What happens when a girl tries to grow up in a world where everyone wants her to remain a child?
Hayley Mills’ teenage decade in Hollywood produced some of the era’s greatest coming-of-age family movies: classics like Pollyanna, The Parent Trap and In Search of the Castaways, and in Britain the acclaimed Whistle Down the Wind. These films made Hayley a genuine teen idol and a household name. Now and for the first time, Hayley reveals the truth of her own coming-of-age story, in her own words – a story of incredible twists of fate and fortune, but also mismanagement, bankruptcy, family crisis and dislocation.
Told with characteristic warmth, honesty and humour, Hayley takes us back in time to a bygone era, charting a journey from her carefree childhood innocence in post-war Britain, growing up in the shadow of her famous theatrical family, to being propelled into the Technicolor boomtown of 1960s Hollywood, where she is mentored to stardom by Walt Disney himself.
Embark on a captivating journey through the extraordinary life of Hayley Mills, the iconic star of beloved family films, in her revealing and deeply personal memoir, "Forever Young: A Memoir." This hardcover edition offers an intimate look behind the scenes of a childhood transformed by Hollywood stardom, familial complexities, and the relentless pursuit of maintaining an image. Hayley Mills, a name synonymous with youthful innocence and heartwarming cinema, invites readers to experience her coming-of-age story as never before. From her carefree early years in post-war Britain, nurtured within a celebrated theatrical family, to her meteoric rise in the dazzling Technicolor world of 1960s Hollywood, Mills paints a vivid portrait of a life both enchanting and challenging. "Forever Young" delves into the whirlwind of her teenage decade, during which she starred in unforgettable classics like *Pollyanna*, *The Parent Trap*, and *In Search of the Castaways*. These films catapulted her to teen idol status, making her a household name across the globe. But behind the bright lights and adoring fans lay a more nuanced reality. Mills candidly recounts the experience of being mentored by Walt Disney himself, a relationship that significantly shaped her career and personal life. Beyond the glamour, this memoir unflinchingly addresses the complexities of navigating adolescence under the intense scrutiny of fame. Mills opens up about the difficulties of trying to grow up in a world that seemed determined to keep her forever young, a world where her on-screen persona often overshadowed her true self. "Forever Young" doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of her journey, exploring the mismanagement of her earnings, the devastating impact of bankruptcy, and the family crises that tested her resilience. This is not just a story of Hollywood success; it's a story of perseverance, self-discovery, and the struggle to maintain one's identity amidst extraordinary circumstances. Reviews have lauded the memoir for its honesty, warmth, and humor, qualities that shine through on every page. Readers will find themselves captivated by Mills' engaging storytelling, her ability to transport them back to a bygone era, and her unflinching willingness to share the joys and sorrows that shaped her life. Expect to discover a compelling narrative that's both nostalgic and surprisingly revealing. It's a story that celebrates the magic of cinema while offering a clear-eyed and deeply personal account of the challenges of growing up in the spotlight. Whether you're a lifelong fan of Hayley Mills, a lover of classic Hollywood films, or simply someone seeking an inspiring and relatable memoir, "Forever Young" is a must-read. It's a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit and a reminder that even in the face of adversity, it's possible to forge your own path and define your own narrative. This book is a compelling journey of an iconic actress and is suitable for readers of all ages who want to learn the real story behind the camera.
