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Gareth Owen

    Gareth Owen is primarily known for his writing on film, possessing expertise in studio history and the mechanics of filmmaking. His work delves into the industry's inner workings, exploring pivotal moments and figures that have shaped cinema. Owen's style is engaging, offering an insider's perspective on the craft and culture of the movies. His deep passion for film, particularly the James Bond phenomenon and British comedies, shines through, providing readers with a unique lens on these beloved genres.

    J. Arthur Rank - The Rise and Fall of His Film Empire (hardback)
    The Price of Fame: The Biography of Dennis Price
    The Pinewood story
    When the Music's Over
    The Shepperton Story: The History of the World-Famous Film Studio
    Raising an Eyebrow
    • 2022

      J. Arthur Rank's journey from a humble background to becoming a prominent film mogul is both fascinating and unexpected. The book explores his significant impact on the British film industry, highlighting his unique approach to filmmaking and his role in promoting British cinema during a transformative period. Through his story, readers gain insight into the challenges he faced and the innovations he introduced, making him a key figure in the entertainment world.

      J. Arthur Rank - The Rise and Fall of His Film Empire (hardback)
    • 2022

      Exploring the life of J. Arthur Rank, this biography delves into the journey of an unexpected titan of the film industry. It highlights his rise from humble beginnings to becoming a major player in cinema, revealing the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way. The narrative captures his influence on British filmmaking and his unique approach to the industry, offering insights into his legacy and the cultural impact he made during his reign as a film mogul.

      J. Arthur Rank - The Rise and Fall of His Film Empire
    • 2022

      A gritty and moving personal account of the struggle to provide humanitarian relief during Operation Restore Hope in war-torn Somalia.

      When the Music's Over
    • 2020

      Raising an Eyebrow

      • 224 pages
      • 8 hours of reading

      A unique insight into life with Sir Roger Moore - written by his PA, his co-author, his onstage co-star, and his confidant. Now in paperback. Having taken on the role of Roger Moore's executive assistant in 2002, Gareth Owen became the right-hand man to an icon, as well as his co-author, onstage co-star and confidant. Gareth was faithfully at Roger's side for fifteen years until his passing in 2017. In this affectionate and amusing book, the author recounts his times with Roger Moore and gives a unique and rare insight into life with one of the world's most beloved actors. Roger always said, 'Gareth knows me better than I know myself.' For all his celebrity, Roger Moore was quite reserved. In interviews he rarely spoke about himself, much preferring to tell fun tales about others. But his trusted sidekick was with him throughout his worldwide travels, his UK stage shows, his writing process and his book tours, as he received his Knighthood, and as he rubbed shoulders with the rich and famous. There were genuinely hilarious, heartfelt and extraordinary moments to be captured and Gareth Owen was there to share them all.

      Raising an Eyebrow
    • 2019

      Norman Smith's Hobbies

      • 332 pages
      • 12 hours of reading

      The story revolves around Norman Smith, whose impulsive hobbies lead him into unexpected trouble and an investigation. As he navigates his quirky interactions, readers are left questioning the reality of the characters he encounters—are they real or products of the author's imagination? Central to the narrative is his long-suffering wife, Mrs. G, whose support is crucial as Norman grapples with the chaos of his choices and the consequences that follow. The book blends humor and introspection, exploring the complexities of relationships and identity.

      Norman Smith's Hobbies
    • 2018

      The first detailed and in-depth researched biography of the acclaimed British actor Dennis Price, charting his rise to fame, his most famous roles, his battle with depression, alcohol and the tax man ... and how he outshone everything and everyone around him.

      The Price of Fame: The Biography of Dennis Price
    • 2018

      Who is Norman Smith and what happens when a very conservative city accountant suddenly finds his holiday plans in South Africa with his long-suffering wife, Mrs G, made uncomfortably complicated by the fact that he has been 'persuaded' to act on behalf of MI6 whilst overseas, gathering information and delivering a mysterious envelope to contacts within the country? Written in first person, and taking the form of a report to the Director of MI6, the story takes the unlikely undercover agent Norman Smith through a series of adventures whereby he discovers some uncomfortable truths about the nature of South African society and its politics. He also comes across some unusual characters that seem drawn to him and know more about his mission than he does.

      Norman Smith's Sojourn
    • 2013

      Icarus by Mobile

      Selected poems by Gareth Owen

      • 88 pages
      • 4 hours of reading

      The book features a collection of poems that showcase Gareth Owen's unique voice and style. Celebrated by poet Patric Dickinson, the work delves into themes of human experience and emotion, reflecting Owen's keen observations and lyrical prowess. Each poem invites readers to explore profound insights, making it a significant contribution to contemporary poetry.

      Icarus by Mobile
    • 2011

      Rolling

      • 16 pages
      • 1 hour of reading

      Follow a group of children as they climb to the top of a hill and race each other to the bottom by rolling in this fun rhyming poem - written by acclaimed poet Gareth Owen, and accompanied by the colourful illustrations of Vicky Fieldhouse.

      Rolling
    • 2011

      Gathering in the Days

      • 352 pages
      • 13 hours of reading

      This wonderfully emotive collection of poems by award-winning poet Gareth Owen explores both the humorous and more serious elements of childhood, and is filled with beautiful illustrations by much-loved illustrator Peter Bailey

      Gathering in the Days