Book 168 - Dick Van Dyke - Keep moving

Dick Van Dyke is a phenomenon…born in Dec 1925…still acting and dancing in his 90s. Famous for having his own show in the 60s…starring in Diagnosis Murder in the 90s and then a return to the character 10 years later…never mind his star turn in both Mary Poppins and Mary Poppins Returns…Dick Van Dyke is incredible.

This book first published in 2015 is a joy from start to finish…part biographical…part raconteur story telling…his wit…his charm…his honesty and openness in why he keeps moving is so engaging.

My favourite story is when he is getting a check up and his doctor tells him he is riddled with arthritis…literally from head to toe…every inch …he will soon be unable to walk and will need to use a wheelchair…Van Dyke then proceeds to get up and dance round the office…this was a check up when he turned 40…

He keeps moving …with his children…grandchildren…great grandchildren and wife. The book reads as a who’s who of entertainment.

When asked about ‘acting his age’ , he is very quick to respond how does one act ? Should he be sitting in an armchair…slippers on…having hot cocoa? He continues by simply saying he does what he does because he loves life…he dances through each day…singing and humming and welcoming each day as a special time.

Other snippets include how he will never appear in anything that his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren couldn’t watch…whether due to violence or language. He speaks at length about how helping is always better than hating. His warmth and wit shines through in every chapter… having a sense of humour allows us to make sense of humour…love it.

It is literally a joy to be in this man’s company and be part of this incredible life…even in this small way…simply joyful. It is subtitled ‘…and other tips and truths about aging’ …nothing could be further from the truth…it is simply a book about living…

He loves life and lives to love. ( )

I’ve been a fan of Dick VanDyke’s since my childhood. I’ve had this book tagged to check out of my local library for a long time, and when I needed to find another audio book, I decided to get it. Dick narrates the book, which is wonderfully read by him. I had to remind myself that Dick is still alive because when I realized the book came out in 2015, nine years ago, and Dick was 90 at the time, I did the math in my head to realize that the man is nearly 100. I hope he makes it to that milestone, and I have no reason to think that he won’t. Dick talks about his career, but he talks more about lessons his long life have taught him. But he doesn’t preach even when he gets to the subject of religion at the very end of the book. He and I are on the same page on social and political issues, so that helped. I’m not a fan of self help books, but this book didn’t seem like self help. It seemed more like wisdom from an elder statesman. Being 74 myself, I’m not in much of a mood to listen to anyone tell me how to live what’s left of my life, and Dick didn’t do that. What he said, however, applies to anyone regardless of age, so I’m glad I read it, and I encourage you to too. ( )

Listening to Dick Van Dyke read this book of his is like listening to a beloved but kookie uncle ramble about all sorts of random things that come to his mind. I don’t know that my life is richer for having listened to it, but it was an okay way to spend a few hours. I think Dick’s message can be boiled down to this: Don’t forget to LIVE your life.

That all said, there are some douchey parts - his stealing the show at his wife’s dance performance immediately comes to mind. I also have a really hard time getting past the idea that his wife is 46 years younger than him. I mean, it’s none of my business, but… ick. ( )

Part memoir, part book of advice, I chose to listen to the audiobook, which Dick Van Dyke reads himself. Though I’m a few years younger than the book’s primary audience, I still enjoyed the advice, humor, and sections about Van Dyke’s life. As can often happen when you don’t already know much (if anything) about an actor’s real self and tend to conflate his/her on-screen appearances with real life, it was a bit jarring to hear some of the things about his life. However, I’ve read reviews for the full memoir he wrote a few years before this, and it sounds like this is pretty tame in comparison. I had planned to read that too, but I think I’ll leave it at this.

