Saying that Jerry Ziesmer probably has delivered the greatest assistant director book ever written doesn't do it justice...this book relates that biz and its lore with color, intimacy, candor and horse sense...

Directors Guild Of America Magazine

...one of the best books of the lot... Suffice it to say that Ziesmer's treatment of Apocalypse Now alone is worth the price of the volume. In addition, his discussion of other films that he worked on, including John Huston's Annie, is equally frank, incisive, and entertaining. Ready when You Are is a well-deserved toast to the unsung heroes of moviemaking - the assistant directors.

Literature/ Film Quarterly

...the book is at once so personal and so professional that you'll find yourself longing to have "been here when" and worked with Jerry either at DGA or on pictures or both. This is, quite simply, not only the best book ever written about what we so often bandy about as the "craft" of the Assistant Director, it is one of the best books I've read in a long time, period.

The Call Sheet

If you ever wondered who has the best behind-the-scenes anecdotes in Hollywood, then Ziesmer wins hands down. His book contains some astonishing tales, ranging from life-affirming friendships made under the most trying of circumstances through to the most indulgent star behaviour imaginable. Put it all together and you have an instant five-star classic.

Film Review

...Jerry Ziesmer, who has been a top AD in Hollywood for 30 years, has a real gift for writing that shines through in his recollections from the front lines of movie production. Ziesmer's war stories about filmmaking are hilarious, heartbreaking and hair-raising all at once, as he recounts his experiences...

American Cinematographer