Eddie Fowlie's career in films spanned more than 50 incredible years as property master, special effects expert and all-round troubleshooter.

From modest beginnings, he burst into the movie industry during Hollywood's Golden Era, working with some of the world's leading film directors and biggest stars.

But it was his unique relationship with David Lean that set him apart. Fowlie was one of a select few ? a 'dedicated maniac' who understood the legendary director better than most. The two were a perfect foil for each other and became close friends, making five classic epics along the way.

Among his many cinematic achievements, Fowlie helped blow up the bridge on the River Kwai, cover the Spanish countryside in fake snow for Doctor Zhivago and create the famous quicksand scene in Lawrence of Arabia.

Outspoken and outrageously irreverent, Fowlie recounts his amazing life in this candid and wildly entertaining autobiography.