Book Description

?????An American icon for more than half a century, Elizabeth Taylor continues to fascinate the American public. From the mainstream media to the tabloid press, no other celebrity has received such overwhelming scrutiny, stirred so much scandal, or alternately been the target of both worldwide worship and condemnation. And yet just when we thought we knew everything about this screen siren, Ellis Amburn blows the lid off of Hollywood's best-kept secrets-secrets that have allowed Hollywood's most beautiful woman to remain its most misunderstood celebrity.

?????In The Most Beautiful Woman in the World, Ellis Amburn taps into previously unexplored primary sources to reveal the tragedies and triumphs of Elizabeth Taylor's exciting and tumultuous life. This wonderful new biography poignantly recounts the successful removal of a golf-ball size brain tumor; her courageous recovery after breaking her back twice within two years; the exciting launch of her fragrance line, which became an instant success; and her loving relationship with Rod Steiger, who nurtured her back to health after a nervous breakdown. Amburn also reveals Taylor's tragic and heartbreaking affection for Montgomery Clift and James Dean and explores Taylor's disastrous marriage to the abusive and philandering Nicky Hilton, who abandoned Liz on their honeymoon to be with another woman. And then there is the infamous and cunning Eddie Fisher, who forced Liz to appear at his Las Vegas shows in order to bring in capacity crowds, as well as accounts of Richard Burton's homosexual activities and his exploitation of Taylor.

?????With explosive new revelations about her love affairs and marriages, Ellis Amburn creates a portrait that will redefine everything we thought we knew about Elizabeth Taylor. The most significant and overlooked truth in Taylor's life that all of her major loving relationships have been with gay men, while all of her self-destructive love affairs have been with straight men-is an insight that is destined to deepen our love and understanding of the world's most beautiful woman.

Reviews (7)

A Stormy Sexual History of Hollywood
This book is the tabloid version of an Elizabeth Taylor biography, reading like stiched-together daily exposes in such a newspaper. It displays in endless detail the sexual orientation of virtually everyone she ever spent time with, any arguments she ever had where someone else was present, and any unladylike things she may have said or done. Her movie work is discussed in terms of how it related to her marital relationships and financial problems. Occasionally, the book also criticizes her for having a healthy sexual appetite.

Normally, biographers either like the person they write about or want to create a more accurate account of the person. Mr. Amburn did not seem to fall into either of these categories. His objective seems to be to portray some of the other people in Ms. Taylor's life more sympathetically.

The book's main thesis is that Ms. Taylor has had loving relationships in her adult life with people who are gay or bisexual and unloving ones with everyone else. This connection is also made to Ms. Taylor's relationship with her father, despite the fact that she did not have a good relationship with him. But the book doesn't get beyond that into much of the motivation. Many men were attracted to Ms. Taylor like moths to the flame, and this attraction did nothing to bring out their better qualities. She seems to have lived in a world where her physical attractiveness made her a target for fans, men, and exploiters of all sorts. Little is made of the potential to see her as victim of peoples' perceptions of someone who is physically attractive. She also doesn't seem to get enough credit for generally being an open-minded person, which may explain her lack of sexual-orientation prejudice.

According to press reports and this book, Ms. Taylor has had more than her share of illness, injury, and physical and emotional pain. Yet she has led a generally productive artistic life, and has played an increasingly important role in bringing sympathy and support to the cause of overcoming AIDS. It would have been natural to have focused on these positive reflections of her underlying character, and the difficulties involved in overcoming ceaseless, searing pain addiction. No one is going to be perfect under such circumstances. Yet the book wallows in her use of drugs and drinking to soften the pain, in endless tales that add little to the biography.

Naturally, Ms. Taylor is famous in part for her marital difficulties. Those should have been in the book, but they became too much of the book to be rewarding to the reader.

As someone who was a working actress for most of her life, another aspect of the book you might expect would be extended dicussions of her work. You will find relatively little of that. It is as though the author thinks that her work is of virtually no importance. I certainly was moved by her performances in National Velvet, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Giant, and Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? I liked her performances in many other movies. I would have liked to have read much more about her work in these roles where she was more successful.

The best part of this book is the beautiful color photograph of Ms. Taylor on the cover.

If you are wondering why I did not give the book a one star review, it is because the photographs are good and the writing style is perfectly adequate. The three star downgrade is for misfocus, exploitation, and a hidden agenda.

After you finish looking at Ms. Taylor's cover photograph, consider what you would like to know more about public figures. Then when you are thinking about reading a biography about that person, check to see if the biography focuses on the areas you care about before reading them. That will save you a lot of time.

Also, ask yourself how we should consider someone's life. To what extent should we consider good deeds? Bad deeds? Repentance? Motives? Physical appearance? Obstacles to progress? Ms. Taylor's life raises these issues rather nicely.

By the way, if you find a biography of Ms. Taylor that you like, please do write to me. I'd like to read it.

There's nothing like a DAME
As another reviewer said, I have read most ot the biographies written about Elizabeth Taylor, and I am usually disappointed! They seem to never capture the woman; the authors tend to rehash old news clippings, or scandal sheet gossip.In doing this, the authors never do this woman justice. Not only is Elizabeth an icon of our time, but she has become one of countries greatest AIDS activists.This in itself took tremendous courage! There is more to this woman than celluloid, and ex-husbands. Face it, she's one great dame! I wish to some day read a biography of her that truly celebrates the woman that is Elizabeth Taylor!

What a Life . . .I Suppose
It's not the author's fault, but unfortunately the subject of this book is extremely boring. Two words describe Elizabeth Taylor's life, at least prior to her involvement with AIDS funding and research: WRETCHED EXCESS. This is not a fun read, not because the author didn't try, but because he wrote about a person that just wasn't very interesting.

elizabeth transcends even biographies
I was mesmerised by this book -- of course with all biographies, one takes it with a grain of salt, but I was most impressed with was how Taylor handled her career like a man -- how she was able to go on despite the pressures of her situation. the love story between burton and taylor shines through, and I think I understand a little more about love, even though theirs was a tumultuous one. she is a role model for people in the performing arts who turn their attention toward great and needdy causes, and I respect her immensely. long may she rule as the last star of hollyowood.

How To Destroy The Validity of One's Writing
[seemingly w]ritten for obvious exploitive reasons, the author has done a greatdeal of research and twisted facts to fit the author's purposes. One of the hints is a quote attributed to Tallulah Bankhead about Tab Hunter's sexuality. The "real" quote has been printed ad nauseum and if [she] can't get THIS one right.... ... Read more

Book Description

A fascinating look at the life and career of Absolutely Fabulous star Joanna Lumley. ... Read more

Book Description

This authoritative biography of film icon James Dean offers a clear-eyed look at the actor who crossed America's cinematic landscape with the brilliance and brevity of a meteor. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Good Book
I just finished reading this book about two weeks ago. I had never read any other James Dean books and I thought this was a very good book, very informative. I didn't get bored or bogged down once. I enjoyed every part of it - Jimmy's early life, life in New York, and his short, but brilliant Hollywood career. I would get totally absorbed in reading it, sometimes staying up way too late just because I couldn't put it down.

