In this memoir, Hinkle recounts his career in Hollywood as a speech coach, actor, producer, and director, as well as his friendships with celebrities like James Dean and Elizabeth Taylor. He tells how he helped actors like Rock Hudson and Dennis Hopper talk like Texans in Giant; created a character with Paul Newman for Hud; and taught Natalie Wood how to throw a rope. His acting career in shows such as Gunsmoke and Walker, Texas Ranger is recalled, as is managing the careers of Marty Robbins and Evel Knievel. B&w photos and a filmography are included. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)