Fields never got around to writing his autobiography, but at his death in 1946, he left behind a vast assortment of notes, outlines, scrapbooks, letters, scripts, scenarios, and photographs. Now his grandson, Ronald J. Fields, has edited and woven this wealth of previously unpublished material into a unique new portrait of the Great One--in his own words. This book establishes the true facts about W.C. Fields's early years: how, around 1895, he really got started juggling; how met his future wife Hattie; and how he felt about his incessant tours, triumphs, and film career.

In this wonderful parody from 1940, W.C. Fields announces his candidacy for America's highest office. He offers sound advice on a number of topics in classic Fields-style humor in his attempt to win votes. "Campaign resolutions are no better than New Year's resolutions," he writes. "They are thrown together hastily at the last minute, with never a thought as to how they may be gracefully broken. Now, I am a candidate with years of experience breaking New Year's resolutions, and what I can accomplish with those, I can certainly accomplish with campaign resolutions."

Provides a revealing glimpse of the man and artist behind the image of the gin-guzzling misanthrope, discussing Fields' Philadelphia childhood, his career in vaudeville, his turbulent personal life, and his seminal film work.

At his death in 1946, W.C. Fields left behind a vast assortment of notes, outlines, scrapbooks, letters, scripts, scenarios, and photographs. His grandson, Ronald J. Fields, has edited and woven this wealth of hitherto unpublished material into a unique new portrait of the great one--in his own words.

As the 21st century looms and business cynicism increases, W.C. Fields holds up a mirror for readers that uncannily reflects the state of the late 20th-century business world. Photos.