The Boys by Ron Howard and Clint Howard is subtitled “A Memoir of Hollywood and Family”. Since, Ron Howard is three years older than me, it could just be titled a nostalgic look into the past. The brothers alternate telling the stories of their family and their careers in television and movies. They grew up as child stars who eventually took different directions in show business. But, their story of their childhood is grounded on solid midwestern ethics and family love and support.
Their parents were from Oklahoma, but Rance and Jean Howard left for New York City and eventually California, hoping to make it into show business. The brothers tell of their parents attempts to make it in the business. Jean eventually quit, and worked in the background, but Rance spent his entire life taking roles in movies and television. But, when young Ron couldn’t even read yet, he found success. With his freckles and red hair, he was in demand. His father didn’t pressure his son, but he was always there as the “child whisperer”, helping his son learn to deal with the business.
Ron Howard’s success came with “The Music Man” and “The Andy Griffith Show”. He claims Andy Griffith and his dad effectively charted his course in the business, and, others guided and assisted him in his wish to be a producer. He had a second successful series with “Happy Days”, and found another family with that cast, especially Henry Winkler. Ron was the one on the straight and narrow, while Clint struggled with addictions from the time he was fourteen.
Clint had a number of roles in “Bonanza”, “Star Trek”, and three years in “Gentle Ben”. But, like other child stars, he had a troubled adolescence. He spiraled into drugs, from marijuana to cocaine. While his family tried to help, he had to find his own recovery.
Ron Howard, as the older brother, and the one most successful on television, writes the greatest part of the book, but they do work closely to tell the stories of their childhood. So many of us will remember Ron Howard as he grew up on television. Clint might not be as recognizable, but he’s had a successful, long career in show business.
The book is a nostalgic trip into the past as the brothers share stories of Andy Griffith, Don Knotts, John Wayne, Dennis Weaver, Henry Fonda, and so many others they were lucky enough to work with. Those of us of a certain age will enjoy the memories. Best of all, they share a story of a family “bonded by love”. Readers can be grateful that Ron and Clint Howard took the time to share their memories of the “Howard family culture, one of warmth, encouragement, and gratitude.”
The Boys: A Memoir of Hollywood and Family by Ron Howard and Clint Howard. William Morrow, 2021. ISBN 9780063065246 (hardcover), 393p.
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I can highly recommend this one too. Ron is 5 years younger than me. After reading this, we watched his APOLLO 13 again, and enjoyed it as much as the first time. He is a very talented guy and I thoroughly enjoyed the book. And I’ve gotten a kick out of some of the goofy roles Clint has played over the years. He and Dad were in (most or all of) the movies Ron directed too, and Mom has a memorable role as Jim Lovell’s mother in APOLLO 13.
The book made me want to watch Apollo 13 again, too, Jeff, just to see their mother in the film.
I’ve heard Ron on podcasts twice recently, once with Clint. There is just something about Ron that feels so grounded–I really admire him. I’ve been trying to get the book for ages, but now it’s on my library list so it shouldn’t be long. Can’t wait!
Margie, Even when you read the book, you’ll discover that he feels grounded. As much as we always admired him as an actor, director and producer, I think there’s even more reason to admire him as a person after reading The Boys.
I admire Ron. He’s one of the few child actors that stayed grounded. I grew up watching the Andy Griffith shows and have seen him in The Music Man. I’ve enjoyed Apollo 13 and a few other movies he has directed.
Bonnie, Even when he went through a rebellious phase, he still remained grounded. He and Clint are honest about their adolescent years. Terrific book.
I haven’t read this book, but I’m glad those who have liked it.
I really do think, Rick, this book would be wonderful if people listen to it.