Some of my favorite parts involved Van Dyke’s brother Jerry Van Dyke, who seems to have a considerably different (and quite humorous) outlook on getting older. I was particularly surprised to learn that Van Dyke has never had any formal dance training; I am one, apparently of many, who always assumed he had. I appreciate parts of his outlook on life, while some of his take on politics and religion left me shaking my head. When he basically says that no one can really know the truth about God, I think to myself, “Is that the truth?” It’s an age-old argument that probably never solves anything, though. In the end, I mostly enjoyed this book, and if you plan to read it, I highly recommend the audiobook. ( )

For once, I am really glad I listened to a book instead of read it. This felt like sitting down with Dick Van Dyke and having him share stories and insights with me. All my life I have enjoyed talking to older people and hearing their stories and having one of my favorites do it was awesome. 'He talked about so many things in this book. He talks about his family and friends. He talks about politics and religion. He talks about aging and mostly, he spoke about love. He made me laugh and he made me cry. I loved how he spoke about his wives, all three of them. He has been a lucky man to have found the "love of his life" more than once. I loved the part when he was talking about his dog and his current wife. I could see his wife slowly falling for the dog and becoming his greatest defender. I loved hearing him talk about his brother Jerry. I could have listened for many more chapters.

I highly recommend this book to anyone. There were great things about every chapter. ( )

Wonderful and inspirational. He was 89 when he wrote this, is 95 now (96 in three weeks) and still moving! Love it! "Age is something you do not think about until it happens, and I am here to inform you it happens slowly, with a sneaky tap on the shoulder." I was born two months before his The Dick Van Dyke Show premiered... he did something so iconic 60 years ago! And some would think that at 60, I'd be "old"...I'm not (but I am getting that tapping more often!)

I like to intersperse memoirs in my readings - they give me a different perspective and more often than not, a lesson or three. With Mr. Van Dyke, there are more than "or three" lessons here. "Real love, as I have come to know it, is when you care about the other person as much as you care about yourself. You can’t make another person happy, but you can pave the way for them to make themselves happy." And "TIP: Old age is not the time to be scared. Instead, be curious."
Great stuff, recommended. One section resonated especially:
“So what do I think really matters?
1. Family and friends
2. Questions
3. Music
4. Books
5. A Sense of Humor”
He explains each, and I've just listed the bullets, but no surprise, these are all what matter to me as well (though I’d swap music and books!)

A few other selected tips and truths:
These are Baby Boomers, the generation who once screamed, “Hope I die before I get old.” That line should be rewritten, “Hope I die before I feel old.” That is the crux of the matter.

People make To-Do lists, and he suggests also making a "high-level, more philosophical To Do list,

And then there is the list nobody makes, the NOT To-Do list.
1.Do not forget to exercise.
2.Do not stop being curious.
3.Do not forget to try new things—even a new flavor of ice cream will do.
4.Do not forget to open your mind every day.
5.Do not stop asking why do I believe what I believe.
6.Do not forget to smile.
7.Do not forget to make someone else smile.

Yep. He was done with Christianity back in the 1960s ("lost my taste for organized religion"), but says he wasn't done with religion yet. He started going to Congregation Beth Ohr

I attended services for about six months and then lost touch with the rabbi until not too long ago when our paths happened to cross. He was in his nineties. “What do you do now?” I asked. “I’m still learning,” he said. “Still reading and learning.”

Things to aspire to...

This

I remember bumping into Fred Astaire when he was in his early eighties, younger than I am now but still up there. “Do you still dance?” I asked. “Yes,” he said. “But it hurts now.” That might be the best summation I have heard of old age. You do the same things you always did—or try to—except that it hurts. You continue to move. It just takes longer.

And

One last note: I hope I don’t come off in this book as thinking I know everything—I don’t. I don’t claim to know much of anything unless it involves lyrics and a tune. But I do know this:
If you are young, get used to having old people around. There’s only going to be more of us—including you!
If you are middle-aged, don’t think about getting old.
If you are already old, congratulations, you now know what I know! There is no finish line. Stay open to whatever happens. Don’t be scared of dying. Be more frightened that you haven’t finished living. Make living a life achievement.
Keep moving.
Or, as the kids say, #KeepMoving.

That's what I intend to do! ( )

Torn on the rating. Possibly a 2.
Never have I wanted to debate politics with a writer more. And never have I felt more like the author had an agenda more than when I read this book.
#frustrated ( )

Keep Moving is Dick Van Dyke's memoir and ode to aging. Written as he was about to turn 90, Dick has a lot of opinions and advice on the subject. Most of it boils down to the title, Keep Moving! Stay active, keep doing those things you enjoy for as long as possible and let your inner child play so you can stay young at heart. I especially enjoyed the chapter where he briefly reviewed the historical events he's witnessed and wish this section had been longer. Still, all the anecdotes and advice are entertaining and enjoyable to read.

