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The Boys: A Memoir of Hollywood and Family
INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER “This extraordinary book is not only a chronicle of Ron’s and Clint’s early careers and their wild adventures, but also a primer on so many topics—how an actor prepares, how to survive as a kid working in Hollywood, and how to be the best parents in the world! The Boys will surprise every reader with its humanity.” — Tom Hanks "I have read dozens of Hollywood memoirs. But The Boys stands alone. A delightful, warm and fascinating story of a good life in show business.” — Malcolm Gladwell Happy Days , The Andy Griffith Show, Gentle Ben —these shows captivated millions of TV viewers in the ’60s and ’70s. Join award-winning filmmaker Ron Howard and audience-favorite actor Clint Howard as they frankly and fondly share their unusual family story of navigating and surviving life as sibling child actors. “What was it like to grow up on TV?” Ron Howard has been asked this question throughout his adult life. in The Boys , he and his younger brother, Clint, examine their childhoods in detail for the first time. For Ron, playing Opie on The Andy Griffith Show and Richie Cunningham on Happy Days offered fame, joy, and opportunity—but also invited stress and bullying. For Clint, a fast start on such programs as Gentle Ben and Star Trek petered out in adolescence, with some tough consequences and lessons. With the perspective of time and success—Ron as a filmmaker, producer, and Hollywood A-lister, Clint as a busy character actor—the Howard brothers delve deep into an upbringing that seemed normal to them yet was anything but. Their Midwestern parents, Rance and Jean, moved to California to pursue their own showbiz dreams. But it was their young sons who found steady employment as actors. Rance put aside his ego and ambition to become Ron and Clint’s teacher, sage, and moral compass. Jean became their loving protector—sometimes over -protector—from the snares and traps of Hollywood. By turns confessional, nostalgic, heartwarming, and harrowing, THE BOYS is a dual narrative that lifts the lid on the Howard brothers’ closely held lives. It’s the journey of a tight four-person family unit that held fast in an unforgiving business and of two brothers who survived “child-actor syndrome” to become fulfilled adults.
499 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 12, 2021
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October 21, 2021
Audiobook…. read by Ron Howard and Cliff Howard
…..13 hours and 18 minutes
Who does not love Ron Howard? Right? I mean … really? Can you think of one darn little thing ‘not’ to like?
Of course not!!!!
Here’s the thing though —
There is nothing [in content] not to admire and appreciate in this memoir by two brothers who love each other lots -
wanted to write a love tribute to their parents - and share with us about their coming of age as child actors…
Filled with so much love and gratefulness for their lives —
we get it!!!
Really get it!!!!
But….
this memoir is so packed filled with happy, healthy, functional stories —
(God I’m bad) > it almost becomes a little boring…
Without much range of ‘anything’ not happy-healthy and functional — the memoir has a monotone (nice) feeling.
Isn’t it a shame that ‘happy-nice’ isn’t as engaging to read as ‘trauma’ ?
3.5 POSITIVE happy-healing stars!!!
…..13 hours and 18 minutes
Who does not love Ron Howard? Right? I mean … really? Can you think of one darn little thing ‘not’ to like?
Of course not!!!!
Here’s the thing though —
There is nothing [in content] not to admire and appreciate in this memoir by two brothers who love each other lots -
wanted to write a love tribute to their parents - and share with us about their coming of age as child actors…
Filled with so much love and gratefulness for their lives —
we get it!!!
Really get it!!!!
But….
this memoir is so packed filled with happy, healthy, functional stories —
(God I’m bad) > it almost becomes a little boring…
Without much range of ‘anything’ not happy-healthy and functional — the memoir has a monotone (nice) feeling.
Isn’t it a shame that ‘happy-nice’ isn’t as engaging to read as ‘trauma’ ?
3.5 POSITIVE happy-healing stars!!!
February 21, 2022
The Boys by Ron and Clint Howard is a 2021 William Morrow publication.
As I read and listened to this book it struck me that the Howard brothers have been a presence in my life since I was a small child. This is very rare as we all know, but although they have popped in and out of my awareness, either with series television, movies, guest roles, or behind the scenes work, I occasionally marveled at the staying power of the Howard ‘boys’.
Have their lives been as charmed as they appear to be?
Other than what most other people know- I really didn’t know anything about the brother’s parents, what kind of upbringing they had, their personal relationships- friendships or romances, etc. But, even if I did have more than the surface information, I would still want to read this book.
I'd just like hearing the story come straight from Ron and Clint. It is their life, and they can give people insights they could never ascertain any other way. Telling one’s story, with both personal and career elements is such a personal endeavor, as one decides what to share, what readers would be interested in knowing, and still be honest, and forthright.
I would say that the Howard brothers did a great, and very thorough job. Maybe it is just me, but I never would have guessed that Ron and Clint are brothers, if I didn’t already know. I see very little physical resemblance, and that seems to be true in temperament as well. Clint’s perspective and personality, though ambitious, didn’t seem to have the same drive as Ron. He isn’t the boy scout that his older brother is, and his career has not followed the same path. I knew very little about Clint from a personal standpoint and found his portions of the story, though not as generous as Ron’s, to be more comical at times, but the darker tones of his life are quite evident.
Although the book was a bit too long, and maybe not all the stories told were as interesting or as impactful to the reader as they were for Ron or Clint, for the most part the book is very interesting.
The information they included in the book gives readers an up close and personal view of what it is like to be a child star, to try and live a ‘normal’ life, how they each coped with fame, and how some doors opened and some closed at just the right time and place.
Although both brothers have been successful, Ron’s goals were a bit more focused, and his personality is more positive, looking at the things through a rosier lens than Clint. Clint chose to be an actor, not a behind the scenes guy, and his experiences weren’t always as rosy as Ron’s- far from it, in fact.
In the end, though, as I reflected back on the book, after learning who had prodded Ron and Clint to consider writing it, and how it came to fruition, I thought that of all the memoirs, especially when dealing with Hollywood actors and players, it is true, that the child star, especially that of a television series star, rarely ever makes it through to a point in their lives where they can write a memoir about their long, long, long careers in the entertainment industry.
Despite some dark days for Clint, the brothers have weathered the stereotypes, and pitfalls, and have enjoyed careers that have spanned decades, and that is quite an accomplishment all on its own.
The book, maybe because it comes from two seasoned performers, has a slick, polished presentation, but it has a very honest quality about it, and felt sincere.
There is a great deal of material to cover, with two people contributing to the memoir, but the book is well organized and overall, I appreciated the approach, and the obvious amount of work the guys put into the book, and I enjoyed taking this journey with them. I loved that the memoir was like an ode to the ‘Boys’ parents, and it is obvious, that though they’ve lived unconventional lives in many ways, they have also lived traditional ones, where family relationships are at the center of their lives, first and foremost.
I really loved the way the book ended, as the brothers ribbed one another good- naturedly with jokes the readers will now fully understand.
4 stars
As I read and listened to this book it struck me that the Howard brothers have been a presence in my life since I was a small child. This is very rare as we all know, but although they have popped in and out of my awareness, either with series television, movies, guest roles, or behind the scenes work, I occasionally marveled at the staying power of the Howard ‘boys’.
Have their lives been as charmed as they appear to be?
Other than what most other people know- I really didn’t know anything about the brother’s parents, what kind of upbringing they had, their personal relationships- friendships or romances, etc. But, even if I did have more than the surface information, I would still want to read this book.
I'd just like hearing the story come straight from Ron and Clint. It is their life, and they can give people insights they could never ascertain any other way. Telling one’s story, with both personal and career elements is such a personal endeavor, as one decides what to share, what readers would be interested in knowing, and still be honest, and forthright.
I would say that the Howard brothers did a great, and very thorough job. Maybe it is just me, but I never would have guessed that Ron and Clint are brothers, if I didn’t already know. I see very little physical resemblance, and that seems to be true in temperament as well. Clint’s perspective and personality, though ambitious, didn’t seem to have the same drive as Ron. He isn’t the boy scout that his older brother is, and his career has not followed the same path. I knew very little about Clint from a personal standpoint and found his portions of the story, though not as generous as Ron’s, to be more comical at times, but the darker tones of his life are quite evident.
