I suspect most people are aware of my addiction to TCM. My sister and I are up every Sunday morning to watch Eddie Mueller and Noir Alley, a selection of crime noir from around the world. Periodically we’ll tune in to watch films from other genres hosted by the fine film buffs of TCM.

Last fall we had the opportunity to take a TCM movie cruise aboard the Disney Magic. Meeting these incredible hosts and attending film screenings hosted by these amazing filmphiles (I made that word up!) was a treat. There were also book signings by some. We happened to be shopping when we stumbled on the tail end of an Alicia Malone signing. I confess, I had no idea she wrote books. I knew her only as one of the TCM hosts. But there’s much more to Ms. Malone.

As a virtually unknown author I carry copies of my “bite-sized reads” when I travel. I like to give these away to introduce readers to my books and it has proven to be a good way to reach out. I stopped to speak to Ms Malone, and on a whim offered her a copy of “Chattanooga Choo Choo”, one of my noir stories. This delightful young woman accepted my book enthusiastically! She didn’t hand it off to her assistant. She thanked me. Thrilled by her kindness I asked if I could have a photo with her.

“Of course,” she said as she squatted down beside my wheelchair, held up MY book and smiled for the picture. I didn’t realize she’d been holding the book, MY BOOK, until I viewed the photo later.

On returning home I made it my business to check out her books. I chose “Girls on Film” as my first venture into her prose. Here is my review. I hope someday she gets to read it, because I’m very impressed.

The book by Alicia Malone, “Girls on Film: Lessons from Watching Women in Movies”, is not only about women who have become famous for their movies. This is a book about a young girl in Australia who found joy in watching films. It reveals the way who and what we see on screen can influence our lives. It’s the inspiring tale of a girl who grew into a successful woman through sharing her love, her insights, and her passion for film.

Malone takes the reader from her introduction to movies through her exploration of genres, the influence of films and great actresses, and how perseverance can lead to the job of your dreams.

It’s a fascinating journey where the reader “watches” Malone’s transition from a girl watching movies to an observant viewer translating the nuances of films into easily understood terms. Her delight at each new film is contagious. She writes of well-known movies and actresses and their impact on her development.

Malone’s ability to blend her memories with movie history brings to mind my own journey into films. Her remembrances of movies she loved, her exploration of various genres, the impact they made on her life are relatable to anyone, regular movie goers as well as those of us who may be a bit obsessive about our favorites.

Perhaps most impressive is Malone’s ability to transition that love of film into a distinguished career. I admire her for the dedication and determination she used to make a name for herself doing something so special in her life. Her enthusiasm in both her writing and as a host is contagious.

Malone has yet another dream to fulfill. She would like to own a movie theater in a small town. As far as I know she hasn’t succeeded… yet! I have no doubt she will someday accomplish this. Meanwhile, in 2021 she joined the Board of Directors for the historic Strand Theatre in Rockland, Maine. I would be delighted to take a trip if only to see the films presented.

This book is informative, insightful, and guaranteed to take any reader back to their early movie experiences. For me, it was exciting to find someone I could relate to, despite a huge age difference and diverse backgrounds. I highly recommend this book to anyone. Whether you’re a cinephile or just looking for a good non-fiction book, this is a worthwhile read. I’m definitely going to check out her other books.

• Girls on Film: Lessons From a Life of Watching Women in Movies (Book Preview) https://youtu.be/2sh7ihVaMEg?si=_2NdMQg6GALAtgW- Alicia Malone Shares the Magic of the Strand Theatre in Rockland, Maine https://youtu.be/z_AoUiuS1Zo?si=z5SN1vh2jt8RJ6O7