Reviews (2)

Great Information on Johnny's Childhood and Rise To Stardom
Surprisingly little material is available concerning the life and times of America's greatest stand-up comic genius Johnny Carson. This book (a former Book-of-the-Month Club selection) offers up a wealth of illuminating information, particularly strong as it relates to Johnny's childhood and his first steps towards embracing the idea of a life in entertainment. A magic set he received as a youngster allowed Johhny to put on funny shows for his friends and family (wouldn't THAT have been something to behold!), and some years later in college, Johhny was the toast of the campus where he performed stand-up and emceed many events for the student body. Eventually the engaging Carson earned his legendary status as the 3rd host of the Tonight Show: 1. Steve Allen, 2. Jack Paar, 3. Johnny Carson, 4. Jay Leno. Until Johnny's own long-promised autobiography comes into print (which seems to be a big if at this point, unfortunately) we must make do with the scarce resources that are available, and this book does a good job with the Carson roots, and rise to prominence. Enjoy it!

Who Cares?
For all those Carson groupies who enjoy reading uninteresting anecdotes about a boring, arrogant, cliche-spewing, polyester-clad windbag, this will be a fascinating read; for everyone else, it is a total waste of time. ... Read more

Reviews (22)

VERY funny and VERY interesting!
Like the title of my review states-this Jamie Kennedy autobiography is both VERY funny and VERY interesting!This book is also: very honest, thorough, hilarious, engaging and even inspiring! The book details ALL of Jamie Kennedy's hardships and also his dogged determination in his attempt to make it in Hollywood.ANYONE who is even REMOTELY a fan of Kennedy's or is thinking about and/or is currently trying to make it in Hollywood should BUY this book...RIGHT NOW! TRUST me, you WON'T regret it!

Funny Stuff....
If you are a Jamie Kennedy fan this book is a must read -- many laughs!

Hilarious Book.... Over The Top Story.
Firstly this book is hiliarous.If you like Jamie's brand of off-the-cuff ingenious comedy on The Jamie Kennedy Experiment, then you will appreciate and enjoy this book.

To me, Jamie Kennedy's story is totally over the top because when he gets to Hollywood it sounds like he just sort of acted like the biggest buffoon, celebrity-wannabe of all time... yet somehow he ends up "making it."He goes from being totally homeless without a cent to being a regular on Ellen!?!

The book really starts to get interesting when Jamie creates Marty Power, is fake agent.That's when you really start to see where the elements of JKX are rooted.

Anyway, good job Jamie, you're great... and to any fans, spend the money or check this book out from the library and give it a read.

ONE OF MY ALL-TIME FAVORITE BOOKS
I'm not really a kid.I just didn't feel like registering.Now for the important stuff: This book is amazing.I wish it had received more publicity because EVERYONE needs to have a copy.This is one you need to own because you will want to read it multiple times.I saw the hardcover version in a book store and just had to see what it was all about.After skimming over just a few pages I knew I had to have this book.The other reviews are correct in that it has all the elements of a great story.I knew after skimming the book that it would be funny but I was surprised at how thoughtful and deep Jamie Kennedy is.His offbeat sense of humor always shines through though.I put it right up there with Bruce Campbell's "If Chins Could Kill".Now buy it!(By the way, the paperback has a bonus chapter that contains answers to fans' questions and some funny and very useful advice on acting and life in general.)

Wonderful and funny book!
I have been a Jamie Kennedy fan since I saw him in the first "Scream" movie and I just recently heard about this book.I couldn't put it down!It was so funny and such a great look into Jamie's pursuit to get into show business and all the ups and downs that he had to go through to get there.He was so determined and nothing kept him from reaching his dreams and goals.I would definitely recommend this book. ... Read more

Book Description

Former star correspondent for CNN, Siobhan Darrow covered the world’s hottest war zones over the last two decades, reporting from the front lines in Moscow, Chechnya, the Balkans, Albania, Israel, and Northern Ireland. Her fearless pursuit of stories placed her in countless life-threatening situations, prompting Darrow to wonder what about her character so attracted her to adrenaline, and so alienated her from the family life a part of her longed for. Darrow approaches this question with the same honesty–and seat-of-the-pants courage–that established her reputation as a premiere reporter, and the answers she arrives at form this riveting memoir of a woman assigned to cover history in the making, even as she chases down the most elusive “get” of all: her own happiness. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Good Book
I thought this book was pretty good. It was really intriguing to hear what a person in those situations really thinks about. She's had a very interesting life. She is a very intellectual writer.

eh...
Siobhan Darrow has had such an interesting life that it's a shame that it falls flat on the pages of her autobiography. While informational in terms of evolution of CNN and the role of women in journalism, especially war journalism, it reads like a school report "and then I did this...and then I did this..." infused with pop-psychology platitudes. Her self-reflexiveness seems cliche and almost obligatory, creating what reads like a paint-by-numbers memoir. I would recommend Deborah Kogan's "Shutterbabe" instead, as an example of insightful, engaging, throughful, well-paced and well-written account of a woman's life in a dangerous, historically macho-dominated profession of war reportage.

great read
I ripped through this book quickly, unable to put it down. the writing style was cynical, quick witted, and a touch raw.

adolescent girls should read this not only to learn the battles that other women have fought for their individuality, but also because the author points out how her personal battle was waged on the hand of a few bad decisions and what the price can be for making such decisions.