Although the book was a bit too long, and maybe not all the stories told were as interesting or as impactful to the reader as they were for Ron or Clint, for the most part the book is very interesting.
The information they included in the book gives readers an up close and personal view of what it is like to be a child star, to try and live a ‘normal’ life, how they each coped with fame, and how some doors opened and some closed at just the right time and place.
Although both brothers have been successful, Ron’s goals were a bit more focused, and his personality is more positive, looking at the things through a rosier lens than Clint. Clint chose to be an actor, not a behind the scenes guy, and his experiences weren’t always as rosy as Ron’s- far from it, in fact.
In the end, though, as I reflected back on the book, after learning who had prodded Ron and Clint to consider writing it, and how it came to fruition, I thought that of all the memoirs, especially when dealing with Hollywood actors and players, it is true, that the child star, especially that of a television series star, rarely ever makes it through to a point in their lives where they can write a memoir about their long, long, long careers in the entertainment industry.
Despite some dark days for Clint, the brothers have weathered the stereotypes, and pitfalls, and have enjoyed careers that have spanned decades, and that is quite an accomplishment all on its own.
The book, maybe because it comes from two seasoned performers, has a slick, polished presentation, but it has a very honest quality about it, and felt sincere.
There is a great deal of material to cover, with two people contributing to the memoir, but the book is well organized and overall, I appreciated the approach, and the obvious amount of work the guys put into the book, and I enjoyed taking this journey with them. I loved that the memoir was like an ode to the ‘Boys’ parents, and it is obvious, that though they’ve lived unconventional lives in many ways, they have also lived traditional ones, where family relationships are at the center of their lives, first and foremost.
I really loved the way the book ended, as the brothers ribbed one another good- naturedly with jokes the readers will now fully understand.
4 stars
July 27, 2024
4.5 stars
For more pictures go to my blog: https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot....
Authors Ron Howard (left) and Clint Howard
Ron Howard is an award-winning American director, producer, screenwriter and actor. Ron began his Hollywood career as a child actor, playing - among other parts - little Opie Taylor on the Andy Griffith Show and teenage Richie Cunningham on Happy Days.
Ron Howard as Opie Taylor
Ron Howard as Richie Cunningham
Clint Howard, a character actor, is Ron's younger brother. Clint also began his career as a child actor and - among other things - is well-known for portraying the alien Balok on an episode of Star Trek and young Mark Wedloe on Gentle Ben.
Clint Howard as Balok
Clint Howard as Mark Wedloe
Ron and Clint wrote this book to pay homage to their beloved mother and father, Jean Speegle Howard and Rance Howard, who selflessly guided their sons through the ins and outs of show business while keeping the boys grounded in everyday life.
Rance Howard and Jean Speegle Howard
Native Oklahomans Jean Speegle and Rance Howard aspired to be actors themselves, and moved to New York City in 1948 to start their fledgling careers. Jean and Rance married in 1949 and relocated to southern California, where opportunities were opening in television and movies. When Rance began to advance professionally, Jean gave up most of her acting ambitions to support her husband and raise a family.
Jean Speegle Howard and Rance Howard with little Ronny
Ron Howard (called Ronny as a youngster) was born in 1954, and started to show acting talent as a toddler. Rance used his contacts to get Ronny auditions, and the boy was soon launched as a child performer. Clint, born in 1959, had a similar jump-start to his acting career, assisted by his dad.
Young Ronny Howard
Young Clint Howard
To steer Ronny and Clint's vocations, Rance had to sacrifice some of his own ambitions, but he never complained. Ron writes, "Our parents' own show business aspirations were never realized as fully as ours, yet neither of them ever articulated or even telegraphed any bitterness or resentment."
Having occupations as children wasn't easy and Clint recalls, "We inherited the farmers' work ethic our folks brought with them from Oklahoma. We were grinders and scrappers...We spent our nights doing two sets of homework: our assignments for school and our run-throughs of the next day's lines with Dad."
The Howards were also a 'normal family', doing everyday things like Little League, rassling on the living room floor, and dinners out at the Sizzler. According to Clint, Jean thought of herself and Rance as sophisticated hicks - "Worldly enough to broaden their horizons through travel and the performing arts, yet homespun enough to live simply and humbly."
The Howard Famly: Rance, Jean, Clint and Ron
Ron has fond memories of his childhood and recalls early escapades like feeding gum to the family dog Gulliver, who promptly puked all over the floor. Recounting an admonition from Rance to stop giving Gulliver gum, Ron says, "I guess I was a repeat offender." In another childhood memory, Ronny is watching a western called Frontier Woman with his parents. Rance had a big part in the film, Jean was an extra who played a villager, and Ronny (an infant at the time) was the villager's baby, who was made to cry on cue.
When Ronny got bigger he scored speaking parts, and by his sixth birthday was cast as Opie Taylor in The Andy Griffith show. Ron remembers being on set, "Walking barefoot down a dirt path in L.A.'s Franklin Canyon Park with Andy at my side and a fishing pole on my shoulder." In a rock-throwing shot for the show's opening sequence, where a stronger arm than Ronny's had to hurl the stone, Ronny began his education in the "wizardly craft of creating moving-picture illusions" - which would stand him in good stead when he became a director.
Ronny Howard and Andy Griffith on The Andy Griffith Show
Rance functioned as Ronny's overseer and coach, giving up his chance for major stardom to help his son. Rance continued to audition - and got parts in movies and television - but most of his time was devoted to his children. Ron writes, "Somewhere around the time I got the Andy Griffith show, [Dad] made a choice...He chose to be a great parent - to support his children's opportunities with everything he had. His priority became me, and a little later, Clint."
Rance Howard with Clint and Ronnie
Ron tells many amusing stories about being on the set of The Andy Griffith show, where the crew swore like sailors, drank like fish, smoked like chimneys, and shared racy yarns. Ron speaks fondly of the cast, and relates anecdotes about some of his favorite people - like Hal Smith, who played Mayberry's town drunk Otis Campbell. After a time, The Andy Griffith Show became something of a Howard family affair, with Rance and Jean being on set, and Clint playing a little boy named Leon, who wore a cowboy outfit and didn't speak.
Hal Smith as Otis Campbell
Clint Howard as Leon
Ron learned a lot about acting during the run of The Andy Griffith Show, but - even as a child - he watched EVERYTHING, and started to acquire the skills he would need as a filmmaker. For Ronny's eighth birthday, Andy Griffith and Aaron Ruben (the show's producer) gave Ronny a Bell & Howell Zoomatic 8 mm movie camera - to encourage the boy's movie-making aspirations.
Rance gave his sons more than acting tips; he gave them life skills. Clint recalls that his dad taught Ronny and himself fighting techniques, so they could defend themselves. Clint writes,"Dad knew that we would be perceived as being different, being show-business kids...And he didn't want us to live in fear or be intimidated by anyone or anything."
For Clint's first big acting role he was a cast member on The Baileys of Balboa, after which he guest-starred on Bonanza and - at the age of seven - played Balok on (what was then) a little show called Star Trek. The Balok character was six-hundred-years-old but looked like a child, and Balok is still a favorite among Trekkies. Clint tells entertaining stories about his early career, especially his role as Balok and then as Mark Wedloe, a boy with a pet bear in the TV series Gentle Ben.
Clint Howard (with Michael Landon) in Bonanza
Ron and Clint were close-knit brothers, and in addition to (occasionally) acting together, they hung out together. Both boys loved basketball, and Ron coached Clint's basketball team, the Howard Hurricanes, for years. Moreover, when young Ron started to write and direct his own short films, he usually cast Clint in the lead role. And Clint, being no fool, demanded payment. 🙂 Ron and Clint also admit to teenage peccadilloes and rebellious behavior, such as relentlessly teasing (one might say tormenting) their mom, though they loved her dearly.
After The Andy Griffith Show, which wrapped when Ronny was fourteen, he had a hard time getting good parts. Ron observes, "There was no Opie Bounce...The work I was getting was pretty underwhelming...I somewhat smugly assumed that the industry would always be eager to take me back. It wasn't." This is a problem experienced by many child actors. Ron writes, "[Child actors are] in demand when they're prepubescent and cute, but less so when they enter adolescence. Just as these kids are entering the most vulnerable years of their childhoods - self-aware, awkward, and hormonal - their livelihood and sense of identity are pulled out from under them."
