Home and Alone

by Daniel Stern

Daniel Stern's connection with audiences is cemented in movies like Home Alone and City Slickers, and in his debut memoir, Home and Alone, he is the Everyman narrator on a ride into the human side of Hollywood. Experience what it's like driving Robert Redford in his Porsche at 100 mph, or stripping down for a nude scene in front of a group of strangers.

Share the out-of-body moments of flying alone with Mel Gibson on his jet to Las Vegas and smashing a fake mustache onto Gary Busey's face while cursing him out on the pitcher's mound of Wrigley Field. Join him in his triumphant stories like conquering his dyslexia as the voice of The Wonder Years, and his terrifying ones like being sued for $25 million by CBS and Columbia pictures. His insights into marriage, children, parents, and parenting are not only hilarious, but packed with subtle wisdom. But the real surprises are in Stern's off-screen roles as a bronze sculptor, cattle rancher, avocado farmer, and public servant. The hard work and commitment he has put into his on-screen successes are applied with the same intensity to every aspect of his life.

From creating monumental public art projects and founding a Boys & Girls Club to visiting troops in Iraq and learning to birth a cow, he has lived it all. Home and Alone is for anyone who needs reminding that nothing is impossible if you put your mind to it.

Genres: Nonfiction, Audiobook, Memoir, Biography, Autobiography, Film

Audible Audio

Published July 9, 2024

Reviews

[Zach Koenig · Rating 3 out of 5]

From Home Alone to City Slickers to The Wonder Years, Daniel Stern has had his share of iconic entertainment roles. "Home and Alone" is his memoir--and it is about as unhinged as any of those roles.

The good: Stern certainly has some great stories to tell. From discovering theatre and his early film roles to shenanigans on the sets of his well-known flicks, there are interesting tidbits here to be sure. His USO tour to Iraq and having Iraqis shout "Marv! Marv!" is a particular highlight. His late-career work as a sculpture artist is also fascinating.

The bad: Stern wears his politics on his sleeve and it gets in the way of certain anecdotes. Nothing too horrible, but it's noticeable to be sure. Also, on a few occasions, Stern absolutely calls out fellow actors or directors in profanity-laced rants. I do not think either of these threads belong in a memoir.

I might give "Home and Alone" 3.5 stars if able, but it is most certainly a "round down" rather than "round up" endeavor. While interesting and engaging in fits and spurts, it fails to fully engross the reader in the way that, say, Patrick Stewart's recent memoir does.

[Conner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great dude Daniel Stern is. What an interesting life he’s led. He left home at 17 to pursue an acting career in New York. Through good luck and hard work, he climbed the ladder to appear in movies and television (Home Alone, City Slickers, Rookie of the Year, Wonder Years) to name a few. He’s been an accomplished actor, director, playwright, and sculptor. He founded the Boys and Girls Club of Malibu and 100% of the proceeds from this book were donated to the Boys and Girls Club. He flew to the Middle East on a USO tour to support the troops and received the President’s Call to Service Award, the highest honor a civilian can receive for volunteering.

The book was intriguing, engaging, and quite the life story. I need to revisit many of the movies he’s been in.

[Suzanne Mosley (Suzanne Shares) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️ I love a good memoir! I also LOVE the movie Home Alone, so when I could read the memoir of Home Alone’s MARV, I wholeheartedly jumped in! As I like to do with memoirs, I “read” the audio version! Stern reads the book, and it was delightful! It felt like we were seated and sharing lunch together, swapping stories. Stern gives account of his career as an actor in movies like Home Alone and City Slickers while also sharing profusely about his greatest achievement—his children! Enjoyed this one!

🎶Note: language, drug & alcohol, adultery

[Lee Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was quite an enjoyable read from someone who grew up in the same neighborhoods and went to all the same schools. As Danny was my brother's friend during their Cub and Boy Scout years I can attest from a little sister's perspective that his memories of that time ring true. He was the lead in every school play, I believe, and was considered somewhat of a rebel for dropping out of school to follow his passion. We watched his early movies with a smile and his acting never disappointed. He always played a part that was relatable to the times.

