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Goodnight John-Boy: Behind the Scenes of a Beloved TV Classic
For eight wonderful years "The Waltons," the story of a family living in the foothills of Virginia@s Blue Ridge Mountains during the Depression, entertained America and the world. Yet this television show was more than entertaining. Each episode combined wonderful stories and "teachable moments" in which adults and children alike learned the importance of honesty, hard work, respect, responsibility, self-sacrifice, and kindness. As is true in most families, the Waltons faced many challenges, occasionally stumbled along the way, but they struggled to live their lives within the framework of the values they believed and taught.
"Goodnight, John-Boy" is a memory book of "The Waltons," the number-one television show of its time. Filled with behind-the-scenes anecdotes and profiles of people who appeared on the show, it introduces readers to the Hamner family members who later became characters on "The Waltons," suggests events and locales that inspired many of the episodes, and traces Earl Hamner@s life as a writer from Virginia to New York to Hollywood.
Included is a description of each episode plus reminiscence, comments, and personal feelings from numerous people connected with the series-writers, actors, directors, producers, family, and fans. Heavily illustrated with publicity shots and personal photographs taken by cast, crew, and others, "Goodnight John-Boy" will be a welcomed book by millions of loyal fans.
When "The Waltons" first aired in 1972, it was at the bottom of the Nielson ratings-by December it led the list. That dramatic leap came about because fans told their friends about it and wrote the CBS network to praise the show and to plead that the show not becanceled. Thirty years later, "Goodnight, John-Boy" is sure to touch the hearts of the show@s fans again.
"Goodnight, John-Boy" is a memory book of "The Waltons," the number-one television show of its time. Filled with behind-the-scenes anecdotes and profiles of people who appeared on the show, it introduces readers to the Hamner family members who later became characters on "The Waltons," suggests events and locales that inspired many of the episodes, and traces Earl Hamner@s life as a writer from Virginia to New York to Hollywood.
Included is a description of each episode plus reminiscence, comments, and personal feelings from numerous people connected with the series-writers, actors, directors, producers, family, and fans. Heavily illustrated with publicity shots and personal photographs taken by cast, crew, and others, "Goodnight John-Boy" will be a welcomed book by millions of loyal fans.
When "The Waltons" first aired in 1972, it was at the bottom of the Nielson ratings-by December it led the list. That dramatic leap came about because fans told their friends about it and wrote the CBS network to praise the show and to plead that the show not becanceled. Thirty years later, "Goodnight, John-Boy" is sure to touch the hearts of the show@s fans again.
205 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2002
6 people are currently reading
325 people want to read
About the author
Earl Hamner Jr.
23 books89 followersEarl Henry Hamner Jr. (born July 10, 1923 in Schuyler, Virginia), was an American television writer and producer (sometimes credited as Earl Hamner), best known for his work in the 1970s and 1980s on the long-running CBS series The Waltons and Falcon Crest. As a novelist, he was best known for Spencer’s Mountain, which was inspired by his own childhood and formed the basis for both the film of the same name and the television series The Waltons, for which he provided voiceover narration.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
June 19, 2021
Over the years I seen a couple of episodes of the Waltons. This book is really for the fans out there. Great history, pictures and stories how it came to life. Great addition.
May 8, 2023
A trip down memory lane with The Waltons - a show we watched faithfully, every Thursday night when I was growing up. Earl Hamner Jr. gives a brief summary of his career, and talks about his original novel and the movie 'Spencer's Mountain' (starring Henry Fonda and Maureen O'Hara). It wasn't a very good movie, but it was the first Hollywood take on the famous family. Then came the Christmas special, 'The Homecoming' - one of our favourites, we watch it every year -and then the groundbreaking series "The Waltons."
Most of the book consists of episode summaries, followed by memories of cast and fans. I remember the episode where Grandpa sees a shooting star just as he gets a pain in his chest, and takes to his bed because he thinks he is going to die. My mom was afraid that he was going to be written out of the series and she took us out of Brownies early that night, so that we could see the whole episode. (Grandpa got better).