Luckily for Ron and Clint, their acting careers weathered their pubescent years, and they continued working in Hollywood. Clint got parts in westerns, sitcoms, TV dramas, and films. And Ron eventually went on to play Richie Cunningham in the hit show Happy Days. Both boys had life-altering experiences in their teen years. Ron met Cheryl Alley - whom he later married; and Clint met marijuana, alcohol (and later) cocaine, and became an addict. Clint talks a good deal about his addiction and eventual recovery, and how it affected himself and his family.
Teenage Clint Howard (third from left) in The Cowboys
Ron Howard and Cheryl Alley
Ron Howard and Cheryl Alley got married
Happy Days taught Ron some hard lessons about show business. Though the show was built around Ron's Richie Cunningham character, the Fonzie character - played by Henry Winkler - became wildly popular. The network wanted to rename the show Fonzie's Happy Days, but backed down when Ron threatened to quit.
Henry Winkler as Fonzie
Ron writes, "In a way, this incident served me well, in that I was reminded, as I had been after The Andy Griffith Show, that the entertainment industry had no investment in my well-being. It's a cold business, and no one in Hollywood felt sentimentally obligated to advance my career and keep me happy." Ron realized he needed a long-term plan, and took steps to become a filmmaker.
Ron's first big movie was 1977's comedy Grand Theft Auto, about a rich girl who steals her dad's Rolls Royce and takes off for Las Vegas with her boyfriend. The girl's parents offer a reward for her return, and a bunch of hilarious bounty hunters take up the challenge. The movie was a true family venture: Ron and Rance wrote the script; Ron, Rance, and Clint acted in the film; and Ron's wife Cheryl and mother Jean catered food for the film set.
Ron went on to become an award-winning director; Clint and Rance continued to work in show business; and Jean got back into acting as well. Ron writes, "I wasn't the only Howard to take flight. In the 1980s, Mom returned to acting...It started with me putting her in Cocoon as a featured extra who worked on the film for several weeks." Jean then cornered the market on little-old-lady roles in sitcoms and shone in Ron's movie Apollo 13, where she played astronaut Jim Lovell's mother.
Jean Speegle Howard got many 'little old lady' roles
Ron's parents kept a close eye on their boys into young adulthood, but knew when to let go. Ron observes, "What a gift that was to let me fly away...It was their final act in raising me and positioning me for success in our shared field of work - a tremendous act of love and grace." And Clint and his dad became best friends. Clint recalls, "[Dad and I] went to ball games together, hung out together, engaged in shoptalk..I treasured our ritual of discussing the work and Dad clearly appreciated that I solicited his input."
Ron Howard achieved success as a director
Clint and Rance Howard became best friends
In the acknowledgments the authors conclude, "What a gift it is to be able to look back at our lives with such love, respect, and appreciation. So, thanks, Mom and Dad."
I enjoyed the book, which is a great story about Ron and Clint and their parents, with lots of nice photos.
You can follow my reviews at https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com
January 17, 2022
I saw Libby reading this book while online this morning --
Its always a mystery to me --where 'missing' reviews go?
and
how and why they 'sometimes' show up later --
I know I 'listened' to Ron Howard read this book!
Its always a mystery to me --where 'missing' reviews go?
and
how and why they 'sometimes' show up later --
I know I 'listened' to Ron Howard read this book!
January 19, 2023
3.5 rounded up
When my mother was a child, she along with a bunch of other kids would go to the neighbor’s house to watch TV. Growing up with a house full of siblings, TV-owning and watching wasn’t a priority, but it did become almost sacrosanct when it finally occurred. It was a sign of prosperity when you got your first TV. My parents bought ours in 1963 when I was six years old. By that time Ron Howard was a regular on The Andy Griffith Show as Opie, Andy’s son. Within a few years, his younger brother, Clint would star as Mark Wedloe, Tom Weloe’s son (played by Dennis Weaver) on Gentle Ben. Ron & Clint Howard’s journey through their formative years as part of a show business family was an entertaining read.
As a kid, I was not enamored with Opie or Andy Griffith and when it came to Sunday night TV watching, my family was all in for The Wonderful World of Disney so I was barely aware of Gentle Ben or the existence of the cute little towhead that played Mark on another channel in the same time frame. However, as an adult, I came to appreciate the downhome humor of the Mayberry community of Andy Griffith. It was so rewarding to read that the Andy Griffith that Ron Howard knew as a little boy was just like he appears in the show. He was kind, generous, and looking out for his actors and TV crew. Ron Howard will compare the humor on this show to that of Happy Days where he starred as Richie Cunningham in the 1970s. There they went for the hard laughs. He preferred the low-key humor of The Andy Griffith Show and made it sound like an ideal place for a child actor to grow up.
Hollywood can be brutal to child actors when they enter adolescence. Both Ron and Clint had difficulty traversing that bump from childhood to their teenage years in the world of acting. They describe Hollywood as cold and indifferent to the plight of child actors. Clint Howard becomes a character actor, much like their father, Rance Howard. Character acting can be a hard row to hoe as actors live from audition to audition. Clint wrote for his high school newspaper and had some writing chops. His chapters are shorter and fewer than his brother’s but they were very engaging. It’s easy to see the differences between the brothers. Ron describes Clint as a “go for broke” kind of guy. I saw Ron as what I call the steady Eddy. He did not like his Opie image as a teenager and wanted to break out of the nerdy square guy stereotype.
Rance comes across as an ideal father for these two boys. Rance Howard was always looking for his next acting job, however, when his boys started acting, he was fully supportive. When he found a waiting room filled with little kids waiting to audition for a part, he told the receptionist, “Tell them that Rance Howard stopped by, and that, by the way, I have a son who is a fine actor.” That’s how Ron got his first role in ‘The Journey.’ For Clint, it was the cute little cowboy outfit that his mother Jean dressed him in that got him noticed on The Andy Griffith set. Jean, who had started out acting, quit so that her husband could continue to do what he loved best, and later, both parents took a small manager’s fee as their boys entered the fray. I had a lot of sympathy for Jean because she always deferred what she wanted in the service of her family. She became a chain-smoker and gained weight, eventually looking much older than her husband.
I enjoyed this memoir because it brought back a lot of happy memories of my family relaxing and watching TV together. No devices, all of us sharing a common space and watching the same program.
When my mother was a child, she along with a bunch of other kids would go to the neighbor’s house to watch TV. Growing up with a house full of siblings, TV-owning and watching wasn’t a priority, but it did become almost sacrosanct when it finally occurred. It was a sign of prosperity when you got your first TV. My parents bought ours in 1963 when I was six years old. By that time Ron Howard was a regular on The Andy Griffith Show as Opie, Andy’s son. Within a few years, his younger brother, Clint would star as Mark Wedloe, Tom Weloe’s son (played by Dennis Weaver) on Gentle Ben. Ron & Clint Howard’s journey through their formative years as part of a show business family was an entertaining read.
As a kid, I was not enamored with Opie or Andy Griffith and when it came to Sunday night TV watching, my family was all in for The Wonderful World of Disney so I was barely aware of Gentle Ben or the existence of the cute little towhead that played Mark on another channel in the same time frame. However, as an adult, I came to appreciate the downhome humor of the Mayberry community of Andy Griffith. It was so rewarding to read that the Andy Griffith that Ron Howard knew as a little boy was just like he appears in the show. He was kind, generous, and looking out for his actors and TV crew. Ron Howard will compare the humor on this show to that of Happy Days where he starred as Richie Cunningham in the 1970s. There they went for the hard laughs. He preferred the low-key humor of The Andy Griffith Show and made it sound like an ideal place for a child actor to grow up.
Hollywood can be brutal to child actors when they enter adolescence. Both Ron and Clint had difficulty traversing that bump from childhood to their teenage years in the world of acting. They describe Hollywood as cold and indifferent to the plight of child actors. Clint Howard becomes a character actor, much like their father, Rance Howard. Character acting can be a hard row to hoe as actors live from audition to audition. Clint wrote for his high school newspaper and had some writing chops. His chapters are shorter and fewer than his brother’s but they were very engaging. It’s easy to see the differences between the brothers. Ron describes Clint as a “go for broke” kind of guy. I saw Ron as what I call the steady Eddy. He did not like his Opie image as a teenager and wanted to break out of the nerdy square guy stereotype.