Although he is recounting an almost 50 year career in entertainment, what resonates most about him in this book is his complete love for his wife and family. It's amazing to stay married for so long these days and to do it as an actor is quite admirable. He and his wife Laur are true partners. His interest in his community and activism are also admirable and he has a list of accomplishments outside of his acting career that are quite impressive.

He tells his story with such a great sense of humor, pulls no punches in his criticisms of people he's worked with in the past. The person I got to know through this book is a hilariously funny guy who is loyal to those he loves and expects the same in return. He remembers events and friendships in detail and I heartily recommend his book. My brother died over 20 years ago and it was quite touching to read his tribute to him in Home and Alone.

[Shaun T · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted to love this book. I certainly couldn't put it down, but for all the wrong reasons. What started off as a fascinating trip through "making it" in the business turned into political soapboxing and greed. Talk about being totally turned off. This one was a miss for me, and I'm very sad to say that. Marv Merchants is my most anticipated part of the Holiday season, and always will be. Daniel Stern just happens to be the guy who brought him to life. For that, I'm grateful. That's about the extent of it, however.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had no idea what a hysterically funny guy Daniel Stern is and it comes through in his writing. I mostly knew him as an actor from Breaking Away and Diner. I had no idea that Home Alone was such a big movie either!

Anyway, he seems to be a devoted husband and family man and I enjoyed the stories of his growing up and also the stories of his wife and children. All told with a great sense of humor!

[Felicia · Rating 2 out of 5]

Pretty uninteresting, overall. Lots of repetition, foul language and greediness. I wouldn’t recommend unless you happen to be a die-hard fan (does that exist with Daniel Stern?)

[Tony Farinella · Rating 4 out of 5]

Daniel Stern’s memoir stands out as one of the most refreshing memoirs from a Hollywood actor in recent times. Despite his pride in his career, Stern emphasizes that his movie roles don’t define him. Instead, he’s driven by a desire to help others, be present for his family, and live a life of freedom. Stern’s honesty shines through as he discusses his earnings from movies, his opinions on directors and actors, and his personal highs and lows. His story is inspiring, especially considering his dyslexia and how he overcame it by narrating The Wonder Years. Stern’s writing is humorous and engaging, filled with captivating stories and valuable experiences to share with readers.

However, I wish the book had been longer and delved deeper into certain aspects. While Stern covers most of the significant movies he’s been in, he briefly discusses the scripts and shares anecdotes from each film. Unfortunately, these discussions are rushed, leaving me wanting more detailed insights into specific films and actors.

Near the end of the book, Stern’s political views become more pronounced, which detracted from my enjoyment. Although I agree with his political beliefs, his ramblings took me out of the book. Overall, Stern has written an entertaining and enjoyable memoir, and he’s lived an incredible life. He has much to be proud of, including financial stability, a successful career, a loving family, and peace of mind. It was refreshing to read a book by someone who isn’t solely focused on fame or making friends. Stern isn’t bitter but is also not afraid to name names or discuss who was unpleasant on specific movies.

[Gordon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I expected a comedic outlook based memoir. What I got was so much more. Daniel Stern is a great writer, so he knows how to put a comedic spin on his life events, but there are also some very dramatic and surprising moments in this man's life.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a kind and generous man Daniel Stern is. A true story of an artist and public servant. Now I am going to go watch his movies again. I do hope he writes a sequel.

[Jerry Wayne Hart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do yourself a favor and get the audiobook. Stern’s narration is perfect. His story is much more interesting than I expected.

[Samuel Steffen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This memoir by the actor is exceptional. Stern provides a candid account of his career and the individuals he has collaborated with. He shares insights from his experiences, spanning from "Wonder Years" to "Home Alone."

[Casey Coleman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who knew Marv had such a heart? And a well accomplished career?! This was a beautiful read. I felt like I was listening to a podcast or chatting with an old friend. There was humor pearled throughout the story and lots of interesting and personal backstory all around. I highly enjoyed this gem of a read and I think anyone who values family, community, and honesty will take something away from this. Absolutely loved it.

[Rob Vitagliano · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a huge fan of the first two Home Alone movies, and absolutely loved Daniel Stern in both of them, and I'm also quite fond of the movie City Slickers, and enjoyed his character in that as well. This all lead me to almost buy this book when it came out, but something told me to wait for the audiobook version, and I'm glad I did, because I imagine a lot of the jokes in this wouldn't have been quite as funny without his inflections and overall deadpan but somehow still levitic tone.

