales of things made in the 60's) -- The Button Down Mind of Bob Newhart, or any album past the Beatles?

A: Newhart for the win.......

Very hard for me to motion picture at this bespeak buying a one-act anthology and listening more once to a person I tin can't meet doing a standup routine, but I approximate in an earlier generation it was all the rage.

One ascertainment I could chronicle to readily, having been a instructor for 21 years..........he said he has had to cut his "Abe Lincoln" routine in one-half to conform audiences' shorter attention spans these days.

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Dec 19, 2016 Wayland Smith rated it really liked it

I admit I'thou non a huge fan of Mr. Newhart's television set shows, but I've always loved his stand upward. "The Driving Teacher" is i of my favorite bits, and I don't know how many times I've listened to information technology. It's vivid. When I saw he had an autobiography out, I figured I'd requite it a whirl, and I'm very glad I did.

He covers his career in various segments, his life growing up in Chicago and subsequently, and has some of his routines included. There are tales of a start comic, a ascent star, coming together the

I acknowledge I'm non a huge fan of Mr. Newhart'due south tv shows, just I've always loved his stand upward. "The Driving Instructor" is one of my favorite $.25, and I don't know how many times I've listened to it. Information technology'south brilliant. When I saw he had an autobiography out, I figured I'd give it a whirl, and I'thousand very glad I did.

He covers his career in various segments, his life growing up in Chicago and later on, and has some of his routines included. At that place are tales of a beginning comic, a rising star, coming together the rich and famous, and what making movies is like, among other things, all told with his wonderfully understated sense of humour. He doesn't make himself sound perfect, admitting to such vices as drinking a scrap more than he should and his battle with quitting smoking (which diverts into his "Introduction of Tobacco" bit, another classic).

I was thoroughly entertained. I actually enjoyed getting to know this legendary comedian a chip better, and larn more of his material. If you enjoy comedy or take any interest in prove biz in general or Bob Newhart in particular, read this.

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May 23, 2013 William B. rated it really liked it

This was a prissy volume. Not really an insightful volume about Bob Newhart and what he thinks deeply about life, more of a comedy. I liked the book. I wanted to dear information technology because I like Bob Newhart, but information technology missed something. He didn't reflect much on his childhood, but did go into detail about how he got into one-act. He focuses particularly on his friendship with Don Rickles. He puts many of his comedy bits from the 'Button Downwards Mind' album, but when you read them in print, it misses something. Made me wa This was a squeamish book. Non actually an insightful book nigh Bob Newhart and what he thinks deeply about life, more of a comedy. I liked the volume. I wanted to love it considering I like Bob Newhart, but information technology missed something. He didn't reflect much on his childhood, but did become into detail about how he got into comedy. He focuses peculiarly on his friendship with Don Rickles. He puts many of his comedy bits from the 'Button Down Heed' album, but when you read them in print, it misses something. Made me desire to get the albums. He commented in passing on the slights and his dislike of some other comedians, which was interesting. I'd recommend this book and it's a quick read. It's a overnice volume. Not a great one, merely a expert volume. ...more than

Light and fun autobiography of one of my favorite comedians. Newhart comes off as honest and likable--a refreshing reminder that comedians don't have to exist super nasty to be excellent at their art. Starts a little slow. Non sure why he even included an introduction. From the intro, on, it'south a quick, pleasant read. Light and fun autobiography of one of my favorite comedians. Newhart comes off equally honest and likable--a refreshing reminder that comedians don't take to be super nasty to be excellent at their art. Starts a footling slow. Not sure why he even included an introduction. From the intro, on, information technology'southward a quick, pleasant read. ...more

Nov 30, 2013 KrisTina rated information technology actually liked it

Listened to this driving to and dorsum from St. George. Hilarious I've ever been a fan of Bob Newhart - I find his dry out humor pretty entertaining - this book, read by him, was a little slow in places and I would have preferred if he would take merely played some of the Johnny Carson interviews that he read the back and forth of - but withal - a great read/heed. Listened to this driving to and back from St. George. Hilarious I've always been a fan of Bob Newhart - I find his dry humour pretty entertaining - this book, read by him, was a little wearisome in places and I would have preferred if he would have just played some of the Johnny Carson interviews that he read the back and forth of - but nevertheless - a great read/listen. ...more

I really listened to this volume on CD read by Bob Newhart. That was a real treat. Information technology is funny and insightful. You acquire a lot about his early on years. A good read, but a better heed.