The early years were the best years, in my opinion. I think the series declined in quality as the kids aged, and various cast members left the show. I wasn't crazy about any of the people who eventually played the spouses of the Walton clan - Tom Bower as Dr Curt Willard who married Mary Ellen is the exception. Richard Gilliland, her second husband 'Jonesy' was the recipient of every hokey writing cliche possible. I think the show should have stopped when Grandpa died - his folksy wisdom and nature loving conversation really wrapped the plots into a cohesive whole, and spoke to the comfort and peace that was at the appeal of the show.
I would say this book is strictly for the fans, but since there were 50 million of them, it doesn't narrow the field much. 'The Waltons' stands as the 1970s rejection of the counter culture movement: it was the TV home of everyone who wanted a loving family and friends to be the center of their lives, which is pretty much everyone when you really think about it.
Most of the book consists of episode summaries, followed by memories of cast and fans. I remember the episode where Grandpa sees a shooting star just as he gets a pain in his chest, and takes to his bed because he thinks he is going to die. My mom was afraid that he was going to be written out of the series and she took us out of Brownies early that night, so that we could see the whole episode. (Grandpa got better).
The early years were the best years, in my opinion. I think the series declined in quality as the kids aged, and various cast members left the show. I wasn't crazy about any of the people who eventually played the spouses of the Walton clan - Tom Bower as Dr Curt Willard who married Mary Ellen is the exception. Richard Gilliland, her second husband 'Jonesy' was the recipient of every hokey writing cliche possible. I think the show should have stopped when Grandpa died - his folksy wisdom and nature loving conversation really wrapped the plots into a cohesive whole, and spoke to the comfort and peace that was at the appeal of the show.
I would say this book is strictly for the fans, but since there were 50 million of them, it doesn't narrow the field much. 'The Waltons' stands as the 1970s rejection of the counter culture movement: it was the TV home of everyone who wanted a loving family and friends to be the center of their lives, which is pretty much everyone when you really think about it.
July 18, 2016
4.6 stars
I'm not ashamed to admit that I watch the Waltons almost every day. Grandma and Grandpa and John Boy just warm my heart.
This book is about the life of Earl Hamner, the creator of the Waltons. The Walton family is based on his own parents, grandparents, and siblings. It also describes how the TV show came to be.
I loved it.
December 6, 2017
Ok, I'll admit it. I loved The Waltons. I've seen every episode at least twice, and there's not many TV shows I'll say that about. (M*A*S*H, Star Trek TNG, Carol Burnett....that's probably it.)
About six or seven years ago, I got the series from Netflix and watched every episode again, and it was even more enjoyable than I remembered. I found this book in the library about half way through my Waltons marathon, and it added to the re-watch.
About six or seven years ago, I got the series from Netflix and watched every episode again, and it was even more enjoyable than I remembered. I found this book in the library about half way through my Waltons marathon, and it added to the re-watch.
November 22, 2021
This book brings back memories of The Waltons which I faithfully watched every week when the series ran. Heartwarming stories which often had a theme running through the story. And, life lessons learned. One of my all time favorite shows and now to have a copy in book form to bring back the memories. What more can I ask for? Television series just are not created like this any longer.
January 5, 2025
I loved the little tidbits included in episode description. As a life-long Waltons fan, I was reliving each episode.
January 18, 2015
Nice companion book for the series if you are a fan. However, it left me wanting more..in a bad way. The tidbits during the episode guide section, most didn't make sense where they were placed. A lot of them were just summaries of what I had just read in the episode description. I am 95% one of the episode descriptions was wrong (will confirm when that episode reruns). There is ZERO mention of the second actor who played John-Boy. The only place you see his name is in the cast list at the back of the book. Nothing about his audition process, no photo, and no thoughts from him. I gathered from the book that they adored Richard Thomas, as they should, but if it is meant to be a reflection of the show, it should have mentioned the second actor. I guess since the creator of the show co-wrote this book, I expected more. There was very little behind the scenes tidbits/photos which is something I enjoy in companion books. Overall, I am pretty disappointed but it is nice to have on hand for when I watch the show & am not able to access the internet to look up an episode I am thinking of.