There are a LOT of laughs in this book, especially early on, and as I was listening to the first six hours or so of it while I was walking, I probably looked like a lunatic to people, just randomly laughing out loud to seemingly nothing. There aren't as many jokes in the last third or so, as he talks more about his politics and philanthropic work, two subjects readers may not find as interesting as his film roles, but they are all a part of the man, so I personally don't have a problem that he included them.

His story about the reaction from director Chris Columbus that he got while filming the electrocution scene in Home Alone 2 is my favorite moment of this book, at least off the top of my head, but there really were a lot of great laughs and line deliveries throughout, and you really get a sense of how thankful he is at the life he's lived.

He also speaks glowingly about his wife, Laure, throughout the book, and it's nice to read about a successful couple anywhere, nevermind in Hollywood. He's also very proud of his children, who are all apparently accomplished themselves at this point. He also relates a few funny anecdotes about other members of his family, including an incredible coincidence with his brother that he saves for the very end of the book.

His experiences filming Home Alone, its sequel, and City Slickers, were probably my favorite parts of the book, as I hold all three movies in high esteem, and the fact that he relayed mostly positive experiences about filming them only adds to my enjoyment of the films.

Overall, this is a story about a talented and funny man who holds his family dear, made the most of his opportunities, and is thankful for all that he's gotten in life. He does take some shots at certain people, even naming most of them, and it is a bit surprising, but hey, it's his book. Also, I can see some readers not being happy about his politics, but I think people should just put those all aside and hear the man out, as I personally wouldn't want the censored and politically correct version of a memoir, if it hides the true essence of the person. I'd recommend this one to anyone that is a fan of his films, and you'll find out there's a lot more to him if you do.

[Jodi]

I don't rate memoirs on content, since it's a person's life, but this is one of the least eye roll inducing celebrity memoirs I've ever read. I definitely enjoyed it a lot more in the audiobook form in which I consumed it than I would have in just reading a hard copy.

The humble early beginnings were relatable and refreshing, and predictably that experience faded as his celebrity grew throughout the story. He still retained some down-to-earth humanity, but extreme privilege seems to be inevitably alienating from normal human struggles to a certain extent.

I don't really disagree with his political rants, but they didn't really fit with the tone or style of most of the book. It felt like 10-15% of the book had some sort of tie or reference to GWB, and directly blaming W for his shows' failures is really something. Also, if you're going to rant about bad presidents in a book published in 2024, and you're a hard-core Democrat, how do you not call out Tr*mp? I wondered if he's afraid of some kind of retribution (which wouldn't be an unfounded fear), whereas W is long gone from that role. The typical celebrity calling out of certain other celebrities or excessively praising others was there, although it wasn't nearly as much as in other memoirs (Henry Winkler comes to mind).

Overall, it was interesting enough and I learned a lot about his career that I hadn't previously known. I look forward to watching some of his earlier movies and now have fun facts to mention next time my family watches "Home Alone."

[Janette · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book should be re-titled "Home, Alone, and in Love with the F-Bomb," since this thing is full of profanity. I don't like reading that garbage, so having it pop up consistently definitely colored my opinion of both the book and it's author. For that reason alone, I do not recommend. I was also truly disgusted to learn how he ended up with his wife. I give them kudos for staying together all of these years, but the way that came about is just...yuck.

So, as often happens when I read some celebrity's bio/autobio, I was left with a very negative opinion of Mr. Stern. That low opinion dropped even further when I reached the latter part of the book and found it full of political rants and gag-inducing, pro-Obama fawning. It was so thick ("I cried like a baby [over Obama]...") that I couldn't tolerate anymore and finally started skipping paragraphs.

On the pro side, I've seen some of Mr. Stern's art and he's a very talented artist. I respect the fact that he's worked hard to get where he is and that he's wise with his finances. His acting roles have also brought people much happiness. But he absolutely comes across as yet another entitled, self-important celebrity spewing his leftist politics like a toxic rain. When I read his statement that acting is a "noble and important profession," I knew he was fully engulfed in the Hollywood fantasy bubble. When will these people realize that playing pretend does not make them "better" or entitled to attack those who hold a different political opinion? What a massive waste of my time.

