Dear Reader,
I’ve avoided writing a book until now because I’m really pretty average and I didn’t think anyone would care about my life.
I’m still a little uncomfortable, but I finally agreed, because people I trust persuaded me you might be interested, and because I realized it would allow me to acknowledge those who’ve helped me along the way, from friends and family to the actors, directors, writers, and crew members I’ve worked with over the years.
I’ll also talk about my childhood, try to clear up some misconceptions, and maybe even settle a score or two.
I don’t like to brag on myself, and I won’t start now, but I will ask people who know me to weigh in, for better or worse.
Above all, I want you to know I have no regrets. Here’s this dumb kid from Oklahoma, raised during the Depression, comes to Hollywood, get a career, becomes famous, makes some money, has a wonderful family . . . what would I change? Nothing. I wouldn’t change a thing.
Yours Truly,
James Garner
Copyright © 2011 by MGB Productions, Inc.
There’s more to James Garner than The Rockford Files. Garner left an abusive home at 14, and went on to become Oklahoma’s first Korean-War draftee, earning two Purple Hearts for his injuries. After returning to the U.S., Garner settled in Los Angeles and began his ascent to Hollywood stardom.
In The Garner Files, the actor recalls his life through a wealth of anecdotes: “trying to decipher” William Wyler with Audrey Hepburn and Shirley MacLaine; breaking Doris Day’s ribs; having a “heart-to-heart and eyeball-to-eyeball” with Steve McQueen and much more.
Featuring an Introduction by Julie Andrews, whose work with Garner includes Victor/Victoria, this rich biography opens a window on one of Hollywood’s most fascinating lives.
Hardcover : 288 pages
Publisher: Simon And Schuster, Inc. ( November 01, 2011 )
Item #: 13-484647
ISBN: 9781451642605
Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 8.25 x 0.72inches
Product Weight: 14.0 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)

Reviewer: Janice T
Have always been a fan..........until I read the book. Just another "I had a bad childhood, Christians are awful, Conservatives are idiots, and pot is good" celebrity book. Why celebrities have to write things guaranteed to insult many people that are or were fans is beyond me. A lot of us Conservative Christians helped make Mr. Garner what he is today by watching his shows and paying money to see his movies. Some of the stories about Hollywood were interesting and nostalgic, but I'm sure I could have found a better use of my money. Such a disappointment.
Reviewer: Karen
I too lived in Norman Oklahoma,therefore could relate some of his stories and also when he came to town for the dedication of his statue. He related the history of Norman and Oklahoma accurately and that, of course, warmed my heart.
He still seems to be a down to earth person,but I only wish he could find God in his heart. He life would be so much happier!
Reviewer: Jean K
Garner nearly always played likable characters and the book shows us that he is very much like some of those. He is straightforward and honest in his opinions and stories with no apologies and no excuses. Well worth the read.
Reviewer: Pat
Because we have always liked him in everything he did, and because he has always been so down to earth, the book was enjoyable and his personality shines through. The most interesting part is how he fought the system and won.!
Reviewer: Jay W
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