2020 First Place Chanticleer International Book Awards in the Hearten Uplifting & Inspiring Non-Fiction category. Bill Pullen is a brilliant storyteller. Whether it’s his childhood encounter with a V1 flying bomb, a renegade monkey in Suriname, the time he had to fire George Carlin, or one of his many other recollections, you will feel as though you were right there when the action happened. His story begins with heartwarming memories of his early years on the outskirts of London during World War II. Following his first job as a bartender at The Savoy Hotel in London, he accepted a one-year assignment at the Hotel Plaza Athénée in Paris. While there a chance meeting with an American financier led to a once-in-a-lifetime job offer and his eventual emigration to the United States. From historic country inns to five-star hotels on three continents, he shares anecdotes of his experiences with friends, family, and a myriad of celebrities whom he met along the way. All done with great humor and insight. Life goes on after retirement. In the final two chapters, Bill relates the importance of community involvement and the highly emotional connection he made while in Sri Lanka. That experience culminated in the creation of a foundation supporting some of that island’s poorest children and what became his lifetime passion and mission. "I have read your book. Brilliant!" - John C., Long Island, New York"I could not put it down until I finished it...I did so enjoy it." - Lee P., Thomasville, Georgia"Read cover to cover - it flowed. Well worth reading. A page turner." - Walter S., St. Petersburg, FL"I promise, I'm not exaggerating when I say that I can't put it down...It's absolutely wonderful! ...You have the reader feeling as though they're right there with you." - Kathy V. The Villages,FL"Wow! Who knew what an interesting and exciting life you've had...having started to read it, I couldn't put it down until I had finished it." - Mike D., Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex, U.K. Born in England, Bill Pullen's 52-year career in the hospitality industry encompassed experiences in interesting venues on three continents. He now resides in Central Florida in The Villages, the largest golfing community in the world.