I listened to the audio book narrated by the author. Dick's joy and love of life comes through brilliantly both in his writing and narration. There are a couple sections where he reads off long lists and the points kind of blend together, which might have been better reading for yourself rather than listening.

Currently available on Audible Plus. ( )

5 Stars - I am of an age where I have a fond place in my heart for Dick van Dyke from his TV shows and his movies. He wrote a book last year called: "Keep Moving and other tips and truths about aging" He's 90 years old now and this book is full of his spirit, joy, energy and wisdom. But, i recommend you not read the book. Instead get the audio book from Audible or your library, because Dick van Dyke narrates the book himself, and he has not lost any of his ability to communicate with passion. Not only did i need this book, but i am so very glad i stumbled across it. It's perfect for those of us who have turned the corner past 60 and want to get some perspective and advice from someone we respect. I can't recommend this book highly enough. It's a joy, it's uplifting, it's funny, and most importantly it's real. He gives an honest, yet optimistic look at old age. He doesn't ignore health issues and pain, but he takes a bigger perspective in his life's view and his advice. ( )

This is a memoir by Dick Van Dyke about mostly his older years. He has tips and advice on aging. None of the advice was really new but he says everything in such a positive and upbeat way, that it was enjoyable to listen to (it was audio read by Van Dyke). In general, he continues to learn and try new things and makes adjustments to his abilities as needed. Then he keeps going. He was 89 at the time of this book and seems to take his own advice and enjoy life. ( )

Aging and keeping fit are two topics that interest me more and more these days. Dick Van Dyke is in his nineties, still singing and dancing and as he likes to tells us, still enjoying life to the full. His secret? Keep moving!! Getting older he says, has the benefit of letting us do what we want when we want. So, when he feels like dancing in a store because the music is catchy, he does. He likes to go to the gym where he lifts weights and walks on the treadmill. He does a daily crossword to exercise his brain and eats ice-cream every night for dessert. You won't find any recipes or diet advice here, nor will you find any exercise routines. It's all about what works for him, and what works for him is to keep moving, everyday! It's written in a chatty style and although I found it very 'American' it was friendly take on life. ( )

Review: Keep Moving by Dick Van Dyke. 4.5 Stars 07/14/2017

This witty person is a very entertaining advisor. This book is all about aging and how to stay young. Dick Van Dyke wrote some good advice, tips, and facts that were thought provoking. Dyke writes about his health, spirit, and his general outlook on life and emotional well-being, dealing with grief and many other issues. I can agree with his view of life so I felt the book was strongly helpful to read. He is ninety-years-old going on fifty. He writes about physical fitness, mental awareness, spiritual and emotional topics.

Dick Van Dyke is still active, sings and dances and refuses to feel “Old”. He claims his secret is “Keep Moving”. He writes that you don’t have to act your age or even feel it because there is no such thing as “age appropriate”. As far as he knows there is no manual for old age and no test to pass. Dyke’s optimistic outlook is a stimulating reminder that life should be lived with enthusiasm despite whatever really matters in life just enjoy and be positive. If you sometimes stray toward a negative thought turn it around to a positive side.

This book is inspiriting, enjoyable, heartwarming and educating. I know it has changed my views on some of my “old age” issues. ( )

I have just finished reading this book and I feel great! I've got the genes and I'm going to make the most of it. I'm a mere 77 this year, born in 1940. I come away from this book written by a favourite actor, Dick Van Dyke who has reinforced in me the fact that you need to "Keep Moving" whether by memories and thought, dancing and exercising or just exercising your brain. These are brought home to me every day since Mom turned 100 Dec. 23, 2016 and my Dad turns 100 May 27, 2017, living in their own home and yes, they dance. They have a stuffed musical bear that sings; my Dad grabs the bear and Mom and away they go. Oh, his cousin also turned 100 in January, 2017. So yes, I have the genes. But now after reading "Keep Moving" I have the instruction book, so to speak.