April 17, 2021
Just finished reading the complete novel of “GOODNIGHT JOHN-BOY” by EARL HAMNER & RALPH GIFFIN. It is #26 in my AROUND THE YEAR IN 52 BOOKS BOOKCLUB (a book whose cover shows more than 2 people). For eight wonderful years The Waltons, the story of a family living in the foothills of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains during the Depression, entertained America and the world. Yet this television show was more than entertaining. Each episode combined wonderful stories and "teachable moments" in which adults and children alike learned the importance of honesty, hard work, respect, responsibility, self-sacrifice, and kindness. As is true in most families, the Waltons faced many challenges, occasionally stumbled along the way, but they struggled to live their lives within the framework of the values they believed and taught. Goodnight, John-Boy is a memory book of The Waltons, the number-one television show of its time. Filled with behind-the-scenes anecdotes and profiles of people who appeared on the show, it introduces readers to the Hamner family members who later became characters on The Waltons, suggests events and locales that inspired many of the episodes, and traces Earl Hamner's life as a writer from Virginia to New York to Hollywood. Included is a description of each episode plus reminiscence, comments, and personal feelings from numerous people connected with the series-writers, actors, directors, producers, family, and fans. Heavily illustrated with publicity shots and personal photographs taken by cast, crew, and others, Goodnight John-Boy will be a welcomed book by millions of loyal fans. When The Waltons first aired in 1972, it was at the bottom of the Nielson ratings-by December it led the list. That dramatic leap came about because fans told their friends about it and wrote the CBS network to praise the show and to plead that the show not be canceled. Thirty years later, Goodnight, John-Boy is sure to touch the hearts of the show's fans again. I have always loved this wonderful show, especially when the kids are little and Grandma and Grandpa are still around.
April 6, 2025
During my high school years, I spent almost every Thursday night with a TV family I came to care deeply about. Never mind that they lived in Virginia and that the events that were portrayed took place during the 1930s and 1940s; they felt as real to me as the parents, brother and sister with whom I actually lived. On Friday mornings, my classmate, Lisa, and I would have long discussions about the previous night’s episode which added to my enjoyment. During my college years, I would close the door to my dorm room and watch the show with the volume turned as low as possible so that no one would catch me watching it; (it wasn’t the cool thing to do, and I didn’t need anything to make me appear less “cool” than I already was?!
I would catch reruns from time to time, and I always enjoyed them.
Then, during the pandemic, I watched the entire series all the way through. It gave me a sense of hope during those challenging times. I was struck by how terrific the series really was. People make fun of the values that were represented in the show, but they don’t seem to acknowledge that the plots were far from cookie-cutter, and the characters were complex, interesting people who faced many setbacks and challenges.
It isn’t surprising, then, that I loved this look at how the series was created. The preface, written by Richard Thomas, is very moving without being over-the-top. The book begins with background information about the author’s life and his other work. There is a comprehensive episode guide that takes up most of the book; (I was surprised how many of these episodes I remembered. At the end, there is an interesting section about fan clubs and a museum that is dedicated to the show.
I would catch reruns from time to time, and I always enjoyed them.
Then, during the pandemic, I watched the entire series all the way through. It gave me a sense of hope during those challenging times. I was struck by how terrific the series really was. People make fun of the values that were represented in the show, but they don’t seem to acknowledge that the plots were far from cookie-cutter, and the characters were complex, interesting people who faced many setbacks and challenges.
It isn’t surprising, then, that I loved this look at how the series was created. The preface, written by Richard Thomas, is very moving without being over-the-top. The book begins with background information about the author’s life and his other work. There is a comprehensive episode guide that takes up most of the book; (I was surprised how many of these episodes I remembered. At the end, there is an interesting section about fan clubs and a museum that is dedicated to the show.
April 29, 2025
Like many viewers in the 1970s, I enjoyed The Waltons. So, I’m glad I picked this book up after reading a review.
