"Curiosity has always been a very important factor in my life---about all subjects. It's a thirst for knowledge. I have a standard motto and it's very short: 'A good education and a kind heart will serve you well throughout your entire life.' The more you know, the more knowledge you acquire, the better off you are in dealing with other people---the more you develop an understanding for other people."
-Alex Trebek
After the death of Alex Trebek very recently, I watched a TV documentary and learned a lot about the guy I thought of as just the host of "Jeopardy!" and there is so much more to know! It turns out he is very much a philanthropist and a family man. I requested the book from the library almost as soon as it was released, not really knowing Trebek's death was imminent. It took a while to receive it, showing how popular he is.
An easy and quick read with many photographs, this memoir/autobiography is a delight. Trebek tells of his early years in Canada, his first jobs and working his way through college, his start as a radio announcer and finally his career as a game show host. I didn't realize he hosted several different ones before "Jeopardy!"---"$128,000 Question," "Battle Stars," "Pitfall," "Double Dare," "Stars on Ice," "High Rollers"---some in Canada and some in the US. At the time of his death, he had hosted "Jeopardy!" for 36 seasons and won numerous awards.
He relates sweet family stories about his wife and grown children. He shares experiences on "Jeopardy!" with some well-known contestants and some not-so-famous. His charity work is inspiring---travel and work in Africa with World Vision and visiting troops with the USO, not to mention generous donations to many philanthropic efforts. Of course he shares some of his battle with pancreatic cancer, as well.
The title certainly refers to his work on "Jeopardy!" and so does the format of the book. Each of the short chapter titles begin with Who Is..., What Is..., The Answer Is... followed by a hint at the topic.
"Jeopardy!" is still showing games recorded with Alex through December. It is bittersweet watching the show and realizing he is gone. One can't help but wonder who will replace him as host. Some wonder if it might be Ken Jennings, a charismatic record-setting contestant.
I enjoyed the book---rating it a 5---and read it quickly so I can pass it on to a close friend who also enjoys the show. I have considered myself a "Jeopardy!" fan for years and now I have become an Alex Trebek fan!
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