Steve Allen Books

The innovative series Meeting of Minds presents original scripts from a groundbreaking talk show that aired from 1977 to 1981, featuring actors portraying historical figures like Aristotle, Cleopatra, and Gandhi. Created by Steve Allen, the show aimed to elevate television discourse beyond mediocrity, offering stimulating round-table discussions that blend wit and historical accuracy. This first volume showcases notable characters such as Theodore Roosevelt and Emily Dickinson, making history engaging and thought-provoking through lively dialogue and rich research.

Reports his personal observations and reactions to modern China following his three trips there since 1975.

Jack Shit rears his head once more, showcasing the best in toilet humour. Every loo should have one.

The cynical cult of 'celebrity' is damaging our culture - so why can't we stop looking?

Ever Millen is in LA, losing his mind. He's landed in the City of Angels seeking the truth about the death of his father, an abstract expressionist painter whose work has fallen out of favour. Ever soon discovers that revenge doesn't come easy. But then, by chance, he meets the beautiful, enigmatic Lomita Nairn, a woman almost fifty years his senior, his world is changed for ever and he sees what he must do to save them both. Part noir-thriller, part oddball-romance, part philosophical investigation into the nature of the human soul, Lomita For Ever is rich with wisdom and sympathy.

Just as Benny Whipple, a vaudeville veteran who had died at age ninety-three, is being buried, Steve Allen and Jayne Meadows discover the body of murdered slapstick king Terry Parker, and with the upcoming Comedy Awards fast approaching, everyone in Hollywood is a suspect. Reprint.

Exploring the concept of "dumbth," the book delves into the decline of intelligence in various aspects of society, including education, media, and politics. It argues that a lack of critical thinking and reasoning has led to a culture of ignorance. Through engaging anecdotes and research, the author highlights the consequences of this trend and offers insights on how to combat it. The work serves as a call to action for readers to recognize and address the growing problem of intellectual complacency in everyday life.

Exploring the art of humor, Steve Allen offers insights gained from decades in comedy, aiming to help readers uncover their unique comedic talents. The book includes practical advice on joke telling, ad-libbing, and performing, while referencing comedic legends from Mark Twain to Rodney Dangerfield. With engaging exercises for aspiring comedians, it also serves anyone looking to enhance their conversational skills, public speaking, or simply to become more entertaining in social situations.