April 07, 2020 Mike Kowis rated it actually liked it

If you lot are a FAN of Bob Newhart, you will savor this book!

I all the same recall watching Bob's TV series and frequent invitee host appearances on the This night Show back in the day and always enjoyed his witty, dry sense of humour. Luckily, that same personality comes through in this book. The only reason I didn't give it v stars is b/c there were a few places in the book that seemed dry/unfunny, but most of it was very interesting and kept me turning pages. I thoroughly enjoyed the behind-the-scenes stuff

If yous are a FAN of Bob Newhart, you will enjoy this book!

I notwithstanding recall watching Bob's Boob tube series and frequent guest host appearances on the Tonight Bear witness back in the day and always enjoyed his witty, dry sense of sense of humor. Luckily, that same personality comes through in this volume. The merely reason I didn't give it v stars is b/c there were a few places in the book that seemed dry/unfunny, but almost of it was very interesting and kept me turning pages. I thoroughly enjoyed the behind-the-scenes stuff, such as the story about Buddy Hackett introducing him to his wife, and his close friendships with Don Rickles, Johnny Carson, etc. He also included personal stories nigh balancing his hectic road schedule with his family unit life (which is very admirable), how his wife came up with the final episode of his second Bob Newhart TV show (but brilliant!), etc. Overall, I give it 2 thumbs upward and retrieve it is a "must read" if you are a Bob Newhart fan (similar me)!

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I dearest, love, dear Bob Newhart, but the book wasn't bully. Information technology was proficient and crossed the okay edge, but it wasn't great. I'm not sure what I expected, but I think it was more than of a narrative of life and less of his comedy bits. They were good, but information technology'due south not why I bought the volume. Okay, maybe this is me existence cranky. I've read a lot of biographies and automobile biographies and books that aren't biographical but are written by the subject - not sure where this one fits.

Anyhow, I'm non distressing I read it. I

I love, love, love Bob Newhart, but the book wasn't peachy. It was skilful and crossed the okay border, simply information technology wasn't dandy. I'm not certain what I expected, just I think it was more of a narrative of life and less of his comedy bits. They were good, only it's not why I bought the book. Okay, maybe this is me beingness cranky. I've read a lot of biographies and machine biographies and books that aren't biographical simply are written by the subject - not sure where this one fits.

Anyhow, I'm not sorry I read it. It but didn't accident me away.

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Sep 06, 2020 Geoffrey rated it really liked it

At i point Newhart breaks downwards Laurel & Hardy's comedy in a throwaway line: They would tell yous what they were going to practise, exercise it, then explain information technology.

At the determination of the autobiography is three pages probably contributed past an editor that summarize the facts presented while leaving out all anecdotal data. In a life story that proper noun dropped Tom Hanks while non mentioning Peter Scolari - I couldn't assistance just smile at the revelation that the 2d Librarian film would exist premiering on TNT

At ane bespeak Newhart breaks downwards Laurel & Hardy'southward one-act in a throwaway line: They would tell yous what they were going to do, do it, so explicate it.

At the conclusion of the autobiography is three pages probably contributed by an editor that summarize the facts presented while leaving out all anecdotal information. In a life story that name dropped Tom Hanks while not mentioning Peter Scolari - I couldn't help but grinning at the revelation that the second Librarian film would exist premiering on TNT in December 2006.

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Hello Bob! Bob Newhart has always been ane of my favorite comedians, namely because of his second sitcom. His autobiography is a quick and entertaining read filled with how he wrote his material, anecdotes of getting into comedy, and all the funny things that happened along the fashion. For any fan, this is a great easy read.

Jul xi, 2018 Lisa rated it really liked it

Maybe 3.five stars - there are many amusing stories and Bob Newhart seems every bit likeable in existent life every bit he does on Boob tube. I think he would be a fun neighbor. Simply there doesn't seem to exist whatsoever organizational structure and, honestly, his life doesn't seem that exciting. By the terminal few chapters, I felt that I was reading the same stories over and over.

