Never Have Your Dog Stuffed And Other Things I Have Learned

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Alan Alda's autobiography takes a unique approach, presenting his life as a memory play rather than a sensationalist narrative. He reflects on his childhood, his parents—particularly his father, a veteran of stage and film—and his career, dedicating only 16 pages to his iconic eleven years on M*A*S*H, which turns out to be one of the least engaging sections. However, this slim memoir is far from unworthy for fans; it is slyly humorous and open-hearted, making for a breezy and enjoyable read. Alda's vivid recollections of his childhood, including his experiences backstage at vaudeville shows, school years, and the ups and downs of his acting career, are as captivating as his Emmy-winning scripts. He skillfully captures life's pivotal moments, from his evolving views on religion to the impact of a small object in his pocket that improved his acting. His humor shines through, whether recounting his charming love story with his wife Arlene or a harrowing illness in Chile. Alda's narrative is relatable and grounded, with what might be filler in other memoirs becoming some of the most entertaining and insightful content, especially regarding his parents. The title, inspired by a mishap at a taxidermist, reflects his unique perspective. At the time of publication, he was enjoying a career revival, earning nominations for an Oscar, Emmy, and Tony in the same year.