2020 First Place Chanticleer International Book Awards for Uplifting Inspiring Non-Fiction
by Bill Pullen
Bill Pullen is a brilliant storyteller. Whether it’s his childhood encounter with a V1 flying bomb, a renegade monkey in Suriname, the time he had to fire George Carlin, or one of his many other recollections, you will feel as though you were right there when the action happened.
His story begins with heartwarming memories of his early years on the outskirts of London during World War II. Following his first job as a bartender at The Savoy Hotel in London, he accepted a one-year assignment at the Hotel Plaza Athénée in Paris. While there a chance meeting with an American financier led to a once-in-a-lifetime job offer and his eventual emigration to the United States. From historic country inns to five-star hotels on three continents, he shares anecdotes of his experiences with friends, family, and a myriad of celebrities whom he met along the way.
All done with great humor and insight. Life goes on after retirement. In the final two chapters, Bill relates the importance of community involvement and the highly emotional connection he made while in Sri Lanka. That experience culminated in the creation of a foundation supporting some of that island’s poorest children and what became his lifetime passion and mission.
Meet the Author
Bill was born in rural England and is a graduate of the Westminster College Hotel School. After emigrating to the United States, he met and married Anita, the love of his life. She along, with their two daughters, Wendy and Diana, provided the love and support that served as the foundation of his success.
His collection of stories reflects his five-decade career in hotel management which spanned three continents and an array of properties from historic country inns to five-star hotels. His personal warmth and humor shine through his amusing and heartwarming reflections.
Bill enjoys a well-deserved retirement in Florida with his cat, Bunker. When he isn’t golfing, he enjoys spending time with his many friends, and, of course, sharing his stories.
Bill Pullen