Jun 04, 2020 Gary Siebert rated it really liked it

Audiobook narrated past comedian/actor Bob Newhart. Very enjoyable, funny book, with equal parts histrion's memoir and jokes from his routines. Audiobook narrated by comedian/actor Bob Newhart. Very enjoyable, funny book, with equal parts actor'southward memoir and jokes from his routines. ...more

It pains me to say this considering, similar everyone else, I dear Bob Newhart, but this book is pretty mediocre. Newhart tells the story of how he became a successful comedian (this is probably the well-nigh interesting function of the book, simply he told information technology much improve on Conan's O'Brien'south podcast), he rehashes onetime comedy routines (which are not as skilful on paper as they are when he actually delivers them), and he tells a series of jokes and anecdotes that are sometimes amusing and sometimes not so amusing. It pains me to say this because, like everyone else, I dearest Bob Newhart, but this volume is pretty mediocre. Newhart tells the story of how he became a successful comedian (this is probably the most interesting part of the book, but he told it much better on Conan's O'Brien'due south podcast), he rehashes old one-act routines (which are non as good on paper every bit they are when he really delivers them), and he tells a serial of jokes and anecdotes that are sometimes amusing and sometimes not so amusing. ...more

A timeline of anecdotes from his life in comedy. The paragraphs volition sometimes accept no continuity and jump around a bit with no clear segue. Ultimately, any fan of the comedy of the 50s and 60s (especially Bob's) volition love the stories. An easy bedtime read. 3.5 stars. A timeline of anecdotes from his life in one-act. The paragraphs will sometimes have no continuity and jump around a scrap with no articulate segue. Ultimately, any fan of the comedy of the 50s and 60s (especially Bob'south) will love the stories. An easy bedtime read. 3.5 stars. ...more than

Oct 25, 2018 Gary rated information technology information technology was amazing

I thoroughly enjoyed this. His boob tube shows were superb; many times, they were the only goggle box shows I watched. If you like his humor, you lot savor this.

Jul 31, 2010 Rebekkila rated it really liked it

The first book always from an icon of American comedy -- a hilarious combination of stories from his career and observations nigh lifeThat falter. Those basset-hound eyes. That bone-dry wit. There has never been another comedian like Bob Newhart. His comedy albums, movies, and 2 hit television series take made him a national treasure and placed him firmly in the pantheon of comedy legends. Who else has a drinking game named after him? And now, at final, Newhart puts his bright and hysterical The first book ever from an icon of American comedy -- a hilarious combination of stories from his career and observations almost lifeThat stammer. Those basset-hound eyes. That os-dry out wit. There has never been another comedian similar Bob Newhart. His comedy albums, movies, and ii hit telly series have made him a national treasure and placed him firmly in the pantheon of comedy legends. Who else has a drinking game named subsequently him? And now, at last, Newhart puts his brilliant and hysterical world view on newspaper.Never a punch-line comic, always more than of a storyteller, he tells anecdotes from throughout his life and career, including his beginnings as an accountant and the groundbreaking success of his comedy albums and The Bob Newhart Show and Newhart, which gave him fifteen years on primetime television. And he also gives his wry, comedic twist to a multitude of topics, including golf, drinking, and family holidays.Today, Newhart appears on Desperate Housewives, in hitting movies such as Elf, and in theaters around the country. Reruns of his shows air constantly on Nick at Nite -- have recently been released with cracking success for the first time e'er on DVD. With this book, Bob Newhart gives his millions of fans a kickoff ever opportunity to sample his unique brand of humor -- including excerpts from some of his archetype routines -- on the printed page.Bob Newhart is one of America'southward best-loved comedians. His career highlights include The Bob Newhart Show, Newhart, and ten major films including Catch-22, Legally Blonde ii, and Elf. He guest hosted The This evening Prove with Johnny Carson 87 times and morerecently earned an Emmy nomination for a guest-starring part on ER. He has been married to Virginia Quinn since 1963; they have four children and several grandchildren. He lives in Southern California.
I became a Bob Newhart fan in the 80's when I discovered the Newhart show. I love his deadpan delivery and was happy that he read this book on CD. I was very surprised to hear him say that he was a drinker and a smoker and best friends with Don Rickles. I estimate I projected his idiot box paradigm on his real person. Any Bob Newhart fan would enjoy this. This is headed dorsum to Bookczuk. ...more