[Rich Farrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I saved this one to read during the Christmas season. (Last year I was just too busy for a memoir, so I sat on it.) It’s oddly a unique memoir, in a mostly good way. Getting the (sort of) disappointing part out of the way, there was only one chapter, which was about 20 minutes on the otherwise fantastic audiobook, about Home Alone. There was another 20 minutes if you add the sequel. The original is probably my favorite movie, and I was hoping for much more about the filming and behind the scenes stories and stuff like that. Still, Stern has led an interesting life, so I found myself interested throughout.

Even better, there’s a cliche with memoirs of movie stars and rock stars that a big chunk of them that I’ve read tend to focus on addiction or some other scandal. Those stories tend to feel like writing them is part of their AA program or something where they have to acknowledge and apologize. Stern seems like a pretty wholesome guy. He gets and stays married with kids early in life. He fundraises for the Boys and Girls Club and tours with the USO. At the same time, he isn’t bragging about these things in the book: they genuinely seem to be just things that he did that were important to him. His film life was work and an interesting part of his life, but it didn’t seem toxic to him or those around him. It was refreshing to read a memoir from a celebrity without there being some awkward apology coursing through.

[Dan McDowell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stern provides readers an intimate glimpse at his humble beginnings as a hippie Jewish democrat from Pennsylvania all the while exploring the delicate balance that “breaking away” into show business has required him. His working class ethic and unconventional communication style makes this memoir stand out amongst a slew of celebrity memoirs and I hope to get a copy of the audiobook with his narration. Home and Alone takes us to the Big Apple, Hollywood, Malibu, and the middle east with anecdotal and prescriptive wisdom sprinkled all throughout. What gives this story teeth however are Stern’s transparent reflections on the personal and career ramifications associated with the oft nomadic lifestyle that acting requires and its impact on the family. Stern’s passion for creativity in various fashions, fundraising, and “loving his neighbor” is infectious and a selling point for this book. Furthermore, his loyalty to his wife, Laure, and his children are admirable and evident as he shares war stories from the frontlines of Baghdad during the war on terror as well as the dogeatdog Hollywood we’re all too accustomed to hearing about.
All in all an enjoyable read. From one uncle Dan to another! Nicely done!

[Lerrise · Rating 3 out of 5]

Because my family and I watch the Home Alone movies every year during the Christmas season, and I enjoy reading celebrity memoirs, I was very interested in listening to "Home and Alone". At times, the very creative Daniel Stern is laugh-out-loud funny as he narrates his own story. His description of his mother's reaction to his being cast in a movie titled "Bambino" is hilarious! He is also very generous in describing the filming of the scenes and stunts in the Home Alone series and other movies. Unfortunately, Stern's constant and liberal use of the F-word in its various grammatical forms -- noun, verb, adjective, etc. -- detracts from his otherwise very interesting stories. Most unfortunately, Stern uses his memoir to denegrate one political party while fawning over the other; Stern's own son is a California Democratic Senator, which is a clue as to which political leaders get lambasted and which are praised in the memoir. All in all, I found the memoir interesting, respect that everyone has a right to their own use of language and opinions, and appreciate the vulnerability and courage of anyone who writes and shares their story with the public. Depending on your own views on foul language and politics, you'll either find the content often cringy or MARVelous.

[Jonathan Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t help but dive into this autobiography because I had the privilege of working with Mr. Stern once. Everything I was shown by ‘Danny’ then is the same as I think of him now, which goes to say Daniel Stern is as real and genuine of a person as you can find in Hollywood. He has deep feelings and emotions for the things he cares about, which has always been, first and foremost, his family. The more you read in this life journey, high school drop-out makes good by naive self-belief and determination, the more you realize that luck isn’t something you just get. If you believe in yourself enough to focus on what you really want to do and give it your all, and ignore the internal voices of self criticism and judgment, you’ll make your own luck. You’ll find your way. And you’ll learn that in 👍the end, if you’re fortunate, you’ll find a way to make love the centerpiece of everything.

An enjoyable read from start to finish, take a few moments yourself to be home and alone and read this heartwarming and entertaining unfiltered biography from an often overlooked Hollywood icon.

