Reflections in a Silver Spoon: A Memoir

by Paul Mellon, Paul Mellon

Paul Mellon recounts his privileged upbringing, the scandalous divorce of his parents, and his life of philanthropy, horse racing and breeding, and environmental activism. 35,000 first printing. $50,000 ad/promo.

Genres: Memoir, Biography, Biography Memoir, Nonfiction

444 pages, Hardcover

First published April 1, 1992

Reviews

[Barbara Q · Rating 3 out of 5]

Oh, to have billions of dollars.

This memoir was stuffy at times but also was a glimpse into the world of immense wealth and philanthropy. Not a page-turner but Paul Mellon seemed to be a gentle, rather modest gentleman. But also far removed from one iota of discomfort resulting from not having enough money. One takeaway was that he expected his and his family’s wealth and influence would be (and was) the entree into nearly everything he wanted. He definitely was an East Coast Elite.

I have no idea how history regards the Mellons but this book at least introduced me to them.

[Edward Mitchell · Rating 2 out of 5]

The Mellons make for wonderful reading, but Paul Mellon spends a bit more time than I needed on his extensive horse racing experience, art collecting, and endless philanthropic projects. He is an impressive guy, and I love that he was an avid steeplechase jockey (how many billionaire jockeys are there?) and foxhunter. And he clearly was very thoughtful, dedicated, and very well learned in both horses and art. I would love to have had an opportunity to meet him.

[Russ Weimer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was expecting more information on the Mellon family and bank. Not a financial memoir. Paul led an interesting life fueled by unlimited resources. A great philanthropist, his family should be commended for their contributions to the National Gallery on the mall in Washington DC.

[Janet · Rating 1 out of 5]

Paul Mellon comes across as one of the most boring, shallow people to ever write a memoir.

[Maggie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had to read this for work (I am in charge of our book club here at the museum), and I picked this because of the connection between Paul Mellon and our museum. I have to admit, at first I thought I'd made a huge mistake, because it is a little dry in parts.....but overall, there were some really charming anecdotes. I grew to have a soft spot for Mr. Mellon. He really was a very likeable guy! I would recommend this only for someone who is very, very interested in learning about the Mellon family. Otherwise, I would recommend you read a biography of his father, Andrew -- a much more interesting person in American history, in my opinion.

[Lori Widmer Bean · Rating 1 out of 5]

My God, I couldn't get through this. I tried. It starts out nicely enough, with Mr. Mellon talking a bit about his heritage. But then it goes wrong. I came to a point in the book where I couldn't help thinking, "Why am I bothering?" Sadly, that occurred in Chapter One.

It may be a fine read. I can't say. I don't have the wherewithal to continue. Good luck.