Jun 27, 2014 Doug Warren rated it it was amazing

When I first read and reviewed this volume, I was only 22, so my first knowledge of Bob Newhart came from Nick-at-Nite when I was a kid, merely even and so I fell in love with his piece of work (although come up to remember of it, I doubt I got many of the jokes). That is why when I bought this book the first time I saw information technology on the shelf.

As I outset started reading it, the book would talk virtually different routines Newhart had done at the beginning of his career, and I immediately felt left out, because a lot of this stuf

When I first read and reviewed this book, I was only 22, and so my first knowledge of Bob Newhart came from Nick-at-Nite when I was a kid, but even then I savage in love with his work (although come to think of it, I doubtfulness I got many of the jokes). That is why when I bought this volume the first time I saw information technology on the shelf.

Every bit I get-go started reading it, the book would talk nigh different routines Newhart had washed at the first of his career, and I immediately felt left out, because a lot of this stuff I had never heard before. Yet, I was pleasantly relieved when reading further, the volume actually had part of the routine he was talking about. Further reading shows all the routines he mentions in the book are reprinted in the story then no i is left out of the joke.

This book is a groovy inspiration to anyone aspiring to piece of work in comedy, because Newhart shares how he went from working part-time jobs trying to break into a career at "existence funny" to becoming an award winning comic and one of the living legends in the comedy earth.

This book also shows a personal side of Newhart, one where yous feel y'all can really connect with him. The glimpses he gives into his personal life shows he really is a guy simply like the rest of united states. In one office, he talks about how i day he came in and his married woman was mad at him, he couldn't think of what he had washed, and it turns out she is mad at him because of something he did in a dream, and fifty-fifty though information technology was only a dream, it withal sounded like something he would practise. When I got to that role I fabricated my married woman read it and said, "Remember doing that concluding calendar week?"

All around, this is a nifty book. Many Hollywood types would flaunt their achievements or exaggerate their accomplishments, only not Newhart. He presents a straight forward, entertaining account of his career from the beginning up to today.

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Jan xi, 2013 Liz rated information technology actually liked it

I've been thinking that Bob Newhart is to me, what Bob Hope was to my parents – an older, well-established comedian. Something of an icon, a picayune bit of a cliché; once upon a time though, he was a young comic pioneering a new type of comedy. This is his memoir.

I didn't realize how much Bob Newhart had washed for the world of amusement. He was supposed to be an accountant & fifty-fifty went to college for it, only that didn't piece of work out. However, he did enjoy telling funny stories. Somehow, he managed

I've been thinking that Bob Newhart is to me, what Bob Hope was to my parents – an older, well-established comedian. Something of an icon, a niggling bit of a cliché; once upon a time though, he was a young comic pioneering a new type of comedy. This is his memoir.

I didn't realize how much Bob Newhart had washed for the world of amusement. He was supposed to be an accountant & fifty-fifty went to college for it, merely that didn't work out. Nonetheless, he did relish telling funny stories. Somehow, he managed to make a career out of information technology. Non that it was an easy road. He laments "There was a indicate at which I idea, 'You have really majorly screwed up. Await at what you have done to your life!'"

He talks a little well-nigh his growing up years, coming together his wife, and some about his children, merely this volume is primarily nearly the milestones of his career and how one-act has come up to him. He talks a little nearly what comedians do and their process which is substantially what I've always thought it was – pointing out the absurdities of every twenty-four hours life so other people can realize they aren't the only ones.

I loved this book and it sent me on a spree of tracking down his comedy albums and the DVDs of his shows, simply truthfully, a good deal of the text reminds me of an erstwhile man rambling on. He must exist forgiven this considering he is an sometime human; he'south 83 at the time of this review & he was in his late seventies when this book was published.