I have read other reviews that consider this book "generic" or more detached, but since I am not a James Dean expert, and have never read a book on him before, I can only give my perspective and opinions. I thought this was a very well-written and researched book. I am now reading "James Dean, little boy lost," by Joe Hyams, which I bought through an Amazon Marketplace buyer.

A closer look at the lonely rebel
Supports info on why James Dean did the things he did. And what his emotions were like, and why he was bisexual. I don't want to spoil it though. I'll just say that of the four bio's I read on James Dean (the others being "Boulivard of Broken Dreams," "The Death of James Dean," & "James Dean: a biography by Val Holly") this is the best one so far.

Jimmy Dean as a human-man!
This is the best book out there on the life of James Byron Dean. It is not only concerned with the things that he did, but whom he affected personally, and the psychological reasoning behind the actions of this tortured genious. This book leaves no loose-ends untied in it's deconstruction of an icon, so that we can better understand Jimmy the man. This wonderfull book makes you feel as though you know James Dean for who he really was, and not for "whatever people wanted him to be". James B. Dean was complicated, tortured, conflicted and was a bottomless well for everyone's love. This James Dean is both more heroic and tragic than the Studios made him out to be, he is a confused, self-conscious boy. This is the real James Dean. Other attempts at recollecting his life are either glorified, or romanticized. Read this book, if you are a real fan of James Dean the person, not James Dean the legend.

Can we say... generic?
Yeah... I got this book as kind of a last resort, because the actual book about Dean that I wanted, wasn't available. Near the beginning of the book, when they are talking about his childhood, there are at least 5 pages about the times in which Dean grew up. I didn't buy this book to read about the History of Indiana.

Rebel : The Life and Legend of James Dean
Of the 18 books I have read on James Dean, this is one of my favorite. Spoto is interested in exploring the psychological reasons for Dean's behavior, both positive and negative. He constantly makes reference to the abandonment issues of Dean's childhood as the answer for his every move as an adult. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

I returned it for a refund.
This book is by a well-intentioned but underinformed fan? Supposedly the Brits are huge fans of Doris--this one didn't do his homework. One of the photos (of a lady standing up in a car on the MGM lot) is attributed to be Doris but is a photo of June Allyson!!! That kind of schlock-ily written and edited book does a disservice to the lovely actress/singer.

thin on photos,emaciated on bio- ,but nice cover and typeset
I expected thin - the book is thin - but emaciated? The author himself says the book was proposed as a picture book and yet the book is thin on illustrations and thin on biographical info, and flat writing for such a iconic woman. What accompanying "biographical" info there is, is really only cursory and focuses more on her singing than her acting. (one more mention of che sera sera and I'll go nuts -- and isn't it spelled "que sera sera"??). "Illustrated biography" is hardly a fitting title. The book would have been more aptly marketed as a book superficially chronicling Doris Day's singing credits. The only insightful editorializing the authors puts forth are quotes from Doris's autobiography.

WARNING: THIS BOOK IS FILLED WITH INACCURACIES!
THE ONLY REASON I GAVE THIS BOOK ONE STAR IS FOR THE PHOTOS, ALTHOUGH ONE PHOTO, SUPPOSEDLY OF DORIS, IN ACTUALITY IS JUNE ALLYSON! UNFORGIVABLE! THE AUTHOR OBVIOUSLY DID NOT DO HIS HOMEWORK. HE PAINTS A TOTALLY MISLEADING PORTRAYAL OF DORIS DAY. IF YOU WANT TO READ A GOOD, DEPENDABLE BIO OF DORIS, CHECK OUT HER 1975 BIOGRAPHY, ENTITLED "DORIS DAY, HER OWN STORY," BY A. E. HOTCHNER ("PAPA HEMINGWAY"). THIS IS A GREAT BOOK, HONEST (SOMETIMES BRUTALLY SO!) WITH GREAT COMMENTS FROM DD'S CO-STARS AND BUSINESS ASSOCIATES. TRY TO GET A COPY ON E-BAY...IT'S A GREAT READ! ... Read more

Book Description

Richard Schickel's text, combining critical analysis and a re-interpretation of all the available biographical information, masterfully maps the intersections where a great star's personal history and his screen personality met in a style as elegant, graceful and witty as the actor himself. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A nice analysis of Grant's film career...
Often, to sell copies, authors of celebrity biographies stoop to including gossip, rumors, and throughly unsubstantiated claims to ruin the reputation of the celebrity. Among other things, the nice thing about Cary Grant A Celebration is that it does not need to resort to these tactics, which are very tasteless, not to mention disrespectful for the celebrity involved.

In addition to having its lack of gossip as a recommendation, A Celebration is really a clear, interesting analysis of Cary Grant's career. It goes through each movie he made, reviews it, and presents a comprehensive theory on Grant's work and the times and man that led to its creation. The reviews, which are blended in to the narrative, are very useful for fans who want to know which movies are worth watching besides the obvious choices.

So, anyhow, this book has a simple but truthful biography of a real Hollywood legend, whose talent and originality on screen was only matched by his reticence and desire for privacy off of it. It is also a useful reference. For all of Cary Grant's fans and anyone interested in classic cinema in general, this is highly recommended. If you aren't interested in any of the above things, why are you looking here anyhow?

Impeccably tasteful at all times
Lavish pictorial biography illuminates this enchanting and enigmatic actor who has given countless hours of entertainment. This tribute interweaves a critical analysis of Grant's films--including such classics as She Done Him Wrong, Bringing Up Baby, His Girl Friday, The Philadelphia Story, Notorious, and To Catch A Thief--with biographical insights that provide a unique understanding of his art and his contribution to the history of film. A wealth of photos enliven fond memories while Mr. Schickel's text, ina style that approaches the elegance of the actor himself, masterfully maps the intersection where a great legend's personal history and screen personality meet. Illustrated throughout with black and white photography.

Flowery, but no substance
Richard Schickel seems to love Cary Grant. And good on him. What he fails to do is translate that love to a book that should convey to the reader the life of Cary Grant.

He spends most of the book waxing lyrical about the different roles he has played and how his own personal feelings are represented in the roles he undertakes.

In a book that claims "to be more than a review of his movies" Richard Schickel completely bypasses his non-film achievements and notoriety. Maybe he is trying to shield the reader from his more questionable side.

The only refreshing deviance from the morbidity is the suggestion of his homosexuality, which is quickly refuted by another few pages of dripping prose.