Rance comes across as an ideal father for these two boys. Rance Howard was always looking for his next acting job, however, when his boys started acting, he was fully supportive. When he found a waiting room filled with little kids waiting to audition for a part, he told the receptionist, “Tell them that Rance Howard stopped by, and that, by the way, I have a son who is a fine actor.” That’s how Ron got his first role in ‘The Journey.’ For Clint, it was the cute little cowboy outfit that his mother Jean dressed him in that got him noticed on The Andy Griffith set. Jean, who had started out acting, quit so that her husband could continue to do what he loved best, and later, both parents took a small manager’s fee as their boys entered the fray. I had a lot of sympathy for Jean because she always deferred what she wanted in the service of her family. She became a chain-smoker and gained weight, eventually looking much older than her husband.
I enjoyed this memoir because it brought back a lot of happy memories of my family relaxing and watching TV together. No devices, all of us sharing a common space and watching the same program.
October 11, 2021
The Howards are the gold standard when it comes to Hollywood families. Yes, they have experienced success working in the tv/film industry but what is most impressive to me is they are down-to-earth, good, honest people. I got teary-eyed more than once while reading this memoir written by brothers Ron and Clint Howard. The love they have for each other and their parents is so apparent and made for a heartwarming read.
Actor Rance Howard married actress Jean Speegle in 1949. In 1954, their son Ron entered the world. Perhaps you've heard of him. He played Opie on The Andy Griffith Show, Richie Cunningham on Happy Days, and transitioned into a not too shabby career as a director. Clint is five years younger than his brother, Ron, and he too was a child star. He played the role of Marc Wedloe on the tv series, Gentle Ben, and had guest roles on just about every popular tv series in 1960s and 1970s. With almost 60 years in the business, Clint has had a pretty awesome career as a character actor. (On a side note, I always get excited when I'm watching a movie or tv show and he pops up and totally will exclaim, "Hey, it's Clint Howard!" with a big smile on my face.)
So what's the secret to the brothers' success? They obviously have talent but a lot of the credit goes to their parents for giving them as much of a normal upbringing as possible. They valued the important things in life not the wealth or the fame. And both Ron and Clint recognize their parents' contributions as well the sacrifices they made so their kids could pursue their careers. Sharing their memories of their childhood in this book really honors their parents.
Highly recommend reading this memoir as it is full of humor, heart, and wisdom.
Thank you to William Morrow for providing me with an advance copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
Actor Rance Howard married actress Jean Speegle in 1949. In 1954, their son Ron entered the world. Perhaps you've heard of him. He played Opie on The Andy Griffith Show, Richie Cunningham on Happy Days, and transitioned into a not too shabby career as a director. Clint is five years younger than his brother, Ron, and he too was a child star. He played the role of Marc Wedloe on the tv series, Gentle Ben, and had guest roles on just about every popular tv series in 1960s and 1970s. With almost 60 years in the business, Clint has had a pretty awesome career as a character actor. (On a side note, I always get excited when I'm watching a movie or tv show and he pops up and totally will exclaim, "Hey, it's Clint Howard!" with a big smile on my face.)
So what's the secret to the brothers' success? They obviously have talent but a lot of the credit goes to their parents for giving them as much of a normal upbringing as possible. They valued the important things in life not the wealth or the fame. And both Ron and Clint recognize their parents' contributions as well the sacrifices they made so their kids could pursue their careers. Sharing their memories of their childhood in this book really honors their parents.
Highly recommend reading this memoir as it is full of humor, heart, and wisdom.
Thank you to William Morrow for providing me with an advance copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
January 1, 2024
Forgive the pun, but listening to this book put a good amount of happy in my day. My family and I regularly watched "Happy Days" in the 70's. I confess that all of us did our share of cheesy Fonzie impressions. Without a doubt, Ron's character Richie Cunningham was a guy you could root for. In the present day, my husband (a retired police sergeant) still enjoys "The Andy Griffith Show" and loves to refer to them as "training videos." Listening to Ron and Clint talk about their childhood and the loving guidance they received from their parents has been a delight. The transitions between the two brothers were seamless and well-planned. It is clear they share an unshakable bond. Now all I need to do is get my hands on a hardcover copy so I can get a look at the photos. If you enjoy memoirs, check this one out. I don't think you will be disappointed.
March 9, 2022
One of those best read on audio books. I am probably this books Target audience having seen or heard in my lifetime almost all the shows mentioned. The best thing about this book is the familial love that shines through. Maybe not a true 5 star book but I am really happy they wrote it.
February 14, 2022
The Boys: A Memoir of Hollywood and Family by Ron Howard and Clint Howard is the biography of four people: the Howard boys and their parents. The book goes back to the very beginning of the Howard family and is very detailed. Because this was an audiobook, the reader hears the voice of each brother, taking turns with each of their lives. What stands out is the degree of love and caring between parents and children and the love between the siblings. There are threads throughout of humour, guidance, kindness and consideration and all of this in the frenetic world of show-business. The alternating vignettes make the book interesting. I enjoyed this biography tremendously. Highly recommended.
May 29, 2022
Great double memoir by the Howard brothers, framing the story of their young lives and careers through the prism of their relationship with their parents.
I’m a big fan of the Andy Griffith Show and I’ve read a lot about it. Ron gives as great a perspective on that show as any I’ve read, with a lot of great stories and insights. He truly loved Griffith, who was an important figure in his life. (And this is probably the only AGS behind-the-scenes stuff I’ve read where Francis Bavier isn’t a villain!)
The other great parts of the book for me covered his time on Happy Days (which include the beginning of his lifelong friendship with Henry Winkler, who is apparently as great a guy as he seems, plus some interesting battles Howard had with ABC) and the production of the first movie in his career as a director: “Grand Theft Auto.”
Clint has good stuff as well, including a behind the scenes of a great Star Trek episode - The Corbomite Maneuver. But overall his story kind of backfills Ron’s. In a good way! The two of them took very divergent paths and it was interesting to hear their separate versions of the same time period.
Really interesting Hollywood memoir.
I’m a big fan of the Andy Griffith Show and I’ve read a lot about it. Ron gives as great a perspective on that show as any I’ve read, with a lot of great stories and insights. He truly loved Griffith, who was an important figure in his life. (And this is probably the only AGS behind-the-scenes stuff I’ve read where Francis Bavier isn’t a villain!)
The other great parts of the book for me covered his time on Happy Days (which include the beginning of his lifelong friendship with Henry Winkler, who is apparently as great a guy as he seems, plus some interesting battles Howard had with ABC) and the production of the first movie in his career as a director: “Grand Theft Auto.”
Clint has good stuff as well, including a behind the scenes of a great Star Trek episode - The Corbomite Maneuver. But overall his story kind of backfills Ron’s. In a good way! The two of them took very divergent paths and it was interesting to hear their separate versions of the same time period.
Really interesting Hollywood memoir.
November 11, 2021
I really enjoyed reading this book!
Ron and Clint Howard talk about their somewhat normal childhood despite being Hollywood child actors, thanks to their parents.
They didn’t live a lavish lifestyle but grew up in a family neighborhood with other kids and went to public schools when they could. Their parents saved the money they earned and only used ten percent as management fee, since their dad was their manager. That amount was far less than what any Hollywood manager or agent would have cost.
The published book has lots of great photos of the entire family. I read the egalley which didn’t include pics.
It was so good my husband is now reading the published print book!
Thanks to Edelweiss and Harper Collins.
Ron and Clint Howard talk about their somewhat normal childhood despite being Hollywood child actors, thanks to their parents.
They didn’t live a lavish lifestyle but grew up in a family neighborhood with other kids and went to public schools when they could. Their parents saved the money they earned and only used ten percent as management fee, since their dad was their manager. That amount was far less than what any Hollywood manager or agent would have cost.
The published book has lots of great photos of the entire family. I read the egalley which didn’t include pics.