Bottom-line: I don't know who I would recommend this to among my friends & acquaintances considering reading celebrity memoirs isn't something about of them exercise. I commonly don't, only for some odd reason I've started. I certainly enjoyed this book immensely (especially the bit about a new security guard at the Empire State building the night King Kong decided to climb it).

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Nov 30, 2014 Scott rated information technology it was amazing

I've e'er been a fan of Bob Newhart, ever since getting hooked on The Bob Newhart Show back in the 1970s, and later on tracking down his Grammy-winning Button Downward Heed of Bob Newhart comedy album(southward). So...when this autobiography/memoir appeared back in 2006, I couldn't pass information technology up. Bob's book is a very entertaining read, filled with lots of recollections of loftier points in his one-act career, but after finishing it my commencement feeling is that the book didn't really add together up to much. It's very lig I've always been a fan of Bob Newhart, ever since getting hooked on The Bob Newhart Show back in the 1970s, and subsequently tracking downwardly his Grammy-winning Push Down Mind of Bob Newhart one-act album(due south). And then...when this autobiography/memoir appeared back in 2006, I couldn't pass information technology upwardly. Bob's book is a very entertaining read, filled with lots of recollections of loftier points in his comedy career, but after finishing it my starting time feeling is that the volume didn't really add upward to much. It's very lite-weight every bit biographies get, and even adequately weightless in comparison to other similar humor books. While a lot of page space is taken upwardly with his earlier comedy career in standup, and his first real breakthrough on television (The Bob Newhart Show), his subsequently hit, Newhart, although long-running and tremendously popular, only gets a few pages -- about the casting and about the unforgettable final episode. And his ii bottom-know shows, Bob, and George and Leo get less than a paragraph combined. The volume came out before he became involved in the recent series of made-for-Goggle box-movies about The Librarian, in which he has a major role. Overall, although this book is a fun read, I don't know that I'd recommend information technology for anyone simply a die-hard Bob Newhart fan, and fifty-fifty then if you're a large fan you've probably heard nearly of the stories he tells already, in his many talk-show appearances. On the other paw, it will bring back fond memories of seeing him chatting with Johnny Carson on the Tonight Show! Originally reviewed for my local library's website: http://world wide web.lincolnlibraries.org/depts... ...more than

Jan 03, 2014 Jackson rated information technology it was amazing

Bob Newhart was perhaps 1 of the most recognizable comics of the 20th Century. Detect the "was". It's not an understatement to say that the man is by his prime number, merely, as this book proves, he sure is nevertheless funny equally hell!

Being a large fan of Newhart and his piece of work, I was anxious to get my hands on a copy of this novel. The book itself recounts all of Bob's life beginning in windswept Chicago and ending in sunny Los Angeles. Bob'southward modesty definitely leaks through the pages and information technology becomes obvious ver

Bob Newhart was possibly one of the virtually recognizable comics of the 20th Century. Observe the "was". It's not an understatement to say that the man is past his prime, merely, equally this book proves, he sure is still funny as hell!

Being a big fan of Newhart and his work, I was broken-hearted to become my easily on a re-create of this novel. The book itself recounts all of Bob's life showtime in windswept Chicago and ending in sunny Los Angeles. Bob'south modesty definitely leaks through the pages and it becomes obvious very chop-chop that his ride to fame was certainly earned. While there are plenty of great moments at the beginning, the real gems come after on when Newhart goes into finer item regarding the cast and some of his favorite moments on his two hit shows. It's those tidbits that make a volume like this so enjoyable. The novel isn't lacking in cloth either. Newhart includes pages of his all-time routines and scripts that will leave a grin on your face anywhere you happen to be reading. I would've enjoyed more reflection on his more than contempo piece of work, but let's face information technology, he hasn't done much for the past xxx years or so.

What's ironic about this book title is it's totally false. He totally should have wrote this and I'm glad he did! At that place has never been a better time to do so, what, with his recent Emmy win. I even saw his stand up-up routine a few months agone, and mind y'all, to over ii,500 people. Continue it going Bob!

