Customer Reviews

A Butler's Life: Scenes from the Other Side of the Silver Salver

5 star:		(9)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(0)
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"The walls were paneled in exquisite African zebra wood, and the powder blue wall-to-wall carpet under my feet was easily two inches thick . . . on one wall, a built-in marble-topped sideboard and glass cupboard spotlighted Waterford crystal, each glass in its own custom-cut hole, and luminous pearl-white china (was) monogrammed in gold . . ."

"I could see a number of sweeping border gardens, each containing perennials and climbing roses in softer hues of salmon, shell pink and lilac . . . Climbing tendrils of amethyst bougainville nearly obscured the trunks of the large palm trees that dotted the lawn, their fronds making a papery swishing sound as the light breeze played through them . . . culminating in a grand circular portico, set off by a large fountain . . ."

"Stone balustrades surrounded the pristine white gravel paths that led through such delights as a rose garden, a formal French garden with topiary hedges and symmetrical ornamental trees, a flagstone-bordered koi pond replete with lily pads and burbling fountain and a sun garden set off by a large bronze sun sculpture."

While many of us would describe these idyllic surroundings as our dream vacation destination, Christopher Allen has called each of them his place of employment -- and these are only some of the intriguing locations that have benefited (so far!) from Chris's tenure as butler during his adventurous life.

A BUTLER'S LIFE contains humorous and entertaining reminiscences, and the author (who just happens to be his wife!) skillfully incorporates elegant recipes, practical entertaining tips and housekeeping suggestions throughout the book, in a series of sidebars. Topics range from how to prepare a gueridon dinner for four to a glossery of European restaurant personnel, from resuscitating a souffle (or how to make something wonderful out of a disaster) to a valet's tips to impeccable clothing.

The book would make a great gift for anyone, from the domestically challenged to those who are already ready to create exotic dishes while wearing elegant clothing. The book is delightfully fun, quirky and offbeat -- and, it's a terrific read, besides!

If you are in the industry of servicing the wealthy in private homes and estates, you will relate to this book and read it front to back with many giggles. If you are thinking of entering the industry of private home/estate employment, it is a must to forsee what really happens behind the scenes. Written by one of the best in the industry! I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the book and am a veteran agent to those who service private homes. A must for anyone in the industry!

Mr. and Mrs. Allen have assembled a finely crafted look into the life of a Butler. This page turning read allows the rich and non-rich a glimpse of life in this mysterious profession that has facinated so many into reading works by P.G Wodehouse, and sent to the movies to see Remains of the Day and Trading Places.

Mr. Allens account into the steps and stages also shows the rewards as well as the hardships associated with the profession.

Except for the small stint about his catering endevour I have found the book everything I had expected. If you are considering a life in the domestic profession or just fond of Jeeves then this book is for you.

This book is delightfully written and goes well beyond an interest in domestic helpers. Mr. Allen's experiences with people and places around the world hold the readers attention throughout. His humor keeps us anxiously expecting the next turn in a fascinating journey.

This book is based on the experience of C. Allen, not only does he show how to do every day service. But he is the living proof that a true butler cannot be made at some school, it comes from the hard, as he writes in his book: a glorified waiter! Well this one earns my respect.

It's a well-written book... and it offers a glimpse into the lives of millionaires and the aristocracy as well as the life of a butler and his experiences while in their employ, humorous anecdotes that had me laughing aloud, and sidebars including mouthwatering recipes and useful domestic hints.

I enjoyed it ... found it hard to lay the book down. And I'm wondering if "the butler" gives lessons.

A Butler's Life by Kimberly K. Allen and Christopher Allen is more than the story of how the "other half" lives. It is a picture of dedication and work ethics which are much needed in our world today. It elevates the world of service to its rightful place of honor in the world and does so with a delightful sense of humor.

I found this book to be an enjoyable accounting of a life that most people have only seen in the movies. The author tells you of a proffession that serves the affluent, without giving up anyones privacy. I think that attatude speaks volumes for the honor of the writer.

I have to admit that I've known Kimberly for years. She autographed my copy of this book, and when I got it, I began reading immediately. What a find. Not only do she and Chris open up the world of "butling" with all its traditions, etiquette, and unwritten rules of confidentiality, but they also provide a wide variety of tips on ironing, cooking, serving--skills that a regular person could use in the real world of those of us not well off enough to have someone else perform these tasks for us. The writing style is smooth and gentle and a pleasure to read. I loved this book.

A behind-the-scenes view of a butler's life and the evolution of this selfless profession. Well written, discreet, and entertaining, topped off with tips that can greatly improve the average person's skills in a variety of household tasks and entertaining preparations. I'm grateful to the author for taking the time put his knowledge and experiences on paper. Thank you.