Earl Hamner starts by talking about his life growing up and how he was inspired to write Spencer’s Mountain and The Homecoming. Being a writer, I found this fascinating. He also discusses the filming of Spencer’s Mountain and The Homecoming. Living in Sheridan, Wyoming, I was surprised to learn that both these movies were filmed in Jackson Hole, a city at the other end of the state, which I visited a few times. I didn’t realize Earl Hamner also created film adaptations of Heidi and Charlotte’s Web.
I must admit I didn’t watch The Waltons as avidly as I did other television shows, and I don’t know why. Though I couldn’t remember many of the episodes I watched, I enjoyed reading the synopsis and other material related to each one. To me, it was almost like reading a historical novel, watching each family member grow and evolve over the years.
I already read The Homecoming and reviewed it here. Spencer’s Mountain is on my TBR list. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of The Waltons or have just discovered them, perhaps through this review, I highly recommend Goodnight John-Boy. Thank you for reading.
Earl Hamner starts by talking about his life growing up and how he was inspired to write Spencer’s Mountain and The Homecoming. Being a writer, I found this fascinating. He also discusses the filming of Spencer’s Mountain and The Homecoming. Living in Sheridan, Wyoming, I was surprised to learn that both these movies were filmed in Jackson Hole, a city at the other end of the state, which I visited a few times. I didn’t realize Earl Hamner also created film adaptations of Heidi and Charlotte’s Web.
I must admit I didn’t watch The Waltons as avidly as I did other television shows, and I don’t know why. Though I couldn’t remember many of the episodes I watched, I enjoyed reading the synopsis and other material related to each one. To me, it was almost like reading a historical novel, watching each family member grow and evolve over the years.
I already read The Homecoming and reviewed it here. Spencer’s Mountain is on my TBR list. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of The Waltons or have just discovered them, perhaps through this review, I highly recommend Goodnight John-Boy. Thank you for reading.
May 1, 2024
A beautiful trip down memory lane! This book is a heartfelt and nostalgic recollection at a TV series that appealed to our better selves.
I grew up in a family of 7 just like the Waltons, except there were 5 girls and two boys. So many of the episodes reminded me of growing up in a large, rambunctious family with grandparents, uncles and aunts close by.
I enjoyed learning more about the family that inspired the series as well as the comments of the writers, producers, directors, actors and fans. Reading the book underscored the need for more wholesome entertainment. I think a lot of people would welcome and support that type of programming.
If you were a fan or are currently watching the reruns, you will enjoy reading this book.
I grew up in a family of 7 just like the Waltons, except there were 5 girls and two boys. So many of the episodes reminded me of growing up in a large, rambunctious family with grandparents, uncles and aunts close by.
I enjoyed learning more about the family that inspired the series as well as the comments of the writers, producers, directors, actors and fans. Reading the book underscored the need for more wholesome entertainment. I think a lot of people would welcome and support that type of programming.
If you were a fan or are currently watching the reruns, you will enjoy reading this book.
December 31, 2017
I loved this book, especially as Michael Learned who played the Mother Olivia Walton and Mary McDonough who played a daughter Erin Walton, both signed the book for me when I met them in April last year. The book is a great guide to every episode, features the names of every actor and character, as well as information about the museum in Schuyler Virginia which I definitely plan to visit, as well as useful websites. You can tell the book is written by Earl Hamner, due to the warmth of his words, like listening to his narration on each episode of The Waltons. This book was given to me as a gift when I met Michael and Mary, which I will always treasure. A must-read for every Waltons fan!
February 28, 2025
A Must-Have for Any Waltons Fan!
As a lifelong fan of The Waltons, Goodnight John-Boy by Earl Hamner Jr. and Ralph Griffin had me smiling from ear to ear. Part memoir, part episode guide, this book is a heartfelt tribute to one of television’s most beloved families. The behind-the-scenes stories, personal reflections, and complete synopses of every episode and TV movie make it an absolute treasure.
If you love The Waltons, don’t hesitate—this book is a must-read. It’s perfect for dipping in and out of, revisiting favorite moments, and reliving the warmth, wisdom, and nostalgia of the show. Highly recommended!
