Bob Hope once said he'd like to live his life all over again because "it's been a hell of a ride." As the world mourns the death of this beloved comedian, here are a few books to bring comfort and mirth, as well as insight into this legend. Do you know a child or young person that you'd like to see read more? How about recommending these books to them, or better yet, buy them for them! What a great way to introduce a young person to reading...by beholding one of the 20th Century's greatest pop culture icons.

The Spirit of Bob Hope: One Hundred Years - One Million Laughs by Richard Grudens This biography by Grudens was written to commemorate Bob Hope's 100th birthday on May 29, 2003, and includes tributes by fellow celebrities (in their own words) and personal testimonies of admirers, as well as over 100 black and white photos. This bio spans from Hope's birth in England, to his days as a professional boxer, and his career in vaudeville, movies, stage, and TV.

Bob Hope: My Life in Jokes Bob Hope's daughter, Linda Hope, assembled this volume of 10 sections that progresses chronologically, from Hope's childhood until the present. The satirical, topical, and political nature of his jokes give a clue as to how Hope felt about personal and global issues. He was amusing, sometimes hilarious, mildy sharp, but never mean-spirited in is his humor.

Talk About Hope: Two Bob Hope Writers Trade Stories by Gene Perret, Martha Bolton, and Phyllis Diller. This is a great behind-the-scenes book by two of Hope's comedy writers. Enjoy the stories behind the jokes, a well as an inside look into Bob the man, as well as Bob the comedian.

Bob Hope: A Life in Comedy by William Robert Faith. This very funny biography takes a no-nonsense and gracious look at Bob Hope's career among professionals like Milton Berle and Jack Benny, as well as the crazy world of traveling comedians and Hope's amazing success.