1st Edition 1953. The authors own book. Autobiography of British composer, musician and author, Vivian Ellis, connected to the musical theatre for several decades. Presentation book from Michael Joseph the publisher of the book to the writer Vivian Ellis. Long inscription inside the book from Michael Joseph. Also includes two letters from Michael Joseph. It was customary to send a leather bound book from the publisher to the author to keep as their personal copy. Bound by Sangorski and Sutcliffe. Inscribed on the inner page. This item being part of the small collection of books, letters and papers recently acquired from his estate. Vivian Ellis was an English musical comedy composer best known for the song "Spread a Little Happiness". Ellis became the President of the Performing Right Society and in 1984 the society instituted an annual event - the Vivian Ellis Prize - to encourage young composers and lyricists to write for the musical stage. Several of the promising writers featured in the competition went on to success, including Charles Hart who wrote lyrics for Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical of The Phantom of the Opera. Book is near fine and very bright. Contents good. Wonderful binding quality.