Charles Thompson, Bing Crosby's official biographer, now looks at the other half of the partnership. Bob Hope was born in Eltham, a London suburb, in 1903 and his parents emigrated to Cleveland, Ohio in 1908. Today he is one of the most popular entertainers of all time, and also one of the wealthiest men in America. Bob Hope has freely discussed his life and work: the famous screen partnership with Bing Crosby; his long and happy marriage (a rarity in Hollywood); the growth of his business interests in property and film-making; his unstinting generosity, raising vast sums for charity with stage shows, dinners, and golf tournaments; his Christmas shoes for American troops based overseas beginning during World War II and ending only with the Vietnam war; his friendships with eight American presidents; and his huge appetite for work. Many people who know Bob Hope well--from his family, long serving members of his large staff of writers; his co-stars and film producers--have contributed their own memories, completing a vivid portrait of a fascinating man.