The Wall of Life

Pictures and Stories from This Marvelous Lifetime

By: Shirley MacLaine

Narrated by: Shirley MacLaine

Academy Award-winning actress and New York Times bestselling author Shirley MacLaine shares a dazzling memoir in photographs, chronicling her extraordinary life with 150+ images from her personal archive

With more than seventy years on the silver screen, Shirley MacLaine has, as she says, seen it all, done it all, been everywhere, and met everyone. Since making her Hollywood debut in 1955, her popularity has only grown as she’s amassed a stunning collection of awards and written multiple bestselling memoirs.

Now, at ninety years old, MacLaine has more stories to tell and the pictures to bring them to life. By introducing readers to her extensive photo collection—which she calls her “wall of life”—MacLaine reveals both intimate family memories and images with some of the most significant figures from entertainment and politics. With wit and charm, she reflects on each photo, exploring ambition, love, friendship, motherhood, art, political activism, curiosity, and more.

Charting the course of her remarkable life and career, MacLaine shares both early memories (her childhood with her brother, Warren Beatty; her decision to leave for New York City at age sixteen; her early work dancing on Broadway) as well as remembrances of her days in the public eye (campaigning for George McGovern, traveling to meet political luminaries, starring in legendary film roles, and developing an interest in spirituality).

Along the way, readers gain greater insight into figures such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Bob Fosse, Jack Nicholson, the Dalai Lama, Fidel Castro, Mikhail Baryshnikov, and many more. Whether she's sharing what advice Elvis Presley asked her for, how she consoled close friend Elizabeth Taylor after the death of her husband, or which head of state she discussed UFOs with, MacLaine offers her most visual and delightful book yet, giving readers an unprecedented glance into a life like no other.


* This audiobook edition includes a downloadable PDF of photos from the book.

Critic reviews

“A worldly life journey candidly reflected in photos and captions . . . MacLaine’s images and captions cumulatively reflect an enviable, well-lived existence, offering glimpses into her world travels, family, friends, and various love affairs . . .”—Kirkus Reviews

How she retains her youthful attitude even in her nineties.

There wasn’t anything to dislike. I liked the fact that she revealed herself as an adventurous real person and not a narcissistic actress.

I love that she read it herself. Love that girl! Always have!

Shirley MacLaine is such an authentic person and her curiosity and open mindedness makes her interesting and magnetic! I trust her, and that is a precious feeling.

Interesting but too short.

I did not think the book was long enough to qualify for 1 credit. It was just too short.
The information was just OK. I feel she could have related much more about her life.

Oh Shirley....

Extraordinary life to dance your way thru! Gloriously spoken as if in personal conversation. What a Full Ride Life!! Would LOVE to actually See your "Life Wall" !!!

At The Top

Another gem by her Royalness, I consider. Shirley has been such an integral force of nature for the esoteric for over a half a century. Touching countless individuals, paving the way of the inward path but doing so in varied ways that I think has been unprecedented. I just lover her, and I love as well as appreciate Shirley soooo freakin much!!! From her first book to this, I’ve studied the moves & words she’s shared with Us. She’s offered herself so freely & with a passion. Giving her the flowers she deserves🌸🪻🌹🌸🌼🌻🌷🌺🌸🪻🌹so much love♥️♥️♥️♥️💖