I am now searching for another book to provide me an insight into this man. This one did not do it for me. ... Read more

Book Description

In 1930 William Haines was Hollywood's number-one box-office draw--a talented,handsome, romantic lead. Offscreen, he was openly gay. This bestselling biography captures the rich gay subculture of Hollywood before the Production Code--before studio intimidation led to the establishment of the Hollywood closet. Alone among his contemporaries, Billy Haines refused to compromise and was ultimately booted out by Louis B. Mayer. Forced to give up acting, Haines went on to become a top interior designer to the stars and to clients such as Nancy Reagan. By his side through it all was his lover, Jimmie Shields; their fifty-year relationship led their best friend, Joan Crawford, to call them the "happiest married couple in Hollywood." Wisecracker is an astounding piece of newly discovered gay history, a chronicle of high Hollywood, and--at its heart--a great and enduring love story. ... Read more

Reviews (25)

Interesting read about Haines; but, not the best "study...
...of Gay Hollywood"... I enjoyed reading this book. I knew nothing about William Haines's life...And this book tells an interesting story without getting into unnecessary "juicy details", that fill up many other gay people's bios, regardless of whether they are true or not. Nowadays, many authors seem to think that its their duty to write A LOT about sex and to insert every gossip imaginable into every single chapter of their books, when it comes to writing about gay people. I am grateful to Mann for not doing that. Of course, he gives us a fair share of "gay insights" and "outtings" (whether they are true or not, again, it is hard to tell, but none of them is distasteful. He also can not resist the temptation of sounding somewhat "prophetic" and judgemental about gay actors, just like so many other authors do. It is especially obvious, when Mann talkes about Cary Grant. (BY THE WAY, the book says very little about Cary Grant directly in relation to Willaim HAINES, as one of the critics claimed it does). I mean, we do not really get to hear what Haines had to say about Cary Grant ( and about many of his so-called friends, for that matter...). THIS IS WHAT I DID NOT LIKE ABOUT THIS BOOK. I realize, that it is a bio, not an autobio, but still...If there was not enough credible material about others, why mention them at all? Why not just talk about the main man, Haines? He seems to have been an interesting enough subject to fill three bio book, not just one. Anyway, despite minor shortcomings, this BOOK IS TASTEFULLY WRITTEN, and that in itself, is an achievement among the endless stream of rubbish that is published today.

A Look at the Social Swirl of Old Hollywood
Williams Haines is perfectly suited as a lens through which to examine life, gay life in particular, in old Hollywood when the silents were king and when they first fell. William J. Mann in Wisecracker (The Life and Times of William Haines, Hollywood's First Openly Gay Star) captures this time with exuberance. The author shows the social scene and fills it out with many, many captivating stars and scandals, gossip and gay parties. Williams Haines was young with the movies and it shows. The added bonus of the book is the long portion of William Haines life during which he was not a movie star. There is an emotional resonance to the last third of the book the deepens the fun of the first two-thirds. A wonderful look at a life lived honestly for its time and the story of a love that survived for decades under all of that honesty.

A sloppy job
This book was a major disappointment. It could have been good. Unfortunately, once you throw out all the regurgitated gossip, conjecture, and seemingly endless repetition, there's not much real information on William Haines. It doesn't help that Mann doesn't seem to know (or care) that he frequently contradicts himself. Potentially interesting topics - that Haines may have been a manic depressive, to name just one - are touched on, but Mann prefers rehashing old publicity to attempting any real insight.
One of the more irritating aspects of this book is the repeated emphasis on how "cultured" Haines was. He quit school at age 14; how and when he acquired the "culture" he was so famous for is never really made clear. It's possible that he educated himself in art, music, literature, etc., which would be laudable as well as interesting, but if this side of Haines existed, Mann does him a huge disservice by ignoring it. Apparently it's enough for Mann that Haines was well-versed in antiques and Emily Post's Etiquette.
As has been pointed out in other reviews, Mann's research leaves a lot to be desired. Take, for example, his reference in Chapter Four to Gloria Swanson's "marriages to European royalty." Supposedly Mann read Swanson's autobiography; of her six husbands -and she discusses each one-only two were Europeans and neither one was a member of a royal family. Sounds like nitpicking, but that's just one of several statements based on slipshod research.
Then there's the question of style. Mann's prose is, on the whole, pedestrian, except when he tries to be imaginative, and then the results are laughable. You may be amused by Barbara La Marr's "extravagant green eyes," but my personal favorite is "Already movies [sic] stars like Gloria Swanson and Rudolph Valentino were building outrageous castles to their absurd fame." Say what?
Overall, I think Haines probably deserved better than this. There may be, buried in all the muck, a truly interesting and even admirable man. Mann tries to tell that there is, but he's too fascinated by the muck to present a clear picture of the man.

Things you can tell just by skimming through it
This book is very informative and full of eye-opening photographs. It reflects an issue that needs to be addressed much, much more. I already knew much about this silent star, and have learned more just by simply skimming through Mr. Mann's excellent survey. I definitely recommend it as I also recommend another of the author's books, which I am currently reading as well, "Behind the Screen: How Gays and Lesbians Shaped Hollywood 1910-1969."

AN ALMOST TRUE BOOK
For those looking for an introduction to the career of William Haines and for some insights into gay life in the 1920s and 1930s, this book will suffice. But it has as its grounding assumptions several false facts.
1) William Haines was not the biggest moneymaker or the biggest star at MGM in 1930. He was not the Gay Gable. That "fact" is gleaned from one minor poll of distributors and is not reflective of the reality that by 1930 -- even 1929 -- Haines was fading.
2) Haines was fading partly because he was losing his looks -- an odd thing to say about a thirty year old man -- but true. He was getting heavy; he was losing his hair, and he was losing the boyish look that had been the source of his appeal.
3) Anyone who has ever seen a Haines talkie will understand why his career faded. His wiseguy personna did not translate well to the talking screen. He was, in a word, obnoxious. He looked like a big obnoxious stiff.
4) Mann says that changing mores in Hollywood, mores that would soon result in the Hays Code, partly brought about Haines's downfall. Wrong. Haines was already finished by 1932, long before the Code was instituted. And in any case the Code wasn't a product of some kind of consensus within Hollywood. And there could have been no moral re-trenchment in Hollywood, in anticipation of the Code, because in 1932, no one saw it coming. And to know that, all one has to do is watch some 1932 movies.
5) Half the people Mann says were gay weren't.
6) Some of the sex stories are specious, undocumented, seventy-year-old gossip.
7) Haines gayness was a nuisance, so far as MGM was concerned, but if his movies were making money the studio would have kept him indefinitely. He was dropped because his movies were tanking.
There was an honest story to tell here. Haines was a fairly major actor (for about three years). He was gay. He was out. He traveled in an interesting circle. That's all here, too. It's just the connections, the conclusions, the assumptions and the assertions that need to be taken with a bucket of salt. ... Read more

Book Description

The most ambitious and personal account ever written about Hollywood's most gracious star-Audrey Hepburn by Barry Paris is a "moving portrayal" (The New York Times Book Review) that truly captures the woman who captured our hearts...

With the insights of family and friends who never before spoke to a Hepburn biographer-and never-before-published photographs-Paris has created an in-depth portrait of the actress, from her childhood in Nazi-occupied Europe, through her legendary career, and into her UN ambassadorship.

"Rich and definitive...fascinating." (*Seattle Post-Intelligencer)

"Illuminates the complex inner life of the highest-paid actress of her time." (San Francisco Chronicle)

"Certainly [Paris's] account seems more personal than other recent biographies of Hepburn have been. In part, this may be because Paris had better access to family and friends, but he is also a very good writer, and his mix of anecdote and observation is just right." (Booklist) ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Excellent
A biographer shouldn't lower your opinion of the person they're writing about (as if you could ever
have a low opinion of Audrey Hepburn!) and Barry Paris certainly does a brilliant job of depicting
Audrey's life from age 15 until her death (age 64). The author blends his words so you don't loose
interest even once. The book has lots of quotes, from and about Audrey, and several pictures of
her throughout her life. There isn't a down side to this book, except for a few subjects where the author
should have elaborated on a bit more than he did. You can clearly see that Audrey was a truly
wonderful person, a real lady. After you read about what a hard childhood she had, in the middle
of WW2 and the miscarriages she suffered and basically being deprived of love from her parents,
it is amazing that she was still such a beautiful person, a beautiful soul. She traveled to countries to
help dying people and did things that few other people would do...she seems to have been an
angel, and certainly was to several people. This is a book that you don't need to read before buying, it's wonderful.

A must for every Audrey Hepburn fan!
Even before reading this stunning portrait of Ms. Hepburn, I was a devoted fan of hers. Now that I've read this very thorough account of her life, I love her even more. This book is definitely a must for every Audrey Hepburn fan! Barry Paris has written such an impressive chronicle of her life; I came away feeling as if I knew Ms. Hepburn personally! It is a wonderful read, and a triumph for Mr. Paris. If you read nothing else about Audrey, read this! This book has it all! Thank-you, Barry Paris!

Audrey,you were a true lady
I congratulate Barry Paris on a great biography of Audrey Hepburn.This book deserves at least 6 stars!Before I read the book,I had a lot of respect for Audrey Hepburn-but after reading this book,I have the utmost respect for her and admire her greatly.She was a saint and certainly was an attractive lady.You really have to feel sympathetic and empathetic for her with all the disappointments and hardships she had to confront throughout her life.A lot of people think that movie stars come from well-to-do families and lead charmed lives-not Audrey Hepburn.Her life is of horror,loss of love, and tradegy:(at six years of age, her father left the family leaving her forever heartbroken;she would witness the execution of an uncle and cousin during nazi occupied Holland;later in life,suffer 5 miscarraiges and 2 devastating divorces).There were happy moments of her life, too;film stardom, 2 marriages and two sons.These accounts of her life forged the true and genuine heart that she had. All through her life,Audrey Hepburn was a woman of love, and cared very much for the well being of others-she was not a selfish person.All her life, she helped others before helping herself.These acts of kindness, compassion, and caring was certainly genuine,and Audrey certainly was giving from her heart and soul.In her last years of her life ,she would be an ambassador of UNICEF, helping the children of impoverished nations. This book tells never known things about this selfless lady that thought of others more than herself.Mr.Paris certainly has done a great deal of research(looking at all the acknowlegements and bibliographies in the back of the book should tell you this man went through great lengths).This is a great book written about a real lady with a heart of gold.

Absoulutely Audrey!
If you are interested in Audrey Hepburn this is a great start. THis book is amazing. It really shows how she is.

Outstannding.
Enough words can never be said about one of the most beautiful actresses of all time, so will not try here. Instead I will say a few words about Barry Paris. Biographer Barry Paris is in class all by himself , he really has a flair for telling a story. If you are looking for a particular biography and Barry Paris wrote it disregard all others for his. ... Read more

Book Description

"Here, in my own words and as I remember them, are my cherished stories about a lifetime of fun and love and laughter...I've never thought of my jewelry as trophies. I'm here to take care of it and to love it, for we are only temporary custodians of beauty."

--Elizabeth Taylor

She has mesmerized movie audiences since her debut in National Velvet at the age of twelve, dazzled both men and women with her luminous beauty and iconic presence, displayed shrewd business acumen by creating a line of fragrances with unparalleled success, and her AIDS activism has been a call to arms for people around the world. She is Hollywood's greatest living star and a living legendElizabeth Taylor.

One of her greatest passions is jewelry, and over the years she has amassed one of the world's foremost collections. By the time she was in her thirties, Elizabeth Taylor already owned an outstanding set of Burmese rubies and diamonds from Cartier, a fantastic emerald and diamond suite from Bulgari, and the 33.19-carat Krupp diamond, a gift from Richard Burton. That ring was later eclipsed by a subsequent gift from Burton, when he bought a staggering 69.42-carat pear-shaped diamond. Newly named the Taylor-Burton Diamond, it catapulted Elizabeth Taylor into that rarefied pantheon of great jewelry collectors.

In this revealing book, Elizabeth Taylor offers a personal guided tour of her collection. She takes us into her confidence, sharing personal anecdotes, witty asides, and intimate reminiscences about her life, her loves, and her collection. Whether talking about the famous La Peregrina pearl, which was briefly abducted by a household pet, or chatting about a childhood gift to her mother, Elizabeth Taylor shows herself to be the most seductive of storytellers: direct, irreverent, and charming.

Complementing the stories are 125 stunning new photographs of her most remarkable pieces, specially commissioned for this book, and more than 150 rarely seen images (many from Elizabeth Taylor's personal collection) of the star wearing her jewelry over the course of almost sixty years. We see her as a young ingenue of fifteen wearing what would be the first of many charm bracelets, and again, equally dazzling, as a mature woman, wearing the famous Duchess of Windsor diamond brooch, which she purchased to benefit AIDS research.

Elizabeth Taylor: My Love Affair with Jewelry marks the first time this beautiful jewelry will be seen together as a collection. Lavishly produced and illustrated, the book has an introduction by the world-renowned authority on jewelry, François Curiel, of Christie's. It is for those who are enchanted by this most incandescent and enduring star, for those who cherish and dream of jewelry, and most importantly, for those who believe in the true meaning of love. This book is a fabulous display of unbelievable glamour, assembled over a lifetime, by one of the most extraordinary women in the world. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Exquisite jewels for an Exceptional Lady
Elizabeth Taylor's MY LOVE AFFAIR WITH JEWELRY is one of the most sumptuous and beautifully-made books on the subject of fine jewelry. This is not only a great gift idea for the Elizabeth Taylor fan or for jewelry lovers, it is also a wonderful book to be pored over time and time again.

The quality of the photos is top-notch, many are full-page and in gloriously rich color. The book itself is quite large, so many photos of the individual pieces are enlarged to show the superb craftmanship and detail from the world's premier jewelers: Harry Winston, Bulgari, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Schlumberger (of Tiffany fame), and on and on.

The stories behind some of these world-famous gems are quite charming and have been told in countless biographies of Dame Elizabeth. My favorite has to be the story of the Cartier-Burton diamond, at the time of its purchase in 1968, the highest price paid at auction for a diamond. The flawless 69.42 carat pear-shaped diamond was even featured in the Guiness Book of Records for many years. The pictures featuring La Liz wearing it are breathtaking. There is another story that Liz and Richard Burton were visiting Lucille Ball on the set of The Lucy Show, as Liz was going to guest-star in an episode. Of course, the Cartier diamond was the talk of the world, so Lucy asked if she could try it on. Liz Taylor has always been more than glad to let friends try on her jewelry, so she obliged Lucy. Well, Lucy could not get it off and she literally panicked. They tried in vain to get the ring off and finally succeeded, with much giggling from everyone. It is the spirit with which Liz Taylor enjoys her jewelry that I find so endearing and fun.

Many of the pieces in her collection are of historical interest, like the Shah Jehan Diamond and the La Peregrina pearl. Liz even wore La Peregrina in a movie starring her husband Richard Burton. There are several movie stills showing her wearing it while in period costume.

This is a book to be enjoyed for many years!

Liz's Jewels
This is an absolutely breaktaking book. It has 280 illustrations, 175 of them in color, and many of them from Elizabeth Taylor's personal collection. I cannot stress how vivid and gloriously they capture the beauty of Ms. Taylor and her jewelry. The wonderful stories that go along with many of the pieces portray Elizabeth as a witty, warm ... and yes, cunning woman. I've always been a huge fan of hers, but this book has made me even more so.
Although Ms. Taylor own magnificent pieces from some of the most famous jewelers of all time ... Cartier, Bulgari, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Jean Schlumberger (Tiffany & Co.) ... many of my favorite's were her historical pieces. Like the Duchess of Windsor's diamond brooch, the Taj Mahal diamond, La Peregrina, and a beautiful bracelet from the collection of King Farouk.
The book also has a wonderful index that describes almost every piece in the book, along with who bought it and where. Some of you may be surprised to find that although Richard Burton and Mike Todd sure knew how to spoil a girl, Ms. Taylor did buy a lot of her jewelry herself. I also read from one of the following reviews that Ms. Taylor did not say who or why she sold the 69.42 carat Taylor-Burton diamond. I can't tell you why she sold it, but the index says she sold it in 1978 to a jeweler named Lambert who in turn sold it to Mr. Robert Mouawad in December of 1979.
So, even if you don't particulary care for Elizabeth Taylor and her legendary love affair with jewels, this book leaves little or no doubt that Ms. Taylor is definitely one of the most beautiful women of all time and her jewels are some of the most fabulous.

Exquisite
I have admired Elizabeth Taylor and her love of fine jewelry for many, many years. This book is a visual treat and a must have for anyone who loves jewelry.

Grandma loved it
I didn't read this book. I bought it as a gift for my 87 year old grandmother. Someone had mentioned this book on another website and I came here to look it over.

I was impressed. The photographs I saw and the reviews were impressive. I knew she would love it. I bought it for her for Mother's Day.

She phoned me to tell me how much she LOVED it! I've never seen her go on and on about a book. I know if she didn't love the book she would have just said "Thank you sweetheart." But this was a different reaction. Her friends have seen the book on the table in the living room and tell her how much they love it. And how the photographs are superb.

I'm sure when I visit her I will spend hours looking at this book at her house. She told me that she spent hours and hours just sitting in the chair looking at all the great photos.

Liz's Jewels
This is an absolutely breath-taking book. It has 280 illustrations, 175 of them in color, and many of them from Elizabeth Taylor's personal collection. I cannot stress how vivid and gloriously they capture the beauty of Ms. Taylor and her jewelry. The wonderful stories that go along with many of the pieces portray Elizabeth as a witty, warm ... and yes, cunning woman. I've always been a huge fan of hers, but this book has made me even more so.
Although Ms. Taylor own magnificent pieces from some of the most famous jewelers of all time ... Cartier, Bulgari, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Jean Schlumberger (Tiffany & Co.) ... many of my favorite's were her historical pieces. Like the Duchess of Windsor's diamond brooch, the Taj Mahal diamond, La Peregrina, and a beautiful bracelet from the collection of King Farouk.
The book also has a wonderful index that describes almost every piece in the book, along with who bought it and where. Some of you may be surprised to find that although Richard Burton and Mike Todd sure knew how to spoil a girl, Ms. Taylor did buy a lot of her jewelry herself. I also read from one of the following reviews that Ms. Taylor did not say who or why she sold the 69.42 carat Taylor-Burton diamond. I can't tell you why she sold it, but the index says she sold it in 1978 to a jeweler named Lambert who in turn sold it to Mr. Robert Mouawad in December of 1979.
So, even if you don't particulary care for Elizabeth Taylor and her legendary love affair with jewels, this book leaves little or no doubt that Ms. Taylor is definitely one of the most beautiful women of all time and her jewels are some of the most fabulous. ... Read more

Book Description

In this innovative biography of one of Hollywood's most recently crowned kings, Gabor H. Wylie gives Russell Crowe fans what they've been longing for-the stories that make up a lifetime, little anecdotal gems strung together like pearls on a necklace. The star of Gladiator, The Insider, and L.A. Confidential is revealed as never before. From Crowe's New Zealand roots to his emotional Oscar triumph, Wylie traces his journey to stardom with true stories that have textured his life along the way. Imagine Crowe's campy portrayal of transvestite Frank N. Furter in an Australian stage production of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Or the moment Crowe revealed to his shocked father that, since the family couldn't afford to send him to university to study history as he had planned, he intended to make his way as a performer. This is Russell Crowe-the dedicated musician, the acclaimed actor, the fascinating man. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

This is a FUN book on Russell Crowe all around!
5 stars! Why? Becuz it is a FUN book on a incredibly HOT celebrity! The book is NOT a biography, so that was shocking to me, but once I got over it, I was intrigued by its wit & fun stories of things Russell's life has been made up of. You just have to get it and read it to understand! I am very happy with it and loved the stories that took me away for awhile in the world, while I read them and enjoyed it!

Fantasy or Fallacy Maybe, but No Biography Here
This book would appeal to a much younger audience. In no way is A Life in Stories biographical in nature. The writer expands or embellishes previously written media reports about Russell Crowe with scenarios concocted in her own imagination. I do not need any help imagining things about Russell Crowe, thank you. I expected truth, but I might as well have gone to Wal-Mart and picked up the latest gossip Rag. This book is for teeny-boppers only!!

A very innovative biography about a very private star
This was an interesting read for me! I have been a fan of Russell Crowe's for a couple of years now and like most fans, have done extensive reading and research on him, but this is one of the most intriguing concepts in a biographical format.
The author has taken documented facts about Crowe's life from various internet and media sources (many of whom I have also gleaned considerable information from) but presented it in a unique style, as stories with imagined descriptions of the actual events and dialogue between Crowe and the key players in his life. It makes for what I feel is a intimate portrait of the notoriously private star, makes him very real somehow in a way that most newspaper and magazine articles can't. And I feel it captured Russell's intense, vibrant, colorful personality. If you are a fan, you must read this book. It'll paint a fascinatingly interesting portrait of someone that I feel is a fascinatingly interesting person. If you're a new fan, it'll be a fun introduction to Russell and the many aspects of his life and his career.

Fun, witty, innovative, and informative
I agree with another reviewer that sometimes myth reveals more than reality. Gabor H. Wylie's book is a tour de force in the way of celeb bios. With wit and energy, the author provides facts and fictions on the adored and revered Russell Crowe. I recommend this book to anyone looking for an entertaining page-turner, or just a good book to curl up under the covers with.

Interesting writing for a bio
I don't know why one of the other reviewers calls this "the worst excuse of a book." I thought it was funny and innovative. It was much more entertaining than other celeb bios--the writing was actually decent. I would suggest this book for fans, but also for people who are interested in a good read... ... Read more

Book Description

Film

The long-awaited republication of this captivating account of the star's life.

Louise Brooks left Wichita, Kansas, for New York City at age fifteen and lived the kind of life of which legends are made. From her beginnings as a dancer to her years in Hollywood, Berlin, and beyond, she was hailed and reviled as a new type of woman: independent, intellectually daring, and sexually free. In this widely acclaimed, first and only comprehensive biography, Barry Paris traces Brooks's trajectory from her childhood through her fall into obscurity and subsequent "resurrection" as a brilliant writer and enduring film icon.

"Star biographies don't get any better than Barry Paris's Louise Brooks." USA Today

"This account has the aphrodisiac gloss of Brooks herself: you meet the stare of a modern icon, a picture that taunts your inability to touch the real thing. A necessary and stimulating book, it is itself an important part of Brooks's life after death." The New Republic

"Absorbing, wonderfully well researched and, all in all, an exemplar of its kind." London Spectator

"Louise Brooks is not simply a summary of her movie plots and love affairs but a serious work of film and social history." New York Magazine

Barry Paris is an award-winning biographer, film and music critic, and contributor to the New Yorker, Vanity Fair, and other publications. He lives in Pittsburgh.

Translation Inquiries: Alfred A. Knopf ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Portrait of a career misspent and partially redeemed
Seeing Louise Brooks for the first time (in _Diary of a Lost Girl_)was one of the more memorable movie experiences for me; and then I was curious as to why an actress with such presence and natural acting skills didn't have more extensive screen credits. This book recounts why: she was impulsive, wilfully threw many opportunities away (including a role in Cagney's "Public Enemy"), and in the words from an Aerosmith song, "keep the right ones [people] out and let the wrong ones in."

As a whole I found this biography informative and balanced: it duly celebrates Brooks' gifts but doesn't downplay her faults -- and they (good and bad) were many; I suspect quite a few readers, like myself, will come away from this book much less enamoured with Brooks as a star but more sympathetic to her as a flawed but resilient individual. The book is also a fascinating introduction to the various personalities that Brooks came into contact with during her heydays, including Charlie Chaplin and Marion Davies.

On the negative side, I thought this biography relies too much on quoting wholesale various letters of Brooks (which aren't always reliable indicators of veracity) and offers no insight -- or at least reasonable speculation -- on several basic aspects of her life, such as whether she was ever with child.

Thorough study of a complex star
For years, I was fascinated by the image of Louise Brooks as a cultural icon, so what an experience it finally was to absorb both Pandora's Box and this biography at the same time. I have to admit that my early impressions of Brooks were shattered upon reading this, as I did not end up feeling sympathetic towards her. For an actress of such few movies, she was quite the snob in assessing the "worth" of everyone around her -- all because her deep knowledge of literature made her feel a great sense of superiority (talk about frivolous and delusional), and she carried that attitude to the grave. She even had the audacity to tell George Gershwin that most of his compositions were tripe. My, if only dear Louise had possessed a fraction of the talent that George had in his pinkie. And that's a major point that needs to be made about Brooks -- she was more about an amazing look and on-screen aura then she was about measured talent. Which is not to say that she couldn't have developed her skills, with a longer career, but we'll obviously never know for sure. On the one hand, you admire Brooks for her fire, independence and take-no-crap attitude; on the other hand, you're left feeling that her fate was largely self-induced, due to her unwavering impulsiveness. And I guess I'm in the minority who's not impressed with her comeback as an "expert" Hollywood historian. No doubt, she could write, but her opinions lack the immediacy of someone who was *there* when events happened. At least Bette Davis had many years of acting and firsthand work experiences behind her to make her viewpoints more intimate and colorful.

Overall, though, I'm glad I read this book. It's very well-written, entertaining to read, and full of enlightening anecdotes about the flapper age and Hollywood's internal politics. Brooks' complexity was well worth exploring -- even to those like myself who feel that Paris pays her more honor than she truly deserved.

Sad story, beautifully told.
Extremely detailed and slow biography of one of the most sexually attractive actresses of the silent movie, based on her diaries.
Her life can be summarized by 'sex and gin'.
Abused child; having an orgy of two months with Charles Chaplin; kicked out of Hollywood because of her unrestrained life style; her successes in Europe as Lulu; her life as an escort girl. Even this career was not to last, because she was unable to feign sexual pleasure. Her later days on the brink of suicide.
The author relates it with compassion and love.
He also gives an incisive picture of Hollywood in the twenties and thirties: amoral and corrupt.
A bright actress, but what a sad life behind the curtain.
A model biography.

I Adored This Book
Louise Brooks was a remarkable woman in many ways and this excellent biography depicts her entire story in a way that lets us truly get to know this fascinating and original individual. Louise was far more than just a pretty face. She had talent oozing from literally every pore of her body. I have caught the bug and am now a devoted Brooks fan for life, and finding this book by fellow Pittsburgher Barry Paris has enriched my knowledge of Louise for which I will be forever grateful. Thank you Barry, this is wonderful research you've done for us here, and all fans of Louise Brooks owe you a standing ovation!

There aren't many biographies on Louise that I could find outside of this book and Louise's own autobiography of sorts, titled "Lulu in Hollywood", but there isn't room for many more as this thorough study covers everything one would wish to know about Louise Brooks and her fascinating life onscreen and off.

Tired of the typical spoiled starlet of yesteryear? Think all old-time actors were all the same? Boy are you wrong, and this book will prove it to you! This is one woman who breaks down all conventions and shatters all illusions. Louise Brooks was a true original in every sense of the word!

Have a look and you too will fall in love with Louise Brooks.

Absolutely Excellent
The Barry Paris biography of Louise Brooks is a harrowing, riveting and brilliant recollection of an obscure but genius silent film star. The wit, venom and power of Louise Brooks as an author, actor, and person are brought to light in this accessible and entertaining book. It is the bible for all fans of Louise Brooks and should be required reading for anyone with an interest in Hollywood, silent film, dance, and the fine art of celebrity. If you have half a brain and can get one eye open, this is the book for you. ... Read more

Book Description

Dorothy Dandridge's life story is the stuff Hollywood dreams--and nightmares. Completed shortly before her tragic death in 19665, Everything and Nothing recounts her rags-to-riches-to-rags story form her personal point of view. Dandridge recalls her humble beginnings in Depression-era Cleveland, Ohio, her rise to fame and success as the first African American to receive a Best Actress Oscar nomination (for her role in Carmen Jones), the disappointments and pain of her childhood and family life, and her downward spiral into alcoholism and financial troubles, Everything and Nothing is a mesmerizing and harrowing journey through the life and times of one of Hollywood's most unforgettable stars. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Only scratches the surface...
After reading other works on Dorothy Dandrige I thought this purported autobiograph left a few things to be desired. The book reveals personal details of her life but downplays certain players in her life. For example, the lesbian relationship between her mother and "friend" Auntee was passed off as being no more than a casual friendship. I understand DD reasons for not revealing things about her mother considering she was still alive at the time the book was published. She only mention a few details about her fame with the movie CARMEN.

The book is written well but only takes a cursory view of her life and success. It seems to accentuates the most tragic details of her life and downplays her contribution to others. It's a good book, but please read Donald Bogle's book if you want a more thorough revelation of her life.

A must have
From the pages I got to read it is a book I will definitly buy. It was very good and I recommend it highly.

an eyeopener!!! a bit depressing...
i recently completed reading this book i found dorothy's own story a completely modern and intelligent account to be in accord with many of the same ugly problems that face us today...racism and sexism...how devastating it was for her to be so talented and beautiful yet...she was treated like ... because of her color and men only wanted to treat her like a prostitute because to them yes she was very beautiful and famous...but she could not be treated with dignity and respect because she was a black woman...she found this overwhelmingly frustrating that these powerful, handsome men did not want the human dorothy dandridge with feelings and intelligence...they just wanted to be seen with her or just to try her out sexually then put her back right away in the dump somewhere...dorothy tried and she stated in her book that many times she thought things would be different for her...she deserved to be loved..yet... no fault of her own she lived a life without love from day one...her mom just wanted to make money off of the child dorothy and her sister vivian...her mother let a obviously jealous and abusive stranger have full control over young dorothy and sibling something that dorothy could not ever understand ... her mom would just come along to collect the dough that the children made and go...her father only shows up after absolutely no contact at all to see the successful adult dorothy now in her twenties and a fast rising star...leaving dorothy to wonder would he contact her after all of these years if she was a criminal or doing badly...her first philandering husband was another user...he offered no support to dorothy or their disabled daughter in any kind of way...after several disfunctional relationships her sister does not even bother to contact dorothy...in between a string of user lovers,an abusive gold digger husband no#2, bad investments, aging and a fledging career...topped with crippling racism in that era and in her field of entertainment...dorothy dandridge's lonely heart simply could not take any more...her mind could not find rhyme or reason to anymore letdowns..she was tired of life and did not stick around for the next blow because she was too fragile for anymore heartache...all of this lead up to her untimely death...while lena horne went through similar heartbreaks, racism and letdowns...lena horne was a stronger person than dorothy dandridge and lena refused to let the people and situations created by them destroy her...nevertheless this is a beautiful and bittersweet account of an angel named dorothy dandridge...may we read and learn from this story and pray for dorothy dandridge's soul and thank her for that legendary knockout portrayal as Carmen...showing that the 50's black woman in hollywood could be shown as more than a fat, greasy and homely domestic with bad english

The truth is stranger than fiction
This book captivates you the moment you open it. Dottie's openess and honesty about her life totally humanizes this legend. So many important issues of today are discussed like how racism played a role in her career. The other part is she connects with other women with tales of her desire to be a wife and mother. Riveting.

Full of Dandridge's effusive and self-deprecating humor!
Dandridge's take on her life is very different from the other 2 well-known biographies -- if for no other reason that her book is full of her effusive and self-deprecating humor!

But don't be fooled; Dandridge's life is a very complex one. Basically this is a memoir, but it's so much else. It's a story of love and marriage and motherhood and divorce and lust (and yes, in that order!). There's the joyful laughter of nostalgia mixed with the bitter tears of regret. There's the realization of hard-fought ambitions, there's haughty glamour, there's acute despair. In some ways Dorothy was the queen of self-preservation, yet you could almost call this book the world's longest suicide note. Dorothy truly had everything and nothing and that is bluntly yet gracefully explained in this book.

Dorothy was a star at a time when talent, ambition, beauty, class, and ability was in no way valued in a black woman, just was not asked for by the larger society, much less encouraged, cherished, and held dear. The real tragedy of her life is that she is not remembered by more people. Reading about her has convinced me more than ever that we all need to listen, hear, and heed the story of Dorothy Dandridge. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

One of the best reads this year
I loved this book and could not put it down once I started it. I knew of Jon/Jeff for many years through his films and was surprised to find out that he was gay for pay. But still he remains a complete gay icon known for his "verbal action scenes".
He was honest in this book and revealed all the crap that he pulled and the struggles that he was having trying to get off of drugs. The only downside to this book were of the photos (including the cover) being censored. I came away from the book feeling sad about his life, but it will never stain the image I have of him the first time I saw him on video.

The most depressing book ive ever read
This movie really shows the downside of drugs.....its such a shame that a man as good looking as he was fell so far and could not keep himself clean....this book is so depressing and there is nothing at all uplifting about it......its a great book for someone to read that needs a jolt back to reality and off of drugs......this shows just what its like to be an addict

A private disintegration on the public stage
Just as "Wonder Bread ..." detailed the rapid rise and just as rapid fatal fall of gay porn icon Joey Stefano, so it goes here with H.A. Carson's treatment of Jon Vincent, another gay porn actor who also crossed over into bisexual films. Endowed with the handsomeness that only billboards are made for and a body to match, Vincent used both to wrangle his way to fortune and fame (no pun). Once there, however, according to Carson, Vincent, like so many others in the apparent cut-throat adult film business, obviously found fame, money and envy either unfulling or too much to handle. Either way, heroin became Vincent's comfort, and his business of sex became nothing more than a mechanical, emotionless state of being with the hope for love being so elusive as not even to be dreamable. With the heroin, Vincent went the only way that an addiction goes if not arrested: downward, in all its poverty, isolation, maybe well-intentioned but half-hearted attempts at sobriety and, sometimes mercifully, death. In the end, Vincent lost his battle to heroin, and his story in this book comes across more as one of decline and fall in a public profession and the torment of heroin addiction and less a psyco-biography to explain the reason for Vincent's (and others') self-destruction. Is it the nature of the adult business that directs its performers to drug dependency, or is it an already-present void in the souls of its performers who seek fulfillment in a physically intimate profession? We don't get the answers here, but Carson's book remains an important warning that the demons of a soul in torment will almost always unleash their lethal poison from which few emerge. It is a disturbing but important read, and it might be warning us to pay heed to the caution in the wind.

A tale of depravation and sickness!!
I am not sure just how I managed to wade through this sorry account of the worst of the human experiences. I can't understand just why anyone would chronicle these events, or make any positive comments about such a complete failure of a poor human being.. This person sunk to every kind of perversion and should only be looked at as an example of almost every depraved activity. Save your money! It really soesn't deserve even one star.

Excellent book about a major figure in erotic films
A truly excellent biography.
Jon Vincent was handsome, driven and talented. He was extremely charming and seductive -- a man who could persuade nearly anyone to do nearly anything. He had the talent to succeed in major league baseball, perhaps the looks and talent to succeed in Hollywood, and was phenomenally successful as an actor in gay/bisexual adult films.
Vincent was a thrill junkie: a compulsive seeker of sexual adventure, physical danger, steroids, alcohol, cocaine and finally heroin. Heroin was stronger than he was; it took over his life and finally killed him.
H.A. Carson recounts Vincent's life. The book is a narrative: the judgements expressed are those made by Vincent himself. It is seems lurid in places, but only because certain aspects of Vincent's life were lurid. The book has photos of Vincent in his prime, which will appeal to his fans.
Heroin addiction is a cliche in our culture. Few readers will be surprised at the downward spiral of poverty, prostitution, deception, theft, arrest, futile detoxification efforts, near-fatal drug overdoses, delusion, paranoia, despair, homelessness and eventual death -- although the details are often startling and chilling.
However, there is much in this book that the average reader is not likely to know. I was unaware, for example, that a detoxifying junkie (going cold turkey) can experience 30 or more days of near-absolute insomnia. The book reveals aspects of junkie life that are odd (the Geographical theory of
sobriety), disturbing (the link between pornography, prostitution and drug addiction; the tendency for heroin addiction to spread among friends like a common cold) and very disturbing (the devastation that addicts inflict on those who love them and want to help them).
The book shows how heroin addiction is a day-by-day, night-by-night battle to stay alive. Jon Vincent was victorious in many of his daily battles; but eventually, there was always defeat and readdiction.
The book is a damned good read, a powerful anti-drug message, and also a perfect place to start for anyone curious or concerned about pornography, prostitution, drug addiction or addictive personalities in general. One bad point: it is available as a paperback only, not in hardcover (I have checked). ... Read more

Book Description

"Only Marcia Wallace could write this book because, first, it is autobiographical, and second because only Marcia has the wit, humor and heart to keep you laughing while laying bare all the details of her amazingly rich life.It is impossible to read this book without feeling that Marcia Wallace is a dear and trusted friend.In fact, she is such a hero to me now I want to BE Marcia Wallace, except probably with different clothes."

W. Bruce Cameron, Author of 8 Simple Rules

For Dating my Teenage

Daughter ... Read more

Reviews (17)

It's like she wrote it just for me to read!
At two o'clock in the morning, five hours after starting the book, I still couldn't put it down. I felt like a dear friend was talking right to me. She says things no one else seems to be able to say, and you love her for it.

I laughed out loud again and again! And sometimes I had to put the book down when I was suddenly moved to tears.

Her story is remarkable, but it's impossible not to identify with her. I think it's because Marcia Wallace's honesty is breathtaking, and her words ring true. This is what it's like to be a spiritual being having a very human experience. This is how we REALLY feel when we experience loss and everything else that comes in life. She's the funniest writer around, and the best part it that it's all from the heart so you have to recognize yourself in her words.

It will inspire you and change your perspective on your life and your loved ones. I think everyone would feel like she wrote this book just for them. I've found myself telling everybody I see that THIS is the book they need to read RIGHT NOW!

TERRIFIC! 5 STARS! LAUGH AND CRY OUT LOUD ENTERTAINMENT
From start to finish Marcia Wallace has your heart in the palm of her hand. I am not an easy audience and I was hooked from the Title to the ending. Her Christmas letters sprinkled through the book are the spine of the book, they chronicle her life. She takes us on a rollicking and hysterical journey through a rough childhood, her battle of the bulge, her breakdown, the meeting and marrying her "one true love", Denny. She is brutally and hysterically honest about everything!!! I wonder if I would be so brave...she lets it all hang out. This includes the pain in her childhood to the devistating loss of her "one true love" Denny to pancreatic cancer, her house burning down and the tales of her wonderful, bright, funny, son, Mikey growing up before her eyes, the perverbial apple does not fall far from the tree.
She openly shares her own personal battles with so many actual stories that many of us only fantasize about and some we couldn't even dream up. The book is so rich with life, laughter, heartbreak and joy.

Wow, I stayed up until 3:30 AM reading this book to the wonderfully, hopeful, finish. Marcia's story and the way she writes really entertains you, touches you, makes you laugh and cry out loud, often at the same time, and finally her tenacity, hope and sheer guts bring her to this wonderful point in her life, her brilliantly written, thoroughly entertaining autobiography. I say RUN don't walk to buy this book and ....don't look back we're not going that way.

Growing Up in the 1950's
The authors story of growing up in Creston, Iowa in the 1950's and early 60's alone is worth the price of this book. Her story is a stinging indictment of parenting, religion, employers, doctors, etc. as they existed and were accepted at that time. One gets the impression that Ms. Wallace's experiences were quite normal for that time period. This part of the book is a great argument for anyone who doesen't think some things (a lot of things) have gotten better over the last forty or fifty years.

It's honest, hysterical, touching and delightful!
I thought that I knew Marcia - from college, her work on the Newhart show and with the Simpsons. But this book clearly shows us a side of Marcia that has endured some of the greatest tragedies in life. But in her quest for life, she once again comes out on top. Her honest approach to life, fantastic sense of humor and her ability to embrace life, no matter what obstacles stand in her way, show us a woman that is to be admired and respected for her upbeat lease on life.
Thanks for writing it, Marcia! This book is definitely a must read!

I laughed, I cried, I ate like a pig!
Marcia Wallace's book is a magnificent telling of a life that has had a multitude of grief thrown it's way and survived. Not only survived, but survived intact and better for the experiences. If you read the book, you will be better for having read it. Touching, hilarious and real. This book neither sugarcoats or side steps anything painful or uncomfortable. Storytelling is an artform and Ms. Wallace is an artist. Her Midwestern roots bring her both strength in the storytelling department and strength in the survival department. Her ability to bring you along on this amazing journey is undoubtably one of her strengths as a person.
She makes you FEEL everything. It is pure Marcia. She admits that it is scattered and skips around topic-wise, but that makes it all the more endearing. Grab some snacks, hunker down and read this book. Don't forget the tissues. You'll be wiping away tears from both laughing and crying. ... Read more

Book Description

Irish actress Harriet Smithson, inspiration for Hector Berlioz'sSymphonie Fantastique, is also the muse for this mesmerizing novel.

Christine Balint reimagines the bittersweet life of Harriet Smithson, the tragedienne who brought Shakespeare to the French. Born in County Clare, Ireland, in 1800, Harriet is left in the care of the elderly priest Father Barrett, and is brought up on Lamb's Shakespeare, lime-sherbet sweets, and prayer. A child of traveling players, her ultimate inheritance is Covent Garden, London, the green room, and the theater's rough magic.

With the arrival of Charles Kemble's English Theatre troupe in Paris in 1827, the Odéon Theatre is awash with the drama and music of Shakespeare. Harriet is Ophelia. The French Romantics swoon, traffic stops, and the high-society women plait straw in their hair in honor of her mad Ophelia. The fiery composer Hector Berlioz falls in love.

In Ophelia's Fan, Balint re-creates the texture and breadth of the nineteenth century and brings alive Harriet Smithson—the actress and the woman, her roles and her loves. ... Read more

Book Description

Judiologist Scott Schechter presents an account of every day of the singer and actress's life, from her earliest show-business performances at the age of two to her misunderstood final years. The book includes excerpts from personal letters, transcripts o ... Read more

Reviews (23)

Wonderful!!
Absolutely fascinating.

Despite what the Library Journal may say (and frankly how you rely on a review by anyone who recommends Sheridan Morley's appallingly incompetent effort is beyond me), this is a tremendously detailed and revealing look at the life of one of America's few genuine legends.

As someone who has read virtually all the books about Miss Garland I would certainly rank this book in the top three. Highly recommended to anyone who has an interest in Judy Garland, Hollywood or what the highs and lows of stardom can really be like.

Wow! What a great Book!
I loved this book. I have been a Garland fan all of my life. I have read almost everything written about her. Reading this book I found out things I didn't know. It's so interesting to follow Judy's path f