Number One Is Walking: My Life in the Movies and Other Diversions, by Steve Martin , Harry Bliss (Illustrations)

 

I checked this out of the library today and finished it this evening. Does that tell you anything? I also just went and added Harry Bliss to my list of comics to check regularly. His drawings here range from cute and, well, comic type renderings and occasionally to some portrait worthy artwork of various people mentioned in the book. This is probably where I should let you know that Steve Martin's story seems to take up only a bit more than half of the book, the rest devoted to Bliss' work. And, hey, there's a dog throughout, Penny, who frequently gets to add her thoughts via the standard comic dialogue bubble.,

As for Martin's life in the movies covered within, it was typical Martin. Lots of humor, of course, but one can only hope there will be a part two to share more detail. This is the first time he's really made an effort to share the story of his life in movies, however, and what he does share is intriguing, often humorous, and even a bit melancholy at times, such as his thoughts on the late John Candy and Robin Williams. And, for those "Only Murders in the Building" fans reading this, yes, he does mention meeting Martin Short and later mentions the OMITB show but doesn't go anty further. After all, the focus here is on his movies, not television. Somewhere along the line, however, having seen his enjoyment of writing, one has to hope it will be covered in future books.

Bottom line, although somewhat disappointed that the entire book wasn't devoted entirely to Steve Martin himself, hence I'd probably rate it a 4.5, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Reading Bliss' comic offerings, one can understand why Steve Martin was drawn to him as a collaborator. Looking forward to the next book, narrative, illustrated, or acted out by puppets (well, as long as he includes Penny) or whatever. Kudos to Celadon Books for being the physical arm for the creative talents of Steve Martin and Harry Bliss.