An insightful and funny look at some of the impossible questions Alan Alda has asked himself over the years: What do I value? What, exactly, is the good life? (And what does that even mean?) Picking up where his bestselling memoir left off–having been saved by emergency surgery after nearly dying on a mountaintop in Chile–Alda finds himself not only glad to be alive but searching for a way to … searching for a way to squeeze the most juice out of his new life. Looking for a sense of meaning that would make this extra time count, he listens in on things he’s heard himself saying in private and in public at critical points in his life–from the turbulence of the sixties, to his first Broadway show, to the birth of his children, to the ache of September 11, and beyond. Reflecting on the transitions in his life and in all our lives, he notices that “doorways are where the truth is told,” and wonders if there’s one thing–art, activism, family, money, fame–that could lead to a “life of meaning.”
In a book that is candid, wise, and as questioning as it is incisive, Alda amuses and moves us with his unique and hilarious meditations on questions great and small. Things I Overheard While Talking to Myself is another superb Alan Alda performance, as inspiring and entertaining as the man himself.
Praise for Things I Overheard While Talking to Myself
“Engagingly thoughtful and thought-provoking . . . [Alan Alda] candidly shares many stories of his life, so easily and wittily you can hear him speak as you read.”
–Sydney Sun Herald
“Alda is chatty, easygoing and humble, rather like a Mr. Rogers for grownups. His words of inspiration would be a perfect gift for a college grad or for anyone facing major life changes.”
–Publishers Weekly (starred review)
“Smart, engaged, funny and observant.”
–San Antonio Express-News
more
A wonderful, wise, and easily read book. I bought a second Alda book after finishing it.
Was an enjoyable read
I basically liked the mind of Alda and his take on lots of things. Certainly he is a deep minded person. I was, I guess, looking for his insight into his roles, especially the one in MASH. i did feel he got a bit preachy and boring at times. But overall, a good read and worth my time.
A disappointment. Alda’s writing was preachy & not much fun to read. Well meant surely but did not hold my interest long.
For me, and I’m stressing that – it was very pretentious which is something I never thought I would say about Alan Alda! He seems to be bragging all the time about people he knows, how smart he is and accomplished in so many different subjects and I was just bored stupid listeneing (well reading) all the speeches he’d done ! Sorry, Mr Alda but I …
Maybe its just dated, but I could only read about half of the book, before I got terribly bored. I love Mr. Alda, but found this book disappointing.
Alan’s view point is very interesting and one can learn from his experiences. I enjoyed the book very much!
I loved this book . for the first half I couldn’t read it fast enough. Alda is a common man’s philosopher. His thought and reasoning are the kind you wish everyone had.
I learned about Alda’s career and his wisdom that he learned from an acting career. The book needs better editing, however, because certain parts go on too long. Still, a good read by a remarkable man.
Alan Alda is a paragon of straightforwardness, high-mindedness, and just plain good sense. I’ve read his other books, which help to underline what a fantastically good, good guy he is . He is a humble teacher, dedicated to that which is best for an educated and responsible society. He is a family man, worried about his grandkids crossing the road …
Alan Alda does a pretty good job of recapping some of his life’s experiences. I thought he was a little too philosophical at times in giving his comments on world happenings. I would have preferred to have read more about his experiences in movies and the TV show Mash. All in all I enjoyed the book .
Great story about and by Alan Alda.
A good read, occasionally tiresome. I admire Mr. Alda’s depth of insight and commitment to higher principles.
I’ve been in love with Alan Alda since MASH. He is a wonderful spirit, and a national treasure. PLEASE read this book!!
Alan Alda has a great way with words and weaves the story of his life together with speeches he was asked to make (especially at graduations). He gives us an idea of what in his life made him say what he did to his audiences. Well written, easy to read, and very informative.
I bought this book simply because I like Alan Alda. Reading his books feels like a good visit with someone who thinks in interesting and engaging ways. He does just that here in Things I overheard While Talking to Myself. And though the title says Alan Alda was talking to himself, he has much to say to others. I enjoyed spending time with …
This is NOT a memoir of Alda’s life however it relates things he said to other people throughout his life. Not what I expected. You get to read all his speeches that he has given throughout his life.
Alan Alda has a very charming way of resenting his adventures and ideas.
This book is much like the actor himself.