As a lifelong fan of The Waltons, Goodnight John-Boy by Earl Hamner Jr. and Ralph Griffin had me smiling from ear to ear. Part memoir, part episode guide, this book is a heartfelt tribute to one of television’s most beloved families. The behind-the-scenes stories, personal reflections, and complete synopses of every episode and TV movie make it an absolute treasure.
If you love The Waltons, don’t hesitate—this book is a must-read. It’s perfect for dipping in and out of, revisiting favorite moments, and reliving the warmth, wisdom, and nostalgia of the show. Highly recommended!
September 8, 2021
From the creator of the 70's show, The Walton's. Earl Hamner Jr. gives readers an inside look to the beloved television series that has maintained fans through the many decades since its original airing on primetime television. Followers, like myself, will find many questions answered and enjoy the author's own point of view on his greatest achievement. Even beyond his death, Earl Hamner Jr. continues to shine a light on the things that matter most in life: a family's love, togetherness, and simple caring for one's neighbors and community. A must-read for every Walton's fan!
September 4, 2019
A nice "visit" with a family that was a part of my childhood TV "roster". I have been thinking of re-watching the Waltons. This book really spurred on my desire. It was also nice to find out bits and pieces of the shows background.
February 8, 2020
Intresting reading about how the show came together, with anecdotes from the cast and writers. The middle of the book I kind of skimmed as it was just the synopsis of each of the episodes and specials. If you were a fan of the Waltons, you will find this interesting.
August 30, 2024
I originally thought this was an outstanding quick read regarding The Waltons TV show and how everyone involved were all so nice and caring towards one another. Essentially every major actor and actress share memories and anecdotes from their times together.
But I realized later that there was absolutely no acknowledgement of Robert Wightman taking over the role of John Boy in seasons eight and nine after Richard Thomas departed the show. While most certainly think of Richard Thomas as John Boy, for this book to fail to mention Robert Wightman and have no commentary from him is rather disappointing.
But I realized later that there was absolutely no acknowledgement of Robert Wightman taking over the role of John Boy in seasons eight and nine after Richard Thomas departed the show. While most certainly think of Richard Thomas as John Boy, for this book to fail to mention Robert Wightman and have no commentary from him is rather disappointing.
May 22, 2017
If you loved the TV series the Walton's, grab this reminiscence of the show and a look back at the special moments of a family living through hard times in a different era
May 2, 2019
I will always be a fan of the Waltons. I watch The Homecoming, the show’s pilot with Patricia Neal, every Christmas. This was a fun read.
December 14, 2020
I'm a fan.
April 23, 2022
Not what I expected.
November 21, 2022
Enjoyable book all around with background chapters on the Hamner family, short synopses of each show with interesting commentary from writers, directors, actors, Earl Hamner and fans.
April 28, 2024
I love The Waltons and I love this book it has a little bit of everything about it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 14, 2024
This is okay. It was just a synopsis of each episode.
December 27, 2024
Very good, informative book about how The Waltons came to be and info about the episodes and character.
January 14, 2025
Succinct recap of all the Waltons episodes, sprinkled with remembrances by various folks associated with the show including actors, writers, directors, and fans
February 18, 2017
As a long time fan of the Walton's, I found this book a must read. Starts with the history of the real family the show was based on and then gives a episode snapshot of each show. It was interesting that many thought the show would never make it. In the disappointing reality tv era we are in now, it is refreshing to watch a show that not only tells a story, but teaches a lesson as well. Reading about the actors bringing to life these stories was quite interesting. If you love the Walton's, read this book.
April 29, 2017
For fans of The Waltons, this is a must-read. It was the story of Earl Hamner's real family, a little blurb about each actor, synpses of each episode and a description of The Walton's museum in Virginia. It's a reference book to keep handy while watching the show.
February 1, 2011
I loved it! The first half was interesting to me, as a writer; and the second half enabled me to relive the TV series. When a particular episode sparked my interest, all I had to do was go to youtube and watch it again. How fortunate we are to have such resources!
November 16, 2011
I'm a love the Waltons. I have the complete series so when I saw this book I had to have it. It gave a lot of behind the scene stories. It was nice to learn where the stories came from. If you like the Waltons it would be a nice book for your collections.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews