Book Description

The one and only New York Times bestselling autobiography by Lucille Ball...

"Filled with light and laughter." (New York Times Book Review)

"Lucy fans will find this book fascinating." (Detroit News)

"A winner." (New York Newsday)

"Intensely moving."(San Francisco Chronicle)

... Read more

Reviews (74)

Lucy lives forever!
I loved this book! Ever since I saw my first episode of I Love Lucy, I've been fascinated with Lucille Ball. I just had to know more about her. I found "Love, Lucy" in a store one day and I begged my mom to buy it for me. Well, she did, and I loved every minute of reading it. It's like she's talking one-on-one with you in a way. In "Love, Lucy", Lucy talks about her marriages, her children, her family, and her work. Although alot of details are left out (mainly because she didn't want to hurt anyone's feelings), the descriptions of the events in her life are amazing. My mother couldn't pry me away from reading this book with a crowbar, and she still can't whenever I re-read it. I was also overcome with emotion at some points in reading this wonderful memoir. The way she talked about her love for Desi Arnaz was so touching. I've never heard anything like it before. I started to sob a little when Lucy described the day she filed for divorce from Desi, and I'm not a big crier. It was so sad that everything happened the way it did, and that they couldn't work things out. I'm glad that she found happiness in her second marriage, though. I was also stunned when I learned that Lucy had hidden this for over thirty years until her children found it in with some old files about four years ago. Imagine writing something like this that you know everyone in the world is dying to read and then putting it away! Well, in a way I respect Lucy's decision, because I wouldn't want to hurt the feelings of any loved ones that were still alive that I had talked about. And sometime soon I am going to get a copy of "A Book", by Desi Arnaz, because after all there are two sides to every story. Before I go, I want to thank Lucy's children, Lucie Arnaz and Desi Arnaz Jr., for letting their mother's millions of fans take a peek inside of her private world. The book could have been easily just tucked back into the files and forgotten about. Taking it out and publishing it was great idea, and I know that no matter what, I'll always love Lucy.

Very moving.......Lucy lives on forever
WOW! I have never read such a good book. I own this book, and I read almost everyday. It is one of the most moving books I have ever read. Lucy's voice comes through loud and clear; you feel as though she were talking to you personally. It is a facinating account of a legend's restless childhood in Celeron, New York, her job modeling at Hattie Carnegie's, her move to Hollywood to make her dreams come true,her tempestuous but extremely passionate marraige to Desi Arnaz, her incredible I Love Lucy success, the crumble of her marraige and their Desilu empire, and her life after I Love Lucy and after Desi. This book is so intense, I actually cried. It was obvious that even after she and Desi divorced and she married Gary Morton, he was still her one true love and they still loved eachother very much. This is the one and only memoir Lucille Ball left for her adoring fans, so if you ever get the chance to read this book, take it! It's amazing how vividly Lucy recalls her whole life up to 1964. I am so glad this book was finally found in 1996. Here is Lucy's story, the REAL story, in her own words.

Why "Love Lucy"?
While reading Love, Lucy, I began to understand where Lucille Ball had come from and what she had done. This book gives us insight into the mind of a comedy legend. Beginning in Jamestown, New York, the young Lucille Ball enjoyed her life and making people laugh. She was moved around a lot as her mother was widowed at a very young age and needed some space from the world in order to find out who she was. Young Lucille lived with grandparents or aunts and uncles in her early years and always knew that she wanted to make people happy and she wanted to be noticed. The death of her father, and of her grandmother reinforced her drive to bring joys to others and end the sadness that had engulfed her life during that time. She moved to New York City as an older teenager and gained recognition while modeling for small dress shops in the city, and was in many runway shows. It was then that she was noticed by a photographer and named "Model of the Month." Soon after, she was recognized by a producer at RKO studios and offered a role as a showgirl. At RKO studios she met her first real mentor, Lela Rogers, the mother of the famous Ginger Rogers. Lela ran a small acting class / studio and immediately saw Lucille's potential. She knew there was something special inside of her and helped young Lucille to find it herself. It was then that she began receiving larger roles in more prominent films. After a "run-in" with a perverted producer,(who wanted to leave his wife and marry her) Lucille, now in her mid-twenties, was only cast in "B" films as the wife of the producer was extremely upset. She made sure that Lucille would never cross the path of her husband again as he was the producer of "A" films. This turned out to be a good thing because she was cast as either second leading lady or the lead. She made many public appearances. One happened to be in New York City at Broadway to see a theater production of a movie she would possibly be starring in. She met Desi Arnez and they were both smitten; they eloped a year or so later. With the birth of their first child, Lucie, the couple was more sure than ever that they wanted to be co-starring in a show together. The I Love Lucy show was born and turned out to be a huge success. During the end of the first season, Lucy gave birth to another child, a son, Desi Jr. After his birth the marriage began to fall apart and the couple divorced. Custody of the children consisted of Lucille having the kids for the school year, and Desi having them during the summer. Eventually Lucille remarried and established a somewhat normal lifestyle.

Lucille Ball's relationship with her work was very unique as she wouldn't do a scene if she didn't believe it. She needed to feel the reality behind it if she wanted the audience to believe it as well. She was very passionate about her work and willing to try anything, even in her early years. "No Sir, I haven't done anything on Broadway, but I'd sure like to try." she would say to any producer who would listen. She tried to please everyone but realized that she couldn't be who everyone wanted her to be. She stayed true to herself and did what was best for her and her family.

Lucille Ball is bubbly and vivacious in this autobiography. Her liveliness seems to be contagious to everyone she meets and she brings joy to all who came in contact with her, and those who still come in contact with her work. Although I have a high opinion of Lucille herself, I felt that the book was somewhat lacking. Most parts were full of realism and passion for her work; some parts just didn't flow with the rest of the novel. She seemed to not have much to say in certain chapters as she kind of rambled on a bit about the same things over and over again such as her pay and her relationship with RKO studios.


Overall, this book was a great read and was very informative, but some things could have been edited out as they were not worth the time of the reader.

A "Politically Correct" Autobiography
I read Lucille Ball's autobiography "Love, Lucy" and was impressed by the wealth of detail. It was so wonderful to get to finally see how Lucille Ball looked at life. And it was also inspiring to see the amount of work that Ball had to put in to attain super-stardom.

But, as with many autobiographies, you need to take this work with a grain of salt. Ball obviously wasn't interested in making herself (or anyone else, for that matter,) look bad. She deliberately sidesteps issues regarding husband Desi Arnaz's marital fidelty, and she also downplays her own jealous and controlling nature.

So if you want to read a very "politically correct" version of Lucy's life, I suggest you read this autobiography. But if you want to read the hard facts, I suggest you look elsewhere.

Hear Lucille Ball in her OWN Words!!!
This book is too hard to put down! It is written by one of the greatest movie stars there is: Luciile Ball herself. With the help of Betty Hannah Hopfmen, Lucille is able to tell us, in her eyes, about her life. I have to go along with the reviewer that said it is absolutly thrilling to go along with Lucy. And it is. It is nice to have such an accurate book on her life. She goes along and not only tells you her life, but also gives you her thoughts and what she got out of her life. She also goes along with Desi; telling you a little about his life before, during their marriage and then after they separaed. She covers her life from as far back as to her birth till 1964 when she finished writting the book (Lucie Arnaz wrote the Forword and gives you information from 1964 till Lucille Ball's death in 1989). This book is great and I encourage you greatly to get this book so that YOU can have the thrill of felling like you can get to know Lucy personally. Get yours, read it, and enjoy!! ... Read more

Book Description

Millions of fans love Lucy so much, they can't get anough of her classic television antics.This official book, compiled by the president of the WE LOVE LUCY fan club, contains a dozen postcards of Lucy Ricardo's most memorable hijinks from the beloved '50s sitcom-complete with original air dates, star trivia, and more. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

A MUST HAVE...
this book is a must have for every LUCY-DESI fan all over the world. it contains beautiful pictures and a lot of information about each episode. it is part of my collection and I see myself coming back to it everytime to look something up.is one of the most complete books I have ever encountered.

RICKY RICARDO CAN CONGA MY DRUM ANYTIME.
" I LOVE LUCY " WAS 1 OF THE BEST TV SHOWS IN THE 1950'S AND IS THE BEST SHOW EVER." I LOVE LUCY" CLASSIC MOMENTS BOOK IS A MUST FOR ANY "I LOVE LUCY" FAN. IT SHOWS YOU THE CLASSIC MOMENTS IN WHAT THE BEST TV SHOW THAT WAS EVER MADE.LUCILLE BALL AND DESI ARNAZ MADE WHAT THE SHOW WAS,ALSO VIVIAN VANCE AND WILLIAM FRAWLEY WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED AS FRED AND ETHEL MERTZ AT 323 E.68TH ST. I FINSHED THIS BOOK AND I TRULY ENJOYED IT.

I Love, I Love Lucy!
This is a great book for behind the scenes pictures of the cast and the stage they worked on. I have owned this book for about a year, and come back to look at it all the time. Lucille Ball is my favorite actress, and I just love her to pieces! This book contains photos of their set and everyday life. It also conatains some stories of their lives, so if you are a Lucy fan like me, don't miss this book!

My favorite part....
Tom Watson has surely created a fantastic book that will help the memory of one of the most successful tv sitcoms ever carry on. Seeing and reading all the unknown tidbits on some of my favorite epsidoes of I Love Lucy is just grand! Every I Love Lucy fan should own this book. What a great way to make sure the memory of I Love Lucy and a wonderful actress, Lucille Ball, stay with us as years go by! Take a ride through many all too funny faces of Lucy!

I Remember That Scene...
Proof that "I Love Lucy" will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved her best, her fans. President of 'Lucyfan Enterprises' and the 'We Love Lucy Fan Club', Tom Watson creates a beautiful book of classic moment photographs, "did you know..." tidbits and those little behind the scenes production disasters that you didn't know about until now. Trivia facts, memorable quotes, inspirations for the episodes and characters we loved best make this book one to own and treasure for years to come. A must have! ... Read more

Book Description

The true, behind-the-scenes story of television's happiest couple, andHollywood's most tumultuous marriage.

Fifty years ago the magical union of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz enthralled American audiences who couldn't got enough of the fiery redhead or her sexy Cuban husband. But off camera the situation couldn't have been less comic, with backstage battles, oversized egos, drinking, philandering, and the demands of phenomenal success undermining what was once a storybook romance.

With exclusive access to family members (including daughter Lucie Arnaz) and rare photographs, Desilu is the first candid, inside account of a celebrated, complex, passionate, but ultimately tragic relationship -- as well as a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at Desilu Studios, the Golden Age of Television's most powerful production empire.

Reviews (24)

Intensely moving!
This ine of the best Lucy-Desi books ever written. The only book I enjoyed as much as I enjoyed this one was Lucy's own autobiography, although I have to admit this gives a lot more detail. This one of the few books written about the team that is actually accurate and correct. The only people who know what happened better are Lucy and Desi themselves. At the end of this book, I cried for hours. I cried my eyes out. It's so obvious that Lucy and Desi loved eachother to their dying days. This book will make you laugh and cry. Words cannot describe how wonderful this book is. It is so incredibly moving. It's a facinating book. I never wanted it to end. I just couldn't put it down. If you love Lucy and Desi, this is THE book to read. Desilu lets you take a peek into the minds of TV's favorite couple, the making of the world's most loved and successful TV show, and Lucy and Desi's life before and after the show and eachother. You may think you know Lucy and Desi, but you don't really know them until you read this book. Only Lucy herself gave a more accurate account of what happened, but this book gives more detail. All in all, this book is GREAT. You have to read it if you are a true Lucy and/or Desi fan.

Desi Arnaz & Lucille Ball....The Best Story Yet !
Candid account of televisions best known duo during TV's begining. A must read for any Lucy and Desi fan. Television's most beloved red head and the love her and Desi had for each other to the very end. A lot of input from those that knew them best and how Lucy a dedicated perfectionist in whatever she did to her ski accident in which she never fully recoverd to Desi's bout with alchole & cancer that would claim his life. Her marriage to producer Gary Morton and Desi Jr's bout with drugs. This book is by far the best that's been written on this great team from accounts of Studio people at Desilu Productions to people that were closet to them. Loaded with never before seen photo's including tremendous input from daughter Lucie Arnaz. Thanks for memories, Lucy and Desi! Larry Dodson

THIS IS IT--'FILMED IN HOLLYWOOD BY DESILU'!
This is the ultimate book for those who love not only Lucy but the fabled studio that did so much interesting TV. It's all here--I Love Lucy, the Specials, the Lucy Show, Star Trek, Mission Impossible, Mannix... full and never dull rundowns on the lives of Lucy and Desi and how their lives impacted television and the hundreds that worked for them. Not a love letter to either of them but not a Desilu Dearest either. This is the one you must have--this and "The Lucy Book" are essential.

This Is Really How It Was!
I was transfixed by reading the comprehensive and well documented non fiction book DESILU written by acclaimed entertainment journalist Tom Gilbert and Coyne Sanders. These authors did their extensive research and transposed their factual material into an engrossing, extremely well written and fascinating account of how one of the entertainment industry's most famous acting, creative and producing teams- Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz- created the most beloved sitcom in history I LOVE LUCY as well as a television mega-empire in the early days of the industry (long before AMERICAN IDOL and SURVIVOR became the current rage!). The book gives a detailed inside look into the dynamics of their personalities, joys and conflicts. I would recommend DESILU without hesitation to anyone interested in a) the life and career of Lucille Ball b)the life and career of Desi Arnaz c)the early days of television d)the company that created some of the most beloved televsion shows in its time and of all times. An engrossing read!

Lucy, I'm home...
This is a really nice book on the real inside story about America's favorite sitcom couple, Lucy and Desi Arnez. The authors have taken great care to present these two television icons with dignity and respect. In doing so, much of the glitz of these stars is torn away, showing two determined and driven people grasping to hold on to their marriage while making millions laugh every week on their tv show. This book takes you through the careers of Lucy and Desi and explains the complex relationship they had. Both were highly motivated to be successful and this strain on the their personal lives proved to be fatal. A great deal of background material is covered as to the "I Love Lucy" show's inception, the chemistry between all the characters such as Vivian Vance and William Frawley, plus the various directors and producers who prepared the show. Unknown to many, it was Desi who served as the show's guiding creative talent and business executive in managing the show and other spinoffs. At the end of the book, you feel that you have gotten to know these two people a lot better. As the book ends, there is a certain sadness that overtakes the reader. It leaves you thinking how ironic that they brought so much happiness to so many while they themselves found it so elusive. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Those expecting a vicious Hollywood tell-all from Stefan Kanfer’s Ball of Fire: The Tumultuous Life and Comic Art of Lucille Ball will be disappointed. Kanfer, whose past work includes a biography of Groucho Marx and a history of the animation industry, comes to his famous red-headed subject with admiration, and readers will be drawn by his exuberance for early film and television history.

Kanfer opens with a brief recounting of Ball's tragic childhood (her father died of typhoid when she was 3 years old) and her early career as an unintentionally starving model in New York City. The significant portion of the book begins, however, when Ball gets her first offer for a stint of film work in California and finds herself launched on a moderately successful film career. Here Kanfer provides details of the inner workings of United Artists, Columbia, and RKO as Ball does battle with Ginger Rogers, Kathryn Hepburn, and a host of other young actresses struggling for screen time. But, as Kanfer notes, it was in television that Ball made her great mark, starring with her husband Desi Arnaz. I Love Lucy debuted in 1951, and readers will delight in Kanfer’s behind-the-scenes details of the show’s production. The first situation comedy to be filmed before a live audience, Lucy offered countless challenge--technical, professional, and personal—for the volatile couple.

Kanfer argues that Ball is one of the few truly enduring television personalities to emerge from the early years of television. His book, entertaining as it is educational, does much to secure her legacy. --Patrick O’Kelley ... Read more

Reviews (16)

Did Kanfer Ever Watch Any Interviews with Lucy?
Kanfer gets Lucille Ball's place in the history of comedy right, that alone gets him three stars. The rest of the book reads like an assignment from his editor. Most of the information is taken from previously published books. Most importantly, Kanfer must have missed Lucy's many TV interviews. I remember late in life, Lucy turned to Johnnny Carson on the Tonight Show and asked why
he did not seem to like her all that much. It was unclear whether
she meant personally or her work. I suspect it was the later. JC
quickly changes the subject, but it was a revealing moment about Carson's possible preferance for male comics. Did Kanfer bother to visit the Museum of Radio and TV? There's a tape of Ball giving a class in comedy at the museum, which is worth watching over and over.

Maybe after all the books and interviews, there is not much new to say about Lucy. But, she remains one of the most popular figure in the history of show business. Too bad, Kemfer did not take this assignment more seriously.

Behind the Scenes Where No One Loved Lucy
Ball of Fire concentrates on the I Love Lucy show, how it came about (and almost didn't get off the ground), behind the scenes tidbits, its effect on America. Kanfer doesn't stint on the rest of Lucy's life, both before and after the Show, but I Love Lucy really is the star of this book.

Never having read a biography of Lucille Ball, this was all news to me, and I enjoyed discovering that Vivian Vance loathed William Frawley, and that Ball was such a stickler and control freak. Kanfer's style is easy and very readable, and there are plenty of photos to round things out, including an unexpected one of a young topless Lucille Ball.

If you are in the mood for an entertaining and, let's face it, unimportant, book, this one is worth the money.

Lessons on How to Learn From Each Other
Do wealth and distinction necessarily produce happiness?

This book although generally accentuates the negative side of Lucille and Desi's relationship and their struggles with Desilu, can be considered a well-written and informative collection of biographical information.

Why did she marry him?

Apparently Lucille, fascinated by the 22-year-old good-looking drum player, singer and bandleader with a cute Cuban accent, overlooked the Latino macho thing; or worse yet; she did not know.

In the Hispanic American cultures, especially during the 50s and 60s and 70s total submission in marriage was expected from the female side. It was considered a macho thing to lie, cheat on your wife, drink and stay late on weekends while expecting her to be submissive and passive.

The day he asked for a divorce Lucy angrily called him: a bum, a drunk, a cheat, a spick, and a wetback, showing there was more hate than "I love Lucy" attitude in those days.

Desiderio Arnaz although charming at times, and incredibly clever for show business management was evidently not the kind of man suitable for a committed relationship. Even though financially successful, they were not pleased with each other; unhappiness that was reflected in their careers resulting in the eventual failure of their joint venture.

Beyond and above human shortcomings and appearances we know we all Love Lucy, and we love Desi as well. All in all this biography is well organized, absorbing, and a good read.

What a pity.
My esteem for Lucille Ball fell while reading this book. And I don't think it's her fault, I think it was Kanfer's. He doesn't miss a chance to give you the overall impression that she was not in charge of her own life. Anybody who ever saw Lucy knows that she was a woman who had her own demons, but it takes a biographer like Kanfer to show just how much the terrible past reached out its claws and choked her life free of pleasure and fun. To the outside, she gave a vivid impression of a daffy screwball, but to those who attempted to get close to her, she couldn't help revealing the tightly wound, neurotic worrywart. Her relationship with Ginger Rogers was just about the only one she found a jot of comfort in, and Kanfer makes it seem as if she reached out to Ginger as a way to complete her education. All her life she was made to feel inferior to other people. Even marrying an immigrant did nothing for her self-esteem, for he wound up cheating on her. What did Lucille Ball do to deserve such a constricted, joyless life or such an inept and colorless biographer? What a pity.

Good and straightforward
This was the first and so far only biography I read of Lucille Ball; I found it to be good. It covers her life from childhood to death and discusses everything that seems important: her years starting out in modeling and show business in New York, moving to Los Angeles, meeting Desi, starting the show that became so famous, Desilu studios, the breakup with Desi, her later years. I would've liked to read more about her kids and her relationship with them, but it's her biography, not theirs, and maybe that kind of information isn't forthcoming to a biographer. I would've liked more photos, too. But I shut the book feeling that I've gotten a good solid basis for my Lucille Ball education. This seems like a good book from which to go on to others. ... Read more

Book Description

Lucille: The Life of Lucille Ball is an entertaining, informative, scholarly, and fascinating biography of one of the most revered actresses in television history. Moving beyond the typical celebrity bio, author Kathleen Brady separates the actress from Lucy Ricardo, the antic, enduring character she created on I Love Lucy.

Brady is the only biographer to have spent extensive time in Jamestown, New York, Lucille Ball's hometown, where she interviewed Ball's childhood friends. Other interviews for the book included family, employees, Bob Hope, Katharine Hepburn, Ginger Rogers, Milton Berle, Maureen O'Hara, Maxine Andrews of the Andrews Sisters, and the late chairman of CBS Bill Paley. Kathleen Brady's definitive biography presents a human Lucille Ball the fans have never known: the would-be showgirl in New York, fired almost as soon as she was hired because she was too flat-chested and mousy; her great love for Desi Arnaz, their tempestuous marriage, the day she thought she had killed him with a hammer, and the incident that ended their marriage; Lucille as head of Desilu Studios, overriding the advice of her most trusted executives and agreeing to green light the pilots of Star Trek and Mission Impossible; and her run-in with the House on Un-American Activities Committee and fears of being black-listed.

Brady reveals that Lucille Ball's life was a roller coaster, going from disaster to victory and triumph to tragedy. As a young woman, Ball believed that she had to work had to make people like and appreciate her. As a star, she felt she had to work hard to maintain her popularity, and was also conscious that what her fans wanted from her was not herself, but Lucy Ricardo.

Of the first edition of this book, published by Hyperion in 1994, critic Molly Haskell wrote: "It's a beautiful portrait of someone with enormous talent as an entertainer and heartbreaking fragility as a woman. In giving Lucille Ball the serious appraisal she deserves, Kathleen Brady has really gotten behind the scenes and the cameras to provide an invaluable chronicle of several areas and eras of show business."

New to this edition of Lucille is an introductory essay focusing on the place of the character of Lucy Ricardo in the history of comedy, going back to the traditions of the Italian commedia dell'arte and forward to the end of the 20th century. In this essay, Lucille Ball is compared to other key female figures in comedy like Mabel Normand, Mae West, Frannie Brice, Gilda Radner, and Fran Drescher. As the author writes, "Lucille Ball was a revolutionary figure because Lucy Ricardo was the first female character to combine the knock-about physical comedy of vaudeville and music halls (and 15th century carnivals) while being beautiful, feminine, and sweetly appealing." This edition also includes many new photographs from various sources. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Best Bio (and I've read them all)
There are some minor factual errors with regard to some of the TV series indicating that the author--an obvious admirer--was not a fan per se. This actually helps in terms of objectivity. The book is unflinching but warm, and is the sole book to really go in depth about Lucille's childhood and teen/young adult years. "Ball of Fire" and many others are shockingly un-new in their stoties and historical references. No one can really know "Lucille" after the fact but this book, and "Desilu" come as close as you canget.

My favorite book about my favorite commedienne
When I was ten and heard that Lucy and Desi were divorcing, I was devastated. No one in my little village had ever divorced, and I did not know anyone who knew anyone who had. So, Lucy and Ricky, who were interchangeable in my mind with Lucy and Desi, were the first people I "knew" who took that drastic step. I couldn't figure out how they could be so happy on TV and still want to split.

A few years later, when Lucy returned to television, along with Ethel, rechristened as Vivian, I kept longing for DesiRicky to show up. Of course he didn't. Later, I saw some of her early movies and became one of the three people in the US who loved her on the screen as Mame. Even though I appreciated her skill and talent, for me, she was always Lucy Riccardo. Somewhere along the line, though, I realized that Lucille Ball was more complex than her TV counterpart.

Of the half-dozen books I've read about Lucy, which include the newly-released "Ball of Fire", a couple of the books about the series, and Vance's biography, Kathleen Brady's is my favorite. She comes closest to cracking the code, finding what drove Lucille Ball to the top of her profession.

Brady treats her subject tenderly, but does whitewash the harder side of her character. Rather, she tries to bring the apparently incompatible parts of her personality together into one whole, very understandable person. As much as is possible, she succeeds.

Where she is sure of details, she gives them. Where she is not, she offers alternate possibilities, for example, the unknown cause of Ball's paralysis that sent her home from NY and to bed for months or, on the more humorous side, exactly what happened the night that Tallulah Bankhead decided to disrobe during a production meeting of the LucyDesi Comedy Hour.

Well-researched and well-written, this is mandatory reading for any die-hard Lucy fan and an excellent choice for anyone who intends reading only one book about America's most famous comedienne.

Loving Lucy, but not the book...
The Lucille Ball in Kathleen Brady's book, "Lucille: The Life of Lucille Ball" is a study of contradictions. Partly an homage to a star she clearly adores, partly an expose on Lucy's dark side, this book paints an incomplete and unsatisfying picture of America's premiere television comedianne.

The Lucy in this book comes across both as a scrappy fighter early in her career, and a hardened soul at the end of it, which may very well be true, or not. It was difficult to discover the viewpoint of Lucy that the author was trying to take. At times, it was clearly injected with personal opinions and commentaries not warranted in the biography of someone else's life, both glowing and scandalous. And whereas the majority of the book takes up the years of Desilu's powerhold on the television industry, from I Love Lucy to Star Trek, it shortchanges both her early career and later career, almost as insignificant bookends to her highest pinnacle in the 1950's. Certainly, Lucy had a full, complete life, only some of which is shown here.

However, there were some parts I did enjoy. Lucy's less-than-impressive movie career which eventually gave birth to her TV persona was interesting, as you root for her to make the transition earlier. Her undying devotion to Desi in the early years, despite mutual fits of jealousy and rage, made for a deepening look at their marriage. And the occasional parts that show her softer, kinder side were warm to read.

Which leads to this thought. Clearly Lucy is loved country wide; were we ready to learn some negative things about the woman we cherished? Certainly not unknown, nor surprising to anyone who's read other things. The issue perhaps comes in balancing all viewpoints to present a clearer one, rather than being all over the board haphazardly.

As for Lucie and Desi Arnaz, Jr.'s objections to the book were clear to me as I read through to the end. Kathleen Brady seemed to have a personal vendetta against these two, as she paints them very unfavorably as spoiled Hollywood rich kids. Nary a kind word was said about these two, which leads me to think they offered no assistance in creating this book, so a price was paid for their silence.

In the end, I did not feel closer to Lucy than I had before reading this. I may suggest grabbing a bowl of popcorn, putting up your feet, and watching some classic episodes of I Love Lucy, to remember Lucy the way she wanted us to remember her, with a smile and a laugh.

Watch Out
watch out for false starements in this book. many good pics except for the one ... that doesn't even look like lucy. so beware if you love lucy watch what you believe--Steph

The Best Book i read
This book was the best, becouse of many things, she was not only in the T.V show I LOVE LUCY and not only in movies, but she was a great landy that helped and cared for many people around the world. So i am telling you to read this book. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (22)

A must have for Lucy fans!
This book is an absolute must have for fans of Lucille Ball and her sitcoms. A lot of books have been written about her amazing life, but what about her remarkable career on televison for 5 decades? Finally, someone has decided to put on paper the one thing that made Lucy who she was: her work. Lucy thrived on work, and it shows in the outcome. Her work is what she is mostly remembered by, although some ignorant people choose to remember her by her personal life. This book chronicles all of Lucy's shows, from her first and most infamous show, I Love Lucy, in 1951, to her final show in 1986, Life With Lucy, plus all of her guest appearences on other TV, talk, game, and variety shows. The life Lucille Ball led was remarkable, but the legacy she left behind in her work is even more phenomenal. This book will let you look at that legacy and see what made Lucy the hilarious comideinne that she was.It also includes quotes form Lucy herself, her co-workers, her family and friends, and even some of her fans. This is a must for any one loves Lucille Ball and her work as much as I do!

A MUST for anyone who Loves Lucy.
If you love Lucy, like Lucy, or just admire Lucy. You must get this book. It tells all about her career on television. The great tidbits of information on all of the shows is incredible. Information that could only be told by people on the sets. It's amazing that the author Geoffrey Mark Fidelman could get all of this information from so many people behind the scenes. It is all put down in an easy to read format. You read each episode and follow along in your mind, remembering when you first saw the show. You can actually feel the development of the show, as well as the people involved, as you cruise from episode to episode. There is only three things left to say. GET THIS BOOK.

Exhaustive Reference
Detailed analyses of every episode of Lucille Ball's four sitcoms, plus an examination of every television appearance she ever made from 1947 through her death. Snippets of interviews give a fascinating glimpse into a lost era of television.

My only complaint is that author displays a creepy and disgustingly sexual interest in Miss Ball. She is lucious, voluptuous, gorgeous, stunning, beautiful, feminine, entrancing, enticing, etc., etc., etc. ad nauseam. Surely most of us think of "I Love Lucy" and "The Lucy Show" as comedies, not pornography, and we have no interest in being told the details of the author's obsession.

Whew...
What a worker she was. Great info. Nice, easy to read. Must have for Lucy fans.

Excellent Lucy book!
If you want a great Lucy reference book, this book is the greatest! The only problem I have is the author is a bit judgemental in his opinions. Other than that, the book is great! ... Read more

Reviews (31)

It's a Roll of the Dice with Lucy and Lee
Lee Tannen provides a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the private life of Lucille Ball. As he and Lucy spend many an afternoon playing backgammon, many interesting details of her life surface that have not shown up in any other biographies or memoirs of Ms. Ball. Nevertheless, there is something very uneven about Mr. Tannen's book. He never seems to get past the fact he is sitting with Lucille Ball, Queen of Comedy and Television Superstar. The friendship almost seems contrived at times, with him in complete awe of Lucy. Can a true friendship exist when one person cannot get past their childlike fascination with Lucy Ricardo? There is also the extremely annoying habit of comparing nearly every incident he and Ms. Ball experience to an episode of "I Love Lucy". It is mildly (and that word is used loosely) entertaining the first two times, but quickly grates on your nerves and warrants a bit of text skimming to avoid the irritating bits. True Lucy fans will no doubt devour this book as it does provide something not seen in many other Lucy-bio's, with the exception of Jim Brochu's 'Lucy in the Afternoon'. Read with caution, however, as the experience may leave you somewhat frustrated, with an overwhelming desire to learn how to play backgammon.

Charming memoir of beloved star
"I Loved Lucy" is the story of the friendship between Lucille Ball and Lee Tannen, a distant relative of Lucy's second husband. The book is packed with charming stories that will make you both laugh and cry. Lee was priveleged to be with Lucy at some of her highest moments, like receiving the Kennedy Center Honors, as well as some of her lowest, such as the debacle of "Life With Lucy", her failed last sitcom. Lee's love for Lucy, both the person and the image, are obvious in every page, but he does not gloss over Lucy's sometimes strong temperment. Also, interesting is Lee Tannen's depiction of his own relative, Gary Morton, Lucy's husband; Lucy's admiration and respect for the late Vivian Vance; her statements about Desi Arnaz and her children; and Lucy's obsession with backgammon. This is a wonderful book about a wonderful lady...any Lucy fan should read it!

I Loved It
This is a book about a distant relative of Gary Morton's relationship with Lucille Ball during the last ten years of her life. He spent a good amount of time with Lucy, and he shares with us their dinner dates, skiing in Colorado, going to the theatre and, of course, backgammon! I couldn't put the book down. The private life of Lucy after "I Love Lucy" is fascinating, no matter what she said or did - I wanna hear it all. The author tells the story always with love for Lucy and with a good sense of humor of his own. Lucy fans should treasure this.

The true Lucille Ball
This is such a wonderful, heartfelt, extraordinary book. I picked it up at 9:00 in the evening, expecting to read just a chapter or two. I couldn't set it down until I finished it at three in the morning, crying, of course, at the luminous quality of the work that I had just experienced.

Obessed Fan Stalks Fading Television Legend
I couldn't give this book low stars because I read it very quick. Meaning that there was something very fascinating about this read.

However I found this book extremely disturbing on many levels. First of all this author never ever found out what Lucy was really like or even who she really was. All he does is play games with her (at her request) and idolize her.

He compares everything that happens to her in real life to an "I Love Lucy" episode. Which was not only boring to read but very very disturbing.

He gets momentos from her (framed pictures) and sits around watching old "I Love Lucy" reruns while looking at the scripts while Lucy looks on. This is beyond creepy.

The whole thing reminded me of MISERY - except Lucy was the one in control. Sort of MISERY in reverse.

We never really get to know about Lee or his boyfriend. (Except they are rich) We only hear tabloid style mean jabs at Lucy's husband - very unfair because that is the ONLY way he got to know Lucy at all.

It's sad when the only thing good about this book is the letter written by Lucie Arnaz to the author. It is such a sincere and nice letter. Much better than this fawning strange book.

It was nice to see that Lucy had a soft sentimental as well as tough side. As Lucie Anaz put it she was "only human".

Fascinating but gross! ... Read more

Book Description

Half a century after its debut, "I Love Lucy" remains the most popular and influential sitcom phenomenon in TV history. Jess Oppenheimer, "the brains" of "I Love Lucy," gives us an insider's view of this groundbreaking show, generously interspersed with actual recordings of classic Lucy performances--including her famous "Vitameatavegamin" routine. Sounding much like an episode of "Lucy" itself, Oppenheimer weaves a wonderfully entertaining tale of the creation of this landmark show. Lucy aficionados will also delight in his personal accounts of stars such as Desi Arnaz, William Frawley, Vivian Vance, and of course, Lucille Ball. Read by three-time "I Love Lucy" veteran Larry Dobkin, and featuring comedy performances by Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, Gale Gordon, Hans Conried, Bea Benaderet, Frank Nelson, and more! Published in hard cover as "Laughs, Luck...and Lucy: How I Came to Create the Most Popular Sitcom of All Time." ... Read more

Reviews (22)

"Laughs, Luck...and Lucy" is enjoyable from cover to cover!
"Laughs, Luck...and Lucy" is written by Jess Oppenheimer andhis son, Gregg Oppenheimer. Jess Oppenheimer worked formany of the legends of old time radio, including Fanny Brice, Fred Astaire, and Edgar Bergan and Charlie McCarthy. This book tells of Mr. Oppenheimer's career in writing radio scripts, and specifically deals with his writing for Lucille Ball. He wrote first for her when she performed in "My Favorite Husband," and then he tells about his creation of "I Love Lucy," the television series starring Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz. Mr. Oppenheimer not only created the idea for the series, he was also the head writer and producer of the program. Because of his unique inside perspective, Mr. Oppenheimer is able to provide information about Lucy and Desi that no one else could. There are a few things that make this book absolutely unique... Several appendices are included in the book which are very interesting. The first appendix shows an actual script (complete with hand-written changes) that was used during the production of "My Favorite Husband." But, what makes this book fascinating is the fact that a 65-minute audio CD is included, composed of twelve different tracks. The first track is a recording of the presentation of the script for "My Favorite Husband" included in Appendix A of the book. Another real plus for this book is the number of photographs that are included. The photos provide another dimension to this richly-composed book. This book is not only informative, it is very entertaining! Anyone who has ever seen an episode of "I Love Lucy" will want to own this book. It now occupies a prominent place in our family library. "Laughs, Luck...and Lucy" will be read and re-read many times in our home.

Behind the Scenes of the Best TV Show Ever
I'd like to start with a clarification: this book is not a biography of Lucy, it is the creator's (Jess Oppenheimer) memoir. As such, there are many parts of the book that have nothing to do with Lucy, including episodes from Oppenheimer's childhood and young adult life.

However, this is still a GREAT book! It is well-written and full of entertaining annecdotes. "Laughs, Luck, and Lucy" follows Oppenheimer's slow rise to the top in the Hollywood radio industry. He describes Lucille Ball's program, "My Favorite Husband," which became the basis for "I Love Lucy." The book also includes some behind the scenes information about the making of "I Love Lucy."

The included audio cd is fun because it has clips from both "I Love Lucy" and "My Favorite Husband."

If you are only interested in information specifically about Lucille Ball, this might not be the book for you (try her autobiography, "Love, Lucy"). However, if you (like me) are fascinated with everything surrounding "I Love Lucy" and the Hollywood entertainment industry of the 1940s and 1950s, this is a great read!

A gripping read
The best "Lucy" book yet. Aside from providing amazing insight into the "I Love Lucy" show and behind the scenes, this book also makes the reader feel as if he has been right along side Jess Oppenheimer throughout all of his fascinating experiences in San Francisco and early Hollywood. By the time I finished the book, I felt like I was saying good-bye to an old friend. Laugh out loud funny and impossible to put down, the book is brilliantly written and feels like a hilarious conversation with a genious.

Laughs, Luck,...and Lucy
This book is full of insight on the show I Love Lucy; also on the radio show My Favorite Husband which inspired I Love Lucy. Lucille Ball stared in both shows. The book was written by Jess Oppenheimer and his son Gregg Oppenheimer. Jess Oppenheimer was the creator, writter, and producer of I Love Lucy. Sixteen chapters full of information for any Lucy Lover, would like to read about. The book has exclusive photos of the stars and other people behind the show. Each photo has a description about it. The book also comes with a Lucy's Lost Scenes CD. On the CD there are some episodes of I Love Lucy's lost scenes, also some episodes of other I Love Lucy episodes such as "Lucy Does a TV Commercial" There is also some episodes from My Favorite Husband. The book also has scripts from I Love Lucy and My Favorite Husband inside the book. The scripts are original scripts that as you can see when looking at it had lots of changes to make it better. Inside the book talks about the authors. Full of information that you probably wouldn't be able to get anywhere else. This is probably the best book to read it all from the beginning. How and why did I Love Lucy ever existed. Who better to explain it than the man who created it!!

Behind the Scenes with Lucy
Jess Oppenheimer, who was a producer of I Love Lucy and wrote many classic episodes, has produced a very enjoyable and engaging behind the scenes look at one of the greatest television shows ever. He provides a lot of insider tidbits on the production of the show and working with the cast. This book would be enjoyed by any fan of the series or of television's golden age. Very entertaining. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

"I Love Lucy...---Even MORE!!"
I had to read this book as part of my AP american history course at school. We had a semester to read a book on an Amercian person, and being me, I procrastinated until the last two days. Let me say, reading this book was no chore! I enjoyed it, and flew right through it. Charles Higham presents excellent in depth information into the private, and not so private lives of the Arnezes. I'd recommend this book to any Lucy fan! ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (10)

Lucy lover
I loved this book. It is chocked full of some famous pictures of the American icon, Lucielle Ball, as well as other not as well known shots. Its filled with well known episodes like the chocolate factory and the grape smashing. I really recommend it.

Wow! I thought that this book was great ! I am a huge fan !
Lucy a Life In Pictures was one of the best books I have ever read. I am a big fan of Lucy's so by reading this wonderful book I became farmiliar with her life.The pictures and captions were great so I would highly recomend this book to anyone who Loves Lucy.I Became a bigger Lucy fan by reading this book and a Tim Frew Fan as well! -Kesia

A MUST for Lucy fans!
"Lucy: A Life in Pictures" can only be described in one word - "fantastic"! The pictures are of great quality and the captions are super. To see Lucille Ball evolve from Goldwyn Girl, to what she is most remembered for today, Lucy Ricardo, is just great. I recommend.

Great Pictorial of the Greatest Comedienne to Ever Live!
I may be a little high on the praise, but Lucille Ball is truly deserving of all the accolades bestowed upon her during her life and since her death. No other performer has had such a lasting impression on the world of entertainment as she has.

One cannot forget that, despite the outrageous costumes worn and situations in which her various "Lucy" characters were involved, the fact remains that Lucille Ball was a very attractive woman. This book not only showcases the respective series but her work on the big screen as well as her early life.

Obviously, like the rest of us, the author really "loves" Lucy.

Great Book
I personily enjoyed reading this book. It had many awsome pictures and a lot of information about Lucy. There is a whole chapter about the show I Love Lucy containing summeries of some of the most faverable episodes. If you are a true lucy fan this is a great book to read.This book also has a little bit of infotmation on desi. ... Read more

Book Description

If you think you know everything about Lucille Ball, think again! Lucy A to Z, is a unique encyclopedic guide to the life and career of Lucy, the most beloved comedian of our time.

This second edition of Lucy A to Z is filled with newly discovered archival research and updated information, plus exclusive interviews; a new foreword by Lucy’s Number 1 Fan, Michael Stern; and details of the stage careers of the four “I Love Lucy” principals. A special treat: information on a “lost” Broadway play from 1963 in which one of the major characters was based on Lucille Ball: “Nobody Loves an Albatross.”

Since its initial publication in May 2001, Lucy A to Z has found acceptance in the hearts of Lucy fans everywhere, from the Lucy-Desi Museum in Jamestown, New York, to the “Loving Lucy” convention in Burbank, California, and all points in between.

The public has loved Lucille Ball for more than 50 years. This book is for those millions of fans.

Reviews (10)

Lucy A-Z Gets A 10+
This book was recommended to me by a friend and I couldn't put it down. I loved the format, the authors perspective and views were interesting and unique and you could tell he was a real Lucy fan (who isn't). Add this book to your cart and you won't be disappointed. You can read it again and again because of the unique way it is written. A must for Lucy fans. Enjoy!

A Must-Read for Sitcom Fans
One doesn't normally read an "encyclopedia" from cover to cover like others kinds of books, but you will find it hard to put Lucy A to Z down once you start. The brief but informative discussions of everything from Lucy characters and guest stars to details about her personal life are written in a fun and witty style. It makes you wish there was a book like this about every major television sitcom. Need trivia material? There's no better source of Lucy stumpers than Lucy A to Z.

Very valuable but don't buy it first
I enjoyed this book and was very informed by it. I doubt you can find more detailed background data about Lucille Ball's work (from the beginning of her career to the end, from stage to the big and small screens) and her (lesser known) co-stars and co-workers anywhere else. The problem is, I'm a new fan to Lucy and I wanted to read about her life in a more conventional way (where she was born, raised, her influences, her marriage, children, etc). Those types of books got such mixed reviews from fans that I thought I'd start with this one, which had only positive reviews. There is some basic bio in this book, but it assumes you know that type of information about Lucy. So I would just say: make sure you don't start with this book if you're a new fan. It's like getting to know her backwards (everyone around her instead of the star herself). This is definitely a book for seasoned fans who want to know "more."

A must read for any Lucy fan!
Great format, easy to read. Every coffee table must have one!!

Unique
A thoroughly enjoyable read on Lucy. Learned some things I never knew - and loved that way you could navigate from one section to another. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

A GOOD BOOK
MAYBE YOU SHOULD JUDGE A BOOK BY ITS COVER, BECAUSE THIS BOOK HAS A GREAT COVER AND ITS A GOOD BOOK. I WOULD HAVE READ IT EVEN IF I HADN'T HAD TO READ IT FOR A SCHOOL PAPER. I'M A FAN OF LUCILE BALL AND NOW I WATCH "I LOVE LUCY" AS MUCH AS I CAN, BECAUSE OF THIS BOOK.THANKS.

Short but Sweet!!
I joined the I Love Lucy Fan Club and this book was recommended. I liked how this book was short, and easy to read, but had a lot of good information about Lucys life. Her life wasn't always easy, but she made the best of it and really made a splash on television.I admire her a lot and I liked this book.

I Love LUCY...not this!
This is a flat, dry, boring biography of Lucille Ball.Try another bio instead!

THE REAL LUCY: Her Life, Love, and Legacy
On screen, Lucy Ball was one of the funniest women America had ever seen--but off screen, life wasn't always a comedy.This biography isenough to tell you that, and tells about some perticularlly important ILOVE LUCY episodes.But the text is dry and not lively and detialed. While it is a nice book to read for beginning readers who love theRecardos, it is not detialed, and focuses more on Lucy's acting career thanher personal life. If you want a good biography, try "Love Lucy",Lucy's autobiography.While it was written a few years before her death,it won't have close-to-end-of-life information, but it will be a whole lotmore detialed.

A fun book to read in the bathtub.
I liked this book because it was full of interesting facts about Lucy's life. I didn't know that much about her before I read the book, but when I did, I liked her a whole lot because she seemed like a real person. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A really WONDERFUL book!
They say pictures are worth 1000 words, but as far as I'm concerned the book doesn't need words! Some pictures I have NEVER seen before. I LOVE IT!

Still in print after 20 years...It's just that good!
Bart Andrews and Tom Watson celebrate the career of America's First Lady Of Comedy in this loving tribute. Released in 1980 and still in print today...it's just that good. ... Read more

Book Description

If you think you know everything about Lucille Ball, think again! Lucy A to Z is a unique encyclopedic tribute to the life and career of Lucy, the most beloved comedian of our time.

This third edition of Lucy A to Z is filled with newly discovered archival research and updated information. Author Michael Karol obtained exclusive interviews, like the chat with Lucy's personal secretary, Wanda Clark, and details of the stage careers of the four I Love Lucy principals. Fans will revel in a special treat: information on a "lost" Broadway play from 1963 in which one of the major characters was based on Lucille Ball called Nobody Loves an Albatross.

Since its initial publication in May 2001, Lucy A to Z has found acceptance in the hearts of Lucy fans everywhere, from the Lucy-Desi Museum in Jamestown, New York, to the Loving Lucy convention in Burbank, California, and all points in between.

The public has loved Lucille Ball for more than 50 years. Lucy A to Z was created especially for these millions of fans.

Book Description

In 1953, Desi Arnaz surprised Lucille Ball with a 13th Anniversary Party at this Hollywood club. Name the club.

The answer to this question, and hundreds of others, is in this little bottle...er, book, the first Lucy quiz book in more than 20 years!

So turn on, tune in, and get ready to test your Lucy IQ.

Reviews (2)

Everyone loves Lucy and Desi
I agree with the other reviewer on ONE point. I enjoyed this book because I liked learning about the life of Lucille Ball...but I also enjoyed learning about Desi. Desi DID treat Lucy right, and like he said, there was never a person he loved more than he did Lucy. At what point did anyone see Lucy come out with a black eye on screen? Can't answer that? That's because she never DID! Desi was always good to Lucy and they loved eachother, and this book tells about their love for eachother. (Although NO book could EVER capsize the love they felt for eachother...NEVER! )

A non romantic love story.
Lucy was born in 1911 and had a brother named Fred When Lucy was 15 she took a job at walgreens.She lost her job because she forgot to put the bananas on the banana splits.I didn;t like the book because her husband did not treat her that well.I enjoyed the book because I think it was very interesting to know about her life. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Academic-style biography succeeds
Higham really plunges deep with his account...I'm probably
in the minority who really and truly like his approach,
but he hits on just about everything I was hoping to
find. Released just a few years before Lucy died and
months before Desi died, the last few years of
Lucy's life aren't covered.

The tone is fairly despondent, and until reading
the bio, I never knew just how rough things
got for Lucy after she and Desi started up
their show in 1951. Their marriage was
clearly a match made in hell. Luckily Lucy
was able to go on and do a few other successful
projects over the years, despite her unstable
health and the incredible volume of stress
she endured.

One particularly nice chapter in the book is the
one that describes the purchase of RKO studios (which
would become Desilu Studios), putting nearly all their good fortune
on the line. This turned out to be a great
investment, but it was not without its problems-
it was the last big business deal made during
their marriage. During the course of the deal,
they were rehearsing the episode of "The Lucy Desi Comedy
Hour" with Tallulah Bankhead. Tallulah, being
her temperamental, melodramatic self, was
breaking nearly every rule in the book. She
was unpunctual, flubbed lines, drunk constantly, cursed out
the director and Lucy on the set. Desi
made the deal, only to come back to the
set and plunge headlong into another violent
fight with their guest star. Luckily, on the
night the show was shot in front of the
audience, Tallulah was flawless.

This book is a good supplement to the "Love, Lucy"
autobiography resurrected by Lucie Arnaz. Highly
recommended. ... Read more