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Mar ten, 2019 Andrew rated it it was ok

Sometimes in life, you pick up a book because it's strangely sitting on the floor at the house you're staying at for a couple of weeks. There's no bookmark inside. It'due south only on the floor in the middle of the room. You're not sure why you pick it up, you don't know exactly why y'all're reading it. You accept vague memories of watching a sitcom starring the author. The memories are neither practiced nor bad. You realize the author had a cameo on the Simpsons. Yous read a few pages...then read a few more. Yo Sometimes in life, y'all option upwardly a book because information technology'due south strangely sitting on the floor at the house y'all're staying at for a couple of weeks. At that place's no bookmark inside. Information technology's simply on the floor in the heart of the room. You're not sure why you pick it up, you don't know exactly why you're reading it. You accept vague memories of watching a sitcom starring the author. The memories are neither good nor bad. You realize the writer had a cameo on the Simpsons. You read a few pages...then read a few more. You're non all that entertained, you merely continue going. Not certain why. Not sure if yous'll finish at whatever moment and do something else. Eventually, yous get to a point where you realize you don't have that much further to go to finish it. And then, you finish. You peradventure laughed out loud once the entire fourth dimension. Mostly, you think your grandparents would have enjoyed the book more than than y'all. You wish there'd been more personal stuff, like the author talking about how they e'er wanted their dad's approving. That was interesting. But, it simply lasted a couple lines. Somewhen, you lot put the volume down. Yous're finished. You're not really wiser most anything in regards to humanity or the globe. You merely move on with your twenty-four hour period. There'southward some snow outside that needs to be shoveled. And and so, y'all become shovel. ...more

Jan 26, 2009 Gayle rated it really liked it

Bob Newhart has been a fixture in comedy for lo these many years. From his best-selling comedy albums in the sixties, to his two long-running sit down-coms, to his current penchant for character roles in one-act movies, he has been ever-present on the Hollywood scene as the wry long-suffering accountant (or dentist or innkeeper).

In I Shouldn't Even Exist Doing This! (which is a punchline for a joke), Bob talks about his early on years, how he gave upwardly accounting for comedy, his marriage, and his career--all

Bob Newhart has been a fixture in comedy for lo these many years. From his best-selling comedy albums in the sixties, to his two long-running sit-coms, to his electric current penchant for character roles in comedy movies, he has been always-nowadays on the Hollywood scene as the wry long-suffering accountant (or dentist or innkeeper).

In I Shouldn't Fifty-fifty Be Doing This! (which is a punchline for a joke), Bob talks nearly his early years, how he gave up accounting for comedy, his marriage, and his career--all with his characteristic deadpan humor. I have e'er been a fan, then I enjoyed it very much.

Things I learned from this book:
1. Bob has been married for 40 years to the same woman, which I actually admire.
2. Bob had two top-selling comedy albums in the 1960s.
3. Bob is, underneath it all, a subversive person, and believes all comedians are.

I can recommend this volume to the Bob Newhart fan. And who isn't?

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George Robert "Bob" Newhart is an American stand up-up comedian and player. George Robert "Bob" Newhart is an American stand-upwards comedian and actor. ...more

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March is Women's History Month, dedicated to the study, observance, and celebration of the vital role of women in American history.   Some...

"I've plant that there's no existent comfort in success. There'south never time to slow down, sit back, and relax. But there did come a moment later in my career when I knew that I had truly made information technology as a comedian. After I presented Richard Pryor with the lifetime achievement award at the American One-act Awards, we were backstage posing for pictures. He looked up at me and said, "I stole your album." For a carve up 2nd, I couldn't believe what I was hearing. The smashing Richard Pryor stealing my material? I was honored and stunned at the same time. "In Peoria, I went into the record store and I put it nether my jacket and I walked out," he continued. "Richard, I get a quarter royalty on every album." With that, Richard Pryor pulled out a quarter and handed it to me. To accept your album stolen past Richard Pryor is quite an achievement." — 2 likes

"Hither are some of the towns I played last year: Carmel, Indiana; Hutchinson, Kansas; and Huntsville, Alabama. I even played Peoria. So why not limit my dates to easy-to-reach cities like Toronto, Chicago, and Reno? Easier still, why not just retire?" — 1 likes

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