"Writing keeps me alive. It gives me a purpose beyond the past."
— Kirk Douglas
At the age of 72, Kirk Douglas began his writing career with the publishing of The Ragman’s Son, the first of four works focusing on his extraordinary life. His final book, Kirk and Anne: Letters of Love, Laughter, and a Lifetime in Hollywood, a tender reflection on an incredible love story, was published when Kirk was nearly 101. In his own words:“Writing is hard work. But the process of putting thoughts on paper forces me to think more clearly and deeply about my life.”
The Ragman’s Son (1988):
The autobiography is an account of Douglas’ life that began in poverty but led to international film stardom.
Dance With the Devil (1990):
Hollywood director Danny Dennison finds his life unraveling when he meets a captivating call girl who threatens to shatter long-guarded secrets.
The Gift (1992):
An orphaned heiress faces a chain of melodramatic events and falls for a Portuguese bullfighter.
Last Tango in Brooklyn (1994):
An aging personal trainer and medical librarian half his age strike up a love affair that family and friends disapprove of.
The Broken Mirror (1997):
This children’s book is a fictional account of a Jewish boy who faces the horrors of the Holocaust.
Young Heroes of the Bible (1999):
In another children’s book, Douglas retells five Old Testament stories.
Climbing the Mountain: My Search for Meaning (2001):
This memoir picks up where Douglas’ 1988 autobiography left off, focusing on his reconnection to his Jewish faith and identity.
My Stroke of Luck (2003):
Douglas recounts his recovery from a debilitating stroke in 1995.
Let’s Face It: 90 Years of Living, Loving & Learning (2007):
In another memoir, Douglas explores the mixed blessings of growing older and looking back at his life.
I Am Spartacus!: Making a Film, Breaking the Blacklist (2012):
On the 50th anniversary of the film that gave Douglas perhaps his most iconic role, Douglas recounts how “Spartacus” was made.
Life Could Be Verse: Reflections on Love, Loss, and What Really Matters (2014):
Douglas shares an intimate look into his life through a collection of poetry, prose and photographs.
Kirk and Anne: Letters of Love, Laughter, and a Lifetime in Hollywood (2017):
Written with his wife, Anne, Douglas’ last published work includes letters and photos that provide an intimate glimpse into their love story.