It was so good my husband is now reading the published print book!
Thanks to Edelweiss and Harper Collins.
December 11, 2021
I have long admired Ron Howard especially because he was able to transition from child star to acclaimed director having avoided the pitfalls that so many other child actors fall into.
This appears to have had a great deal to do with his very sensible (theatre people themselves) parents.
I knew he had a brother but knew almost nothing about him.
Their dad, an actor as well, was a good influence for young Ron and Clint.
However, Clint did not escape the pitfalls of being a child actor, but he turned his life around and has been a working actor all along.
This is a nostalgic look back at early Hollywood and how child actors were treated back in the day.
The book does not go much into Ron’s career as a director except to say that he knew very early on that that was what he wanted to do.
Ron’s take on actors such as Henry Fonda, Bette Davis and others of that era: “It wasn’t the studio system or their distinctive looks that had made these actors the giants of Hollywood’s golden age. It was ….their common work ethic and commitment to quality.” (pg.324).
I loved Ron's relationship with his first girlfriend Cheryl who became his wife in 1975 and they have stayed married to this day. As Hollywood couples go this is something to be proud of.
This appears to have had a great deal to do with his very sensible (theatre people themselves) parents.
I knew he had a brother but knew almost nothing about him.
Their dad, an actor as well, was a good influence for young Ron and Clint.
However, Clint did not escape the pitfalls of being a child actor, but he turned his life around and has been a working actor all along.
This is a nostalgic look back at early Hollywood and how child actors were treated back in the day.
The book does not go much into Ron’s career as a director except to say that he knew very early on that that was what he wanted to do.
Ron’s take on actors such as Henry Fonda, Bette Davis and others of that era: “It wasn’t the studio system or their distinctive looks that had made these actors the giants of Hollywood’s golden age. It was ….their common work ethic and commitment to quality.” (pg.324).
I loved Ron's relationship with his first girlfriend Cheryl who became his wife in 1975 and they have stayed married to this day. As Hollywood couples go this is something to be proud of.
January 23, 2022
I won this as a goodreads giveaway. Thank you William Morrow and Harper Collins Publishers.
This is one of those books I had a hard time putting down. I wanted to finish it in one go.
While the Howard brothers were relaying their experiences on paper, if I had seen the film or TV show it played back in my head. It was also my walk down memory lane as well.
Give this wonderful memoir a go.
This is one of those books I had a hard time putting down. I wanted to finish it in one go.
While the Howard brothers were relaying their experiences on paper, if I had seen the film or TV show it played back in my head. It was also my walk down memory lane as well.
Give this wonderful memoir a go.
June 21, 2024
We were grinders and scrappers. Showbiz may seem glamorous, but each battle is won in the trenches with heavy doses of perspiration and preparation. We spent our nights doing two sets of homework: our assignments for school and our run-throughs of the next day's lines with Dad.
I'm a couple of years older than Ron Howard and grew up watching him on The Andy Griffith Show, in the movie The Music Man, and on Happy Days. It was a pleasure to read this well-written, dual memoir by Ron and his younger brother Clint, which focuses on the lives of their parents, their childhoods, and the beginnings of their adult careers. Their dad, Rance, and mom, Jean, both actors with realistic aspirations for Hollywood success, generously and without missing a beat, shifted gears to support and coach Ron and Clint as child actors, and to keep them grounded. Ron worked hard to transition from acting into directing in his twenties, while Clint struggled with addictions to alcohol and drugs, but overcame them and achieved a successful, lifelong career as a character actor. Highly recommended, especially for anyone who's watched the boys on screen.
I'm a couple of years older than Ron Howard and grew up watching him on The Andy Griffith Show, in the movie The Music Man, and on Happy Days. It was a pleasure to read this well-written, dual memoir by Ron and his younger brother Clint, which focuses on the lives of their parents, their childhoods, and the beginnings of their adult careers. Their dad, Rance, and mom, Jean, both actors with realistic aspirations for Hollywood success, generously and without missing a beat, shifted gears to support and coach Ron and Clint as child actors, and to keep them grounded. Ron worked hard to transition from acting into directing in his twenties, while Clint struggled with addictions to alcohol and drugs, but overcame them and achieved a successful, lifelong career as a character actor. Highly recommended, especially for anyone who's watched the boys on screen.
February 13, 2024
The Boys: A Memoir of Hollywood and Family is an atypical read for me. Hollywood memoirs generally are not part of my reading regimen. But Ron Howard was an icon of my childhood, and his brother Clint has been one of the most intriguing character actors of my lifetime. Beyond that, this book is as much about family as Hollywood. The Howard brothers represent a rare case of child actors gracefully aging into well adjusted adults still working in the industry, a fact that they credit to their extraordinary parents.
This memoir closely follows both brothers as their parents shepherded their careers as two of the most prominent child stars of the ‘60s and early ‘70s. Ron (The Andy Griffith Show, American Graffiti, Happy Days) was always the bigger star, but brother Clint was constantly working as well, and is best remembered for his role on Gentle Ben, and a memorable appearance as the alien Balok on Star Trek TOS. It continues their stories as they aged into adult careers — Ron behind the camera, becoming one of Hollywood’s top directors, and Clint pursuing a career as a character actor.
The Boys is a true, feel good memoir. The affection the brothers have for each other, and the love, respect, and gratitude both have for the parents who raised them so wisely and well, is palpable. This particularly comes across in the audiobook where the Howard brothers narrate their own story. If you grew up watching these guys, you’ll love this book.
This memoir closely follows both brothers as their parents shepherded their careers as two of the most prominent child stars of the ‘60s and early ‘70s. Ron (The Andy Griffith Show, American Graffiti, Happy Days) was always the bigger star, but brother Clint was constantly working as well, and is best remembered for his role on Gentle Ben, and a memorable appearance as the alien Balok on Star Trek TOS. It continues their stories as they aged into adult careers — Ron behind the camera, becoming one of Hollywood’s top directors, and Clint pursuing a career as a character actor.
The Boys is a true, feel good memoir. The affection the brothers have for each other, and the love, respect, and gratitude both have for the parents who raised them so wisely and well, is palpable. This particularly comes across in the audiobook where the Howard brothers narrate their own story. If you grew up watching these guys, you’ll love this book.
February 17, 2024
Awesome from start to finish, this book works on so many levels:
As individual memoirs for each of the brothers, Ron and Clint, detailing their personal and career ups and downs; as a family portrait, a testament to their love and respect for each other and their parents; and as a Hollywood behind-the-scenes “tell-all” (though there’s not much scandal) about their work on their classics and their duds.
So interesting to read about their experiences acting in “The Andy Griffith Show”, “Gentle Ben”, “The Music Man”, “Star Trek”, “American Graffiti”, “Happy Days”, and myriad other shows, as well as Ron’s gradual transformation into an Oscar-winning director (especially fun is the story of the making of his first feature film, “Grand Theft Auto”).
They both write with clarity, wisdom, honesty, and self-effacing humor. A joy to read!
As individual memoirs for each of the brothers, Ron and Clint, detailing their personal and career ups and downs; as a family portrait, a testament to their love and respect for each other and their parents; and as a Hollywood behind-the-scenes “tell-all” (though there’s not much scandal) about their work on their classics and their duds.
So interesting to read about their experiences acting in “The Andy Griffith Show”, “Gentle Ben”, “The Music Man”, “Star Trek”, “American Graffiti”, “Happy Days”, and myriad other shows, as well as Ron’s gradual transformation into an Oscar-winning director (especially fun is the story of the making of his first feature film, “Grand Theft Auto”).
They both write with clarity, wisdom, honesty, and self-effacing humor. A joy to read!
March 25, 2022
Brothers Ron and Clint Howard team up to bring us their memoir of growing up in Hollywood and in the public eye. It is also a tribute to their parents, Rance and Jean Howard. I don't read many memoirs but I found this one to be a wonderful story. Most people are probably familiar with Ron because of his work on televison and the many fine films he has brought us. Many probably know Clint from his own work on "Gentle Ben" and various supporting roles. In this book you learn about what is was like for them growing up. Warts and all.
Rance Howard met Jean Speegle in Oklahoma. They were aspiring actors and married in 1949. They moved to New York and then California where there were more opportunites for parts in television and movies. Jean had put aside her own ambitions to support Rance and raise the children. Rance used his contacts to get Ronny auditions. The same would happen with Clint. The rest is history. To guide and support the boys Rance had to put his own ambitions on the back burner. While many parents took advantage of their children's acting success this never entered the minds of Rance and Jean.
From the very beginning Ron showed an interest in the industry. Not just the series he was working on and his role but the whole process. The lighting and camera placements. He asked questions. He knew early on that he would like to be a director. Looking from the outside you might think he has had a charmed life but there was stress and bullying. Bullying? Yes. It wasn't easy shaking the Opie image. Also there were drugs (which Ron avoided) and the Vietnam war. For a time being drafted was a very real possibility. Thankfuly that never happened.
Clint started out on a similar path. He landed occasional roles on "The Andy Griffith Show" as Leon wearing a cowboy outfit and holding a PB&J sandwich which he usually held out in an offer to Barney or one of the other characters. From there he moved on to his own show, "Gentle Ben", and as Balok on "Star Trek". Like Ron he had difficulty with the Mark Wedloe image from his television series. Clint unfortunately was not able to avoid the alcohol and drugs so readily available. But was able to get into recovery and is enjoying sobriety. He had a close relationship with his father towards the end of his life.
The takeaway is the close relatinship of Ron and Clint and what remarkable parents they had. Growing up in Hollywood and being famous is not easy. There are too many stories of child actors who met a tragic end. The fact that Ron and Clint survived and are successful is a wonderful story. An enjoyable read.
Rance Howard met Jean Speegle in Oklahoma. They were aspiring actors and married in 1949. They moved to New York and then California where there were more opportunites for parts in television and movies. Jean had put aside her own ambitions to support Rance and raise the children. Rance used his contacts to get Ronny auditions. The same would happen with Clint. The rest is history. To guide and support the boys Rance had to put his own ambitions on the back burner. While many parents took advantage of their children's acting success this never entered the minds of Rance and Jean.
From the very beginning Ron showed an interest in the industry. Not just the series he was working on and his role but the whole process. The lighting and camera placements. He asked questions. He knew early on that he would like to be a director. Looking from the outside you might think he has had a charmed life but there was stress and bullying. Bullying? Yes. It wasn't easy shaking the Opie image. Also there were drugs (which Ron avoided) and the Vietnam war. For a time being drafted was a very real possibility. Thankfuly that never happened.
Clint started out on a similar path. He landed occasional roles on "The Andy Griffith Show" as Leon wearing a cowboy outfit and holding a PB&J sandwich which he usually held out in an offer to Barney or one of the other characters. From there he moved on to his own show, "Gentle Ben", and as Balok on "Star Trek". Like Ron he had difficulty with the Mark Wedloe image from his television series. Clint unfortunately was not able to avoid the alcohol and drugs so readily available. But was able to get into recovery and is enjoying sobriety. He had a close relationship with his father towards the end of his life.
The takeaway is the close relatinship of Ron and Clint and what remarkable parents they had. Growing up in Hollywood and being famous is not easy. There are too many stories of child actors who met a tragic end. The fact that Ron and Clint survived and are successful is a wonderful story. An enjoyable read.
April 15, 2022
Absolutely loved this book. I remember many of the shows the brothers acted in and enjoyed reading about some of the behind the scenes look. The family seemed to be middle class and hardworking. It was a bit of a walk down memory lane for me. I did not know about Clints drug problems. The book tapers off after Rons first movie directing project even though others are mentioned. Clint's drug use is mentioned as is his sobriety. The book winds down with the death of the brothers' parents.
July 19, 2022
5 Stars for The Boys: A Memoir of Hollywood and Family (audiobook) by Ron Howard and Clint Howard read by the authors and Bryce Dallas Howard.
Watching Ron Howard on TV was such a big part of my childhood, I’ll never forget Opie Taylor and Richie Cunningham. But some how I completely missed his brother. I think I’ve seen Clint Howard in a couple of movies but I just can’t remember what he looks like.
It was fascinating hearing how the family found opportunities in the acting world. And how Ron Howard was directing movies from a young age.
Watching Ron Howard on TV was such a big part of my childhood, I’ll never forget Opie Taylor and Richie Cunningham. But some how I completely missed his brother. I think I’ve seen Clint Howard in a couple of movies but I just can’t remember what he looks like.
It was fascinating hearing how the family found opportunities in the acting world. And how Ron Howard was directing movies from a young age.
June 26, 2023
Month of April 2022: Celebrity Profiles
Audiobook (13 hrs)
Read by brothers, Ron Howard and Clint Howard
The Andy Griffith Show is still one of my favorite shows today. I feel really sad that I can’t give this a big ol’ fat 5-star. But, I was actually a little disappointed, maybe a little bored would be a better word, during portions of this autobiography. 3 star really…average, take it or leave it.
This was read by both Ron and Clint. I would be listening to Ron, then suddenly out of the blue, Clint would chime in...sometimes on his part of the story, or a part of his life, sometimes it was just a sentence. This actually threw me off a bit. Their voices are so different; I wouldn’t be expecting the change. I was like, “Wait, what? Ron’s story is over?” They were both really good readers, but some parts were very interesting, and some parts literally put me to sleep. I wonder if I would have felt differently about their story if I had read the book myself? Could be that I’m just not really into audiobooks? I am trying a few for the first time this year.
Of course, I knew exactly which show Ron was talking about when it came to the little tidbits on The Andy Griffith Show and could visualize every scene. I really enjoyed hearing all about how this show was filmed. I will say I was surprised to find out that Ron had such a hard time throughout his school years because of his sweet little Opie character. Boy, kids can sure be mean.
I forgot about Ron playing Richie on Happy Days, which wasn’t one of my favorite shows back in the ‘70’s. I only watched because I was in love with Scott Baio. I never realized what good friends Ron and Henry Winkler, who played Fonzie, really were.
Richie was the star of the show, but was consequently being marginalized because the viewers were more into Fonzie. After several seasons, the producers were wanting to rename the show, “Fonzie’s Happy Days”. This kind of pushed Ron into directing, instead of acting, which is where he had always wanted to be since he was a little kid. This...he is very good at!
Ron found out a little later just what a good friend he had in Henry Winkler, who had told the producers, “No!” He was not for renaming the show after him because he knew Happy Days was Richie’s show. Needless to say, they are still good friends to this day. In fact, Henry is Godfather to all four of Ron Howard’s kids.
How ironic that my next book to read is Henry Winkler’s autobiography, “I’ve Never Met an Idiot on the River” (2011). It looks and sounds very promising. We’ll see.
Audiobook (13 hrs)
Read by brothers, Ron Howard and Clint Howard
The Andy Griffith Show is still one of my favorite shows today. I feel really sad that I can’t give this a big ol’ fat 5-star. But, I was actually a little disappointed, maybe a little bored would be a better word, during portions of this autobiography. 3 star really…average, take it or leave it.
This was read by both Ron and Clint. I would be listening to Ron, then suddenly out of the blue, Clint would chime in...sometimes on his part of the story, or a part of his life, sometimes it was just a sentence. This actually threw me off a bit. Their voices are so different; I wouldn’t be expecting the change. I was like, “Wait, what? Ron’s story is over?” They were both really good readers, but some parts were very interesting, and some parts literally put me to sleep. I wonder if I would have felt differently about their story if I had read the book myself? Could be that I’m just not really into audiobooks? I am trying a few for the first time this year.
Of course, I knew exactly which show Ron was talking about when it came to the little tidbits on The Andy Griffith Show and could visualize every scene. I really enjoyed hearing all about how this show was filmed. I will say I was surprised to find out that Ron had such a hard time throughout his school years because of his sweet little Opie character. Boy, kids can sure be mean.
I forgot about Ron playing Richie on Happy Days, which wasn’t one of my favorite shows back in the ‘70’s. I only watched because I was in love with Scott Baio. I never realized what good friends Ron and Henry Winkler, who played Fonzie, really were.
Richie was the star of the show, but was consequently being marginalized because the viewers were more into Fonzie. After several seasons, the producers were wanting to rename the show, “Fonzie’s Happy Days”. This kind of pushed Ron into directing, instead of acting, which is where he had always wanted to be since he was a little kid. This...he is very good at!
Ron found out a little later just what a good friend he had in Henry Winkler, who had told the producers, “No!” He was not for renaming the show after him because he knew Happy Days was Richie’s show. Needless to say, they are still good friends to this day. In fact, Henry is Godfather to all four of Ron Howard’s kids.
How ironic that my next book to read is Henry Winkler’s autobiography, “I’ve Never Met an Idiot on the River” (2011). It looks and sounds very promising. We’ll see.
June 4, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Absolutely loved reading this wonderful book.
Absolutely loved reading this wonderful book.
January 26, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed The Boys: A Memoir of Hollywood and Family by Ron and Clint Howard. I listened to the audio version, which is narrated by Ron and Clint. They are both so appreciative of their careers in television and film. For the most part they lived simple, down-to-earth lives due to their parents’ influence. For the majority of their childhood, they lived in a small ranch house with 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. Ron’s first car at age 16 was a Volkswagen Beetle. What I enjoyed most about the book was all the behind-the-scenes information—especially about the Andy Griffith show. Who knew that the ice cream that Opie ate on the show was really cold mashed potatoes (real ice cream melted too quickly under the hot lights) or that Otis’s jug was filled with apple juice and Opie used to sneak a swig. I got to hear about Ron working with John Wayne on The Shootist (my favorite John Wayne film.) Clint confesses to his alcohol and drug use as a teenager and young adult.
The only thing I regret about listening to this book is that I feel sure the book was probably filled with photographs from their lives, which I would love to see. I’ve enjoyed this so much that I just might read it again in print form the second time around.
The only thing I regret about listening to this book is that I feel sure the book was probably filled with photographs from their lives, which I would love to see. I’ve enjoyed this so much that I just might read it again in print form the second time around.
January 18, 2022
I’m an Andy Griffith Show junkie so I’ll always think of Ron Howard as opie. This memoir was interesting. Of course, I wanted more details about The Andy Griffith Show but that’s not the book’s purpose. It really shared the dynamics of the Howard family. It’s hard not to Finish the book and have the upmost respect for how the Howard’s went about living their lives.
February 15, 2022
A Captivating Memoir and Enjoyable Read
SUMMARY
In THE BOYS, Ron Howard and his younger brother, Clint, examine their childhood in detail for the first time. For Ron playing Opie on the Andy Griffith Show and Richard Cunningham on Happy Days offered fame and opportunity but also invited stress and bullying.
Clint starred on such programs as Gentle Ben and Star Trek but hit a wall in adolescence with some tough consequences and lessons.
The brothers dive deep into their childhood with the perspective of hindsight and success.—Ron, as a filmmaker and producer, and Clint, as a busy character actor. Their Midwestern parents, Rance and Jean, moved to California to pursue their own showbiz dreams. But it was their young sons who found steady employment as actors. Rance put aside his ego to become Ron and Clint’s teacher, interpreter, and moral compass. Jean became a loving protector from the snares of Hollywood.
THE BOYS is a two-person narrative that opens the door to the brothers' lives. It’s the tale of a tight-knit four-person family that held fast in an unforgiving business and two brothers who successfully survived “child–actor syndrome.”
“These pages capture a turning point in the entertainment industry, as told through the personal lens of one family.”
REVIEW
THE BOYS is a captivating memoir of two boys growing up in Hollywood and their astute parents who kept them straight. The writing is honest, straightforward, and enjoyable. As a sixties child, I grew up watching Ron and Clint Howard on TV. The book is compulsively readable and listening to the audiobook brought back many fond memories of watching these series with my family.
“Time moves more slowly when you’re young, because life is still new to you, a process of discovery.”
Publisher Harper Audio
Published October 11, 2021
Narrated Ron Howard and Clint Howard
Review www.bluestockingreviews.com
SUMMARY
In THE BOYS, Ron Howard and his younger brother, Clint, examine their childhood in detail for the first time. For Ron playing Opie on the Andy Griffith Show and Richard Cunningham on Happy Days offered fame and opportunity but also invited stress and bullying.
Clint starred on such programs as Gentle Ben and Star Trek but hit a wall in adolescence with some tough consequences and lessons.
The brothers dive deep into their childhood with the perspective of hindsight and success.—Ron, as a filmmaker and producer, and Clint, as a busy character actor. Their Midwestern parents, Rance and Jean, moved to California to pursue their own showbiz dreams. But it was their young sons who found steady employment as actors. Rance put aside his ego to become Ron and Clint’s teacher, interpreter, and moral compass. Jean became a loving protector from the snares of Hollywood.
THE BOYS is a two-person narrative that opens the door to the brothers' lives. It’s the tale of a tight-knit four-person family that held fast in an unforgiving business and two brothers who successfully survived “child–actor syndrome.”
“These pages capture a turning point in the entertainment industry, as told through the personal lens of one family.”
REVIEW
THE BOYS is a captivating memoir of two boys growing up in Hollywood and their astute parents who kept them straight. The writing is honest, straightforward, and enjoyable. As a sixties child, I grew up watching Ron and Clint Howard on TV. The book is compulsively readable and listening to the audiobook brought back many fond memories of watching these series with my family.
“Time moves more slowly when you’re young, because life is still new to you, a process of discovery.”
Publisher Harper Audio
Published October 11, 2021
Narrated Ron Howard and Clint Howard
Review www.bluestockingreviews.com
December 11, 2021
I’m a big fan of The Andy Griffith Show (I’ve watched it so many times over the years that I know most of the dialogue by heart)! I remember Gentle Ben but it’s not on TV anymore, but of course, I know Clint Howard from his appearances in many of his older brother Ron’s movies. So when I heard that the two of them were writing a memoir, I requested it from my library right away.
Both brothers are good writers and their book is very entertaining. I learned quite a lot that I didn’t know about their early family life. I knew both parents were actors and that their dad Rance had played different parts on the Andy Griffith show.
The book is structured so that they take turns writing about growing up and their careers. Their love for each other and their parents is genuine. I was kind of sad when I finished the book as I could have read more from both of the Howard brothers. I highly recommend this memoir!
Both brothers are good writers and their book is very entertaining. I learned quite a lot that I didn’t know about their early family life. I knew both parents were actors and that their dad Rance had played different parts on the Andy Griffith show.
The book is structured so that they take turns writing about growing up and their careers. Their love for each other and their parents is genuine. I was kind of sad when I finished the book as I could have read more from both of the Howard brothers. I highly recommend this memoir!
March 25, 2022
It seems I grew up with Ron Howard on my television. I watched Happy Days loyally. I also remember seeing (and perhaps not understanding) American Graffiti as a kid thanks to my older brother’s affinity for the film. Who knew both the Howard boys were destined for Hollywood?
Their story is really a homage to their parents. The young couple was determined to make it in Hollywood. When their plans got sidetracked, their offspring fulfilled the dream. But it doesn’t feel as if the Howard parents pushed their kids into celebrity. Ron and Clint truly love acting. Their father, Rance, guided them in their choices while respecting the craft.
The book is told in alternate POVs from Ron and Clint. It really focuses on their childhood into early adulthood. Ron doesn’t discuss the many movies he has directed (perhaps that will be a future book).
I liked this peek behind the curtains. There aren’t sensationalist undertones, just honest memories.
Their story is really a homage to their parents. The young couple was determined to make it in Hollywood. When their plans got sidetracked, their offspring fulfilled the dream. But it doesn’t feel as if the Howard parents pushed their kids into celebrity. Ron and Clint truly love acting. Their father, Rance, guided them in their choices while respecting the craft.
The book is told in alternate POVs from Ron and Clint. It really focuses on their childhood into early adulthood. Ron doesn’t discuss the many movies he has directed (perhaps that will be a future book).
I liked this peek behind the curtains. There aren’t sensationalist undertones, just honest memories.
November 20, 2021
This memoir by brothers Ron and Clint Howard was pretty interesting until Chapter 12, at which time I started skimming. Ron Howard often went on and on about topics that did not interest me. He also included personal things in the book about his life, as well as his parents' relationship that would have been better left out. There is quite a bit, however, about The Andy Griffith Show and Happy Days for fans of those two series.