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have yet to read a better memoir. Daniel Stern came off very likeable and not at all conceded. He worked, got lucky with a few big movies, and continued to have steady work till he semi retired as an artist with a farm. It sounds like he was a nice guy that had good things happen to him, things that he does not take for granted. He's not embarrassed by his work and he doesn't see himself as gods gift to acting. It's a shame he didn't get another film to direct, he comes off as really enjoying the process and he's clearly a talented writer.

My low point of the book was when he went to Afghanistan, Soldier grab ass will always bother me. It's like you get free reign to be a shit human simply because you have to kill people for a living, and his time even just as an ambassador over there didn't sit well with me.

Still, this is a full on recommend. Daniel remains personable throughout and it was fun to experience his journey.

[Joe B · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good book about the life and times of Daniel Stern “Marv” as we all know him. He provides us a fully transparent biography of his life concerning growing up as a young Jewish boy, to becoming an actor, meeting his wife, becoming famous, being a father, making movies, making money, doing voiceover, writing plays, taking part in civic clubs and foundations, doing USI trips, understanding Hollywood and all its corruption , being a playwright, sculptor, farmer, rancher, and list goes on and on. All while staying grounded in “playing” with everyone, everything and everybody. A story everyone to read and see how fame doesn’t go to your head. Being honest and alone definitely paid off.

[Mark Lieberman · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I saw this book as an upcoming release, I was excited to learn more about him. All I knew him from was Home Alone and City Slickers. I actually read a free sample from Amazon on my Kindle, and then found the book at my local library.

So, I had no clue he was the narrator in The Wonder Years. I had no clue him and his wife were friends with Mel Gibson and his former wife Robyn. I had no clue he was in a movie Robert Redford directed.

I really enjoyed reading about his background, his movies, his family (wife and kids), and his charity work.

[Sarah Whitney · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book #93 of 2024. This audiobook took way too long to finish. With Phoenix driving me everywhere I don’t get as much chance to listen to audiobooks. I didn’t enjoy this as much as I thought I would. He used the F bomb a lot. He talks politics which I hate. He mentioned his time doing USO tour in Dec 2003 in Iraq right before I got there! I enjoyed that part.
He is a family man which I love. But don’t love how his relationship with his wife started. 3⭐️

[Scott Delgado · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honestly, I didn't expect to like this as much as I did. I like Daniel Stern, but I wasn't expecting much from him. I really appreciated his openness about everything. He tells you his pay on each project, but it's not to brag. It's part of the bigger picture--how he was saving up so he could invest and be able to not work anymore. After reading this, I have a great deal of respect for Stern and am glad I know so much more about this good-hearted guy.

[Randy Horshok · Rating 5 out of 5]

A surprisingly good and funny autobiography!

"Home and Alone" checks all the boxes for a celebrity story. It makes you laugh. Gives you insight to working in movies, plays, and television. Offers some "dirt" on other Hollywood figures. And, finally, weaves together a very good story. Fortunately, Stern didn't lose his zest for life (as Cyril suggested in "Breaking Away")...... and he never lost sight of it.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been a fan of some of Daniel Stern's movies, and his part of the Wonder years. Glad to read his memoir. He writes of growing up in Maryland. finding an interest in acting. He writes of his wife Laure and their happy marriage. the birth of his three kids. He writes of his movies the good and bad experiences he has had. a good read. I liked reading and learning more about Daniel Stern.

[Jess Conn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will listen to the audio version of this book narrated by the author himself and it was absolutely fabulous. Growing up a kid in the 90s I was absolutely obsessed with The Wonder Years and home alone movies. To hear more about his life was truly amazing. I would love to read the another book written by him!

[Zach Schiff · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good book, some good stories, and he's very candid about his feelings and his salaries, and if a movie stunk, he says it. Pretty great when he blames the Bush Administration for two of his sitcoms getting canceled, and not blaming the sitcoms themselves for being awful shtick (they're on Youtube, if you want to watch).

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honest, charming, funny, heart-warming … Daniel Stern wrote a great memoir! I really enjoyed it! He’s had such an interesting life and the love he has for his family & community is touching. I had no idea he loved art and making artwork, particularly sculptures, that was fascinating to learn. And his “Hand Shake Tour” with the USO during the Iraq war was very interesting. Highly recommend!!