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  • The Moon's a Balloon

  • By: David Niven
  • Narrated by: David Niven
  • Length: 2 hrs and 13 mins
  • 4.5 out of 5 stars (40 ratings)

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The Moon's a Balloon

By: David Niven
Narrated by: David Niven
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Publisher's Summary

When The Moon's a Balloon was first published in 1971, it received huge acclaim. The book became a classic and has gone on to sell over five million copies worldwide.

Rich in hilarious anecdote, it tells the story of Niven's school and Sandhurst days, his posting to Malta with the Highland Light Infantry, and how he escaped the army for a new life in the States. There he joined New York high society, before crossing the continent, lured by Hollywood. He returned to Britain to serve during the Second World War, but then made Hollywood his home.

A self-confessed name dropper, Niven's encounters range from garden walks with Churchill to finding Greta Garbo swimming naked in his pool.

©1971 Marulto Establishment (P)2005 Headline Audiobooks

Critic Reviews

"An immensely enjoyable, witty and racy memoir." ( Sunday Times)
"Forthright, bawdy, and often hilarious, zany and zestful, his anecdotes should keep you entertained for hours." ( Sunday Express)

What listeners say about The Moon's a Balloon

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    5 out of 5 stars
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Great era in movieland

This book was about a fine actor whom lived through the same era as my father and as such I related to the live for the day ethos that prevailed during war time. Serendipity played its part in Niven's life and took him on a great journey where life was for living. Tragedy in life also was what made him the gentleman he was.
I am looking forward to part two Bring on the empty horses.

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    5 out of 5 stars
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What a life !

David Niven looked like he might be such a naughty boy that he’d end up a crook ! But he did not! Some was luck some was hard work but he fought on and made it with a wicked sense of humour and a charming manner. Great book

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

would prefer unabridged version

too short on detail - lose the richness of David's stories. left me wanting more

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3 people found this helpful

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    3 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Very abridged

I have read and enjoyed the book but so much is missing in this audio book. Sorry that I wasted a credit on it

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