While I was at Mom & Dad's last December, in fact right up to and after Mom's 100th birthday, she was reading this book. I was fascinated, because she doesn't read a lot of books. She kept telling me, "I'm really enjoying this book." With that in mind, when I came back home, I bought 2 of them, one for myself and one for my 94 year old neighbour, my lifeline and pal who I have shared so much history with since moving to northern BC and meeting her my first day only to learn that our lives have crossed many times in the past. We don't believe in growing older without a lot of laughter. She loved this book, and passed it on to our friend, and one of which we share our so-called "support group", and she is enjoying it, too. We all have problems of one kind or another, but when we all get together it's a wonder Tim Hortons doesn't throw us out for disturbing the peace, we are laughing that loud. So, Dick Van Dyke, one of my favourite actors and entertainers, you have done what you set out to do. Made a believer of me and my friends.

All that personal stuff aside, (I only included it because it shows just how much we enjoyed the book and follow the theme), this is a remarkable book on living without aging. The rest of the title is "And Other Tips and Truths About Living Well Longer" and certainly fills the bill. Now in his nineties, Dick Van Dyke is enjoying life as much and maybe more. He is still active, sings and dances and refuses to feel "old". I very highly recommend this book to everyone. Not just us "old folks" who are really 'way ahead of our predecessors for many reasons. Laughter, friendship, walking, exercising mind and body (crossword puzzles are great for keeping the mind active), all this and more will keep us young. So many memories in this book from the past and forming today as well. His advice to keep making new memories, don't just sit around, move or go out as much as you are physically able and ignore what you are not physically able, take up new interests you are capable of, music, jokes, laughter, friendship, all will keep you young. This isn't to say that Dick hasn't had his share of sadness having lost two life partners in his lifetime. His memories of these two women are fresh and young, and fortunately he has found his partner, his wife, who though younger is very much in tune with him. He has children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren he is proud of and enjoys. This book also brought back the work he accomplished that I grew up with, the sitcoms, the movies, who could forget "Mary Poppins" nor can I forget "Bye Bye Birdie" one that you don't really hear that much about any more, but I remember it. I didn't realize that he was in the air force during WWII, at the young age of 18. So many famous entertainers did go to war, and some lost their lives. This is a heart-warming book, nostalgic but not lessening in its message. Be young, age is just a number. I enjoyed every bit of this book as well as his conversations with other favourite performers. I still love the Dick Van Dyke show, as well as the other later ones. A very likable man who I hope will be with us a long time yet. ( )

I listened to this book read by Dick Van Dyke. At times his voice sounded thick and he didn't pronounce the words well as if he had been through some serious medical issue. Of course, he is 89. He is currently married to a woman 46 years younger after his last significant other died of cancer after 30 years. Some of it was funny and mostly he just said to keep moving. He sets a good example.

This is like visiting with an elderly man in a retirement home. I enjoy listening to him talk, his enthusiasm is still catching. Some stories about his life, lots of advice about living and aging, a longing for the good old days and ways (he is firmly against living in the past though). It's okay, and even fun at times, but after awhile you start looking at the clock to see if it's too soon to leave.

His energy and joy for living come through in this book, along with a whole lot of positive thinking. ( )

Actor and perennial song-and-dance man, Dick Van Dyke, looks back on his 89 years to reminisce and dispense homespun tips for aging. Written in an easy vernacular, you can almost hear his voice and picture in your mind him leaning into the microphone to chat away. Van Dyke attributes his longevity to physical activity -- Keep Moving! -- and continued engagement in life. This includes a late marriage to a woman decades his junior. His energy, warmth, good humor and memories of Carl Reiner, Mary, Tyler Moore, filming Disney classics and more are a delight. You will find yourself drawn in by his non-nonsense but generous view of life.

The publisher provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. ( )

Dick Van Dyke shares his optimistic outlook as an invigorating tonic to all who need a reminder that life should be lived with enthusiasm, despite what the calendar says.

Dyke at 90 has more life left in him than most. This book is his musings and observations on life. He discusses how he doesn't really know how to dance. How he loves his Pandora app even though he doesn't know what an App is. He takes everything in stride. Some of the best advice he has in the book is enjoy the moment. Overall this was a very enjoyable read. ( )