This absorbing biography of one of the entertainment world's best-known and loved personalities traces in fascinating detail the great entertainer's multi-sided career. It also gives a unique insight into Bob Hope, the man behind the public image. Peter Carrick not only takes the reader into the world of show business, but also explores the disasters, disappointments, fear and frustrations of one of the world's greatest comics. Though born in England, Bob moved to America at the age of four, where, as a teenager, he worked his way up through the jungle of American vaudeville as a comic, musician, actor, singer and dancer, before gaining fame on Broadway and rising to become one of the biggest stars on radio during the 1930s and 1940s. He then moved to Hollywood where, after an unsteady start, he soared to stardom, becoming one of the biggest box office attractions of all time. In contrast to the uncertainty and insecurity of professional life in show business, here is the personal story of Bob's enduring marriage to Dolores and of their four adopted children, of his extensive business interests, his obsession with golf and his love of Britain. fans throughout the world who is looking forward to celebrating his 100th birthday in May 2003.