David Niven Books

Color Niven photo front and back First Complete Unabridged hardcover Octopus Limited ed both books 1985 Dark Green Cloth binding

David Niven recalls his time in Hollywood during its heyday. He recounts stories and anecdotes of the stars, producers, directors, tycoons and oddballs, many of whom were his friends.

One of the bestselling memoirs of all time, David Niven's The Moon's a Balloon is an account of one of the most remarkable lives Hollywood has ever seen.Beginning with the tragic early loss of his aristocratic father, then regaling us with tales of school, army and wartime hi-jinx, Niven shows how, even as an unknown young man, he knew how to live the good life.But it is his astonishing stories of life in Hollywood and his accounts of working and partying with the legends of the silver screen - Lawrence Oliver, Vivien Leigh, Cary Grant, Elizabeth Taylor, James Stewart, Lauren Bacall, Marlene Dietrich, Noel Coward and dozens of others, while making some of the most acclaimed films of the last century - which turn David Niven's memoir into an outright masterpiece.An intimate, gossipy, heartfelt and above all charming account of life inside Hollywood's dream factory, The Moon is a Balloon is a classic to be read and enjoyed time and again..

The book explores the pervasive belief among Americans that media is biased, particularly against conservatives. David Niven challenges this perception by providing a thorough analysis of media coverage, emphasizing the need for a fair baseline to assess bias. By examining instances where political figures from different parties achieved similar outcomes, he evaluates how media portrayals differ and whether they reflect true bias or fairness. This comprehensive review sheds light on the complexities of media representation and public trust.

The book presents practical insights derived from extensive scientific research on happiness, making complex findings accessible to a general audience. It features a collection of one hundred actionable practices, each supported by clear examples and simplified scientific explanations. This approach aims to help readers enhance their lives and cultivate genuine happiness, transforming mundane routines into fulfilling experiences.

Exploring the essential qualities of great relationships, this book distills findings from over a thousand studies conducted by scientists and academics into accessible insights. The author presents key discoveries about what differentiates healthy, happy relationships, supported by real-life stories that illustrate these concepts in action. This research-based approach offers readers practical advice grounded in evidence rather than personal anecdotes, making it a valuable resource for anyone seeking to improve their romantic connections.

Exploring the dynamics of family life, this book delves into the principles that contribute to happiness within a household. It offers practical advice grounded in psychological research, emphasizing communication, emotional intelligence, and the importance of shared experiences. Readers will discover strategies to strengthen relationships, foster resilience, and create a supportive environment for all family members. The approachable style makes complex concepts accessible, encouraging families to implement positive changes for a happier home life.

They met during the London blitz. Pandora was a small-part actress in a hit musical; Stani, half Polish and half American, found himself alone in England - his father back with his troops in Poland, his mother trapped in France by Hitler's advance.Love affairs in those days were feverish. Pandora said war is an aphrodisiac and certainly they did not allow bombs to distract them nor even such major complications as Stani - now in the RAF - being seriously wounded while on Catafighter service, or Pandora (who proves to be an Earl's daughter) having to go on an ENSA tour to Burma.By the time the war is over, Pandora, always professionally ambitious, has got herself a Hollywood film contract, to learn that a theatre of war is not the only place where in-fighting can be tough.After the huge success of his autobiographical The Moon's a Balloon and Bring on the Empty Horses, David Niven now turns to fiction. In Pandora and Stani he has created a wonderfully attractive, totally credible pair of young lovers. Their story moves to many parts of the world - Germany, Poland, Mexico, Greece and the Spice Islands besides England and the United States and David Niven views their startling adventures with the same infectious charm and effortless light touch which made his two previous books immediate and lasting international best-sellers.

Practical advice for thriving in the second half of life, grounded in scientific studies, is presented in this sixth installment of a bestselling series. What distinguishes those who embrace aging from those who fear it? Researchers have dedicated their careers to exploring successful aging, but their insights often remain inaccessible to the general public. The international bestselling author has distilled findings from over a thousand scientific studies into one hundred essential strategies for joy, health, and satisfaction in daily life. Each strategy is illustrated with a true story demonstrating its impact. As Baby Boomers reach retirement age, this upbeat and accessible approach resonates with a large audience seeking the positive aspects of aging beyond mere discounts. Titles on aging well consistently perform well in the market, and this unique perspective will stand out among traditional self-help and psychology books. It promises to be an affordable, appealing gift for parents and grandparents, making it a staple in the category of practical advice for aging gracefully.

Why do dog owners enjoy happier, longer, and more fulfilling lives? Sociologists and veterinarians have explored the positive effects of dogs on human health and happiness, but their findings often remain hidden in obscure journals. The international bestselling author of the 100 Simple Secrets series has now distilled significant data from over a thousand scientific studies on the profound bond between humans and dogs. This compilation reveals one hundred essential ways dogs enhance our lives, each paired with an inspiring true story. Dogs improve communication by providing a common point of reference, making interactions more comfortable. Their presence can reduce the time it takes for people to feel at ease with each other by 45 percent. Additionally, caring for a dog is linked to longer, healthier lives; on average, dog owners live three years longer than those without dogs. Unlike primates, dogs are uniquely attuned to human cues, being 52 percent more likely to respond to gestures like pointing. Moreover, the simple act of walking a dog is beneficial for both parties. While it may seem like a chore, walking not only burns calories but also reduces stress. Dog owners typically walk 79 percent farther each week than non-dog owners, highlighting the mutual benefits of this daily routine.