Clint Howard has less to say in the book than his brother. The memoir would have been more interesting if he had talked more about his jobs on the many TV shows he did as a character actor. For example, he mentions doing a Streets of San Francisco, but says nothing else about it. It was entitled The House On Hyde Street and was one of the very best episodes of that series. I'll always remember that episode with him, Lew Ayres and Karl Malden. Yes, he does discuss Gentle Ben, as well as a famous Star Trek episode he did as a young child.
All in all, the book was a good look at an acting family that did not "go Hollywood". Plus, it was a unique look at a family where the parents wanted to be stars, but their sons ended up being the famous ones. They could have made more money for the family if they had capitalized more on Ron Howard's days as Opie Taylor, too, but they did not. They made sure he had a childhood where he had plenty of time to play and be a normal kid. They always watched out for their two sons and allowed no one to use or abuse them.
P.S. I tried to post this review at Amazon, but could not because: Amazon has noticed unusual reviewing activity on this product. Due to this activity, we have limited this product to verified purchase reviews." (I got my copy from the library.) Looking at the reviews, there are quite a few by reviewers who have done very few reviews, so that can be a sign of "suspicious behavior". But most reviewers look to have enough reviews that makes them seem quite legit. The number of positive votes, too, does not seem that odd considering this is going to be a popular book, especially due to fans of the Andy Griffith show.
The only review less than 4 stars, however, was complaining about receiving a damaged book, while still calling the book excellent. Plus, there were 51 ratings at the time I tried to post, but only 17 reviews, so it might be there were lots of 5-star ratings as soon as the book was released, giving the impression that it couldn't have been read that quickly to justify the votes. But who knows? I'm certainly not going to buy a copy so I can post a review at Amazon about it. After reading it, I was happy I didn't buy a copy.
UPDATE 11/20/21: I would check back at Amazon every now and then to see if I could post a review. Last night I could. So, if anyone else didn't buy the book and couldn't post a review, try now.
Clint Howard has less to say in the book than his brother. The memoir would have been more interesting if he had talked more about his jobs on the many TV shows he did as a character actor. For example, he mentions doing a Streets of San Francisco, but says nothing else about it. It was entitled The House On Hyde Street and was one of the very best episodes of that series. I'll always remember that episode with him, Lew Ayres and Karl Malden. Yes, he does discuss Gentle Ben, as well as a famous Star Trek episode he did as a young child.
All in all, the book was a good look at an acting family that did not "go Hollywood". Plus, it was a unique look at a family where the parents wanted to be stars, but their sons ended up being the famous ones. They could have made more money for the family if they had capitalized more on Ron Howard's days as Opie Taylor, too, but they did not. They made sure he had a childhood where he had plenty of time to play and be a normal kid. They always watched out for their two sons and allowed no one to use or abuse them.
P.S. I tried to post this review at Amazon, but could not because: Amazon has noticed unusual reviewing activity on this product. Due to this activity, we have limited this product to verified purchase reviews." (I got my copy from the library.) Looking at the reviews, there are quite a few by reviewers who have done very few reviews, so that can be a sign of "suspicious behavior". But most reviewers look to have enough reviews that makes them seem quite legit. The number of positive votes, too, does not seem that odd considering this is going to be a popular book, especially due to fans of the Andy Griffith show.
The only review less than 4 stars, however, was complaining about receiving a damaged book, while still calling the book excellent. Plus, there were 51 ratings at the time I tried to post, but only 17 reviews, so it might be there were lots of 5-star ratings as soon as the book was released, giving the impression that it couldn't have been read that quickly to justify the votes. But who knows? I'm certainly not going to buy a copy so I can post a review at Amazon about it. After reading it, I was happy I didn't buy a copy.
UPDATE 11/20/21: I would check back at Amazon every now and then to see if I could post a review. Last night I could. So, if anyone else didn't buy the book and couldn't post a review, try now.
December 28, 2022
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EXTRA EXTRA: Here’s the Naked Truth about Opie Taylor.
I feel so cheap. I just happen to see this memoir of Ron Howard and his brother Clint sitting on a table at the library when something snapped in me. A celebrity bio has to be awash with scandals, especially one about child actors. I scooped it up, self-checked out, rushed out the door before any could see me with this tell all, hid under my bed and began to dig.
Here’s some of the dirt I discovered about the life of the real Opie Taylor:
Was Andy Griffith a tyrant who constantly belittled little Ronnie Howard? No, even when he was 8-years-old, Ron admired Andy’s work ethic and applied it to his own professional life latter in life.
Ron’s parents were struggling actors. Didn’t they take advantage of Ronnie and Clint, spent all the money the boys made as poor innocent child actors, and sang Rose’s Turn to them as a lullaby at night? No, they were supportive and saved all of Ron and Clint's earnings in an escrow account that the boys couldn’t access until were eighteen.
Didn’t Ron turn into one of those spoiled, troubled child actors? No. After the Andy Griffith Show went off the air. Ron went to a public high school, edited the school paper, played on the school’s basketball team, coached his younger brother’s basketball team for several years, and sometimes teased his mother. What a creep!
OK, but Fonzi on Happy Days was a real arse, right? No, he and Ron were great friends. The Fonz was in Ron’s wedding, they are still best buds today.
I am a monster. I not only read a celebrity bio without finding any scandals except for the teasing his mother thing, I enjoyed it. Yes, I liked it. I couldn’t stop turning the pages.
Note: If you are too young to have watched The Andy Griffith Show or Happy Days, the references in my review probably went over your head. Not my problem. You should have gotten a better education while you had the chance. Too late now.
EXTRA EXTRA: Here’s the Naked Truth about Opie Taylor.
I feel so cheap. I just happen to see this memoir of Ron Howard and his brother Clint sitting on a table at the library when something snapped in me. A celebrity bio has to be awash with scandals, especially one about child actors. I scooped it up, self-checked out, rushed out the door before any could see me with this tell all, hid under my bed and began to dig.
Here’s some of the dirt I discovered about the life of the real Opie Taylor:
Was Andy Griffith a tyrant who constantly belittled little Ronnie Howard? No, even when he was 8-years-old, Ron admired Andy’s work ethic and applied it to his own professional life latter in life.
Ron’s parents were struggling actors. Didn’t they take advantage of Ronnie and Clint, spent all the money the boys made as poor innocent child actors, and sang Rose’s Turn to them as a lullaby at night? No, they were supportive and saved all of Ron and Clint's earnings in an escrow account that the boys couldn’t access until were eighteen.
Didn’t Ron turn into one of those spoiled, troubled child actors? No. After the Andy Griffith Show went off the air. Ron went to a public high school, edited the school paper, played on the school’s basketball team, coached his younger brother’s basketball team for several years, and sometimes teased his mother. What a creep!
OK, but Fonzi on Happy Days was a real arse, right? No, he and Ron were great friends. The Fonz was in Ron’s wedding, they are still best buds today.
I am a monster. I not only read a celebrity bio without finding any scandals except for the teasing his mother thing, I enjoyed it. Yes, I liked it. I couldn’t stop turning the pages.
Note: If you are too young to have watched The Andy Griffith Show or Happy Days, the references in my review probably went over your head. Not my problem. You should have gotten a better education while you had the chance. Too late now.
July 31, 2021
The Boys felt like you were listening in at an extended family reunion of the Howards as Ron and Clint held court, retelling some of their favorite family anecdotes from years gone by, the stories everyone knows and the stories that no one has heard before, occasionally interruping each other with interjections and sometimes just telling the same story from the other lens. I could not put it down, but now I have an enormous list of classics to rewatch and bit parts (and B-movies) to look up and cameos to watch for.
July 8, 2022
I received this as a gift from a beloved friend. This was a special book that left me with many memories that had faded and warmed my heart as I remembered the shared laughter of watching many of these shows and these boys growing up with my family. The icing on the cake was reading about the knowledge and insight about the industry I never knew.
I really appreciated the format for the book they chose …so like brothers! A class act book! Their parents would be proud!
I really appreciated the format for the book they chose …so like brothers! A class act book! Their parents would be proud!
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