More Than A Great Read!
This is a great story; well written, humorous, and full of fascinating "behind-the-scenes" glimpses of life as a CNN correspondent. In the end, however, the thing that really makes this book worth the read is the author's willingness and ability to share her own personal journey. Her story moved me deeply and made me freshly aware of the joys and challenges of my own life. It also left me wanting to hear more! When is her next book coming out?!

Brilliant!
This is one of the best books I've read this year! Darrow is witty, warm, and wise. I found myself comparing my own childhood experiences with hers, and was amazed by how much we have in common. Darrow was honest enough to share the pain and humiliation she suffered growing up without much money, and I could relate.

Siobhan Darrow is a refreshing voice of truth in modern day autobiographies. I recommend this book to everyone! She will transport you all over the world in her global adventures, sharing her unique brand of humor and self-reflection. The book was so exciting, I read it in one evening and the next day began to read it again! As a young woman in the media, I am thankful to have such a great role model. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A TV LEGEND and GREAT book!
THANKS so much to the Author for doing a book on one of the GREATEST people to grace the TELEVISION Screen! CAR 54, Where Are You? Is one of the BEST written and Expertly crafted TV Sitcoms to ever make it to the screen. I really feel sorry for people who have time to proof read sample pages on the internet and criticize mis-spelled words? From a GREAT book! Buy it!

You might want to rethink this Sample business.
This is more a review of the sample presentation on this page, since it is supposed to entice the reader into buying the book. I'm a person who was looking forward to buying the book and now I have my doubts.

Books cost a lot of money. While I'll put up with the sloppy grammar and spelling which are the spice of life for internet writers, if I pay for a book I expect decent proofreading. What is on the front flyleaf? In discussing Hiken's greatest creation, Sgt. Bilko, the editor allows the author to misspell "Sergeant." Three times. On the flyleaf, which is supposed to dazzle us.

And then Amazon compounds the sloppiness. In going through the sample pages, I find that pages 7 & 8 aren't even from this book.

I gave three stars because it's not fair to rate a book high or low when you haven't read it yet. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The day Good Morning America entertainment critic Joel Siegel brought his son Dylan home from the hospital was also the last day of his chemotherapy for colon cancer.Siegel began writing Lessons for Dylan two years later, when he was diagnosed with lung cancer. The result is a tender and entertaining "just in case" autobiography/tutorial for his son. Siegel’s life is the curriculum; he instructs his son with vignettes from the family album, his battles with the "witch of cancer," his divorce, the death of his first wife, adventures as a reporter, and his star scrapbook including interviews with the Beatles, Bruce Springsteen, and Brad Pitt. He writes movingly of the Holocaust’s shadow in his family. Yet the Jewishness he passes on to Dylan is more cultural--arecipe for brisket, a history of Judaism in four jokes, and a great introduction to speaking Yiddish.

Siegel's self-portrait has a Zelig-like quality: he registers voters in Atlanta, meets Martin Luther King, attends a Ku Klux Klan meeting, writes jokes for Bobby Kennedy, visits Haight-Ashbury during the Summer of Love and invents German chocolate for Thirty-One Flavors in Los Angeles. He is an engaging writer, stronger in storytelling than self-reflection. His occasional self-importance, saying for example, "that was before I was Joel Siegel," detracts from his wonderful intention of talking to his son. When his reporter’s voice speaks louder than his newfound wisdom as a father, Siegel seems to be writing for a wider audience. --Barbara Mackoff ... Read more

Reviews (6)

YOU'LL LAUGH. YOU'LL CRY. YOU'LL LEARN YIDDISH.
I've trusted Joel Siegel's movie picks since he joined the ABC New York affiliate in 1976, and 99% of the time he's been right. I borrowed his memoir from the library and enjoyed it so much I bought a copy to reference again and again. This book has it all: Love Stories. History Lessons. Comedy. Tragedy. Celebrity Gossip. Career Tips. Recipes. A Glossary of Yiddish Expressions. Siegel fought for civil rights, met the Beatles, rubbed elbows with Hollywood glitterati, battled cancer and lived to tell his tale. What started as a legacy for his young son is a legacy for us all. With wit, humor, and brutal honesty, Seigel reminds us what it's all about: Family. Love. Chicken Soup. Pair it up with All I Need to Know I Learned In Kindergarten and you have the blueprints for a happy, full, rich life.

Another great read on the importance of family and personal success: Use What You've Got & Other Lessons I Learned from My Mom by Barbara Corcoran

Outstanding
A look at Joel's amazing life and the unconditional love from a father to his son. Anyone who's had a cancer experience in their life will find themselves in the pages of this book. It will make you laugh and cry out loud.

Lessons for Dylan and whoever reads it...
A terrific book that reminds you of what is most important in life - love and laughter! I laughed and cried and picked up a whole lot of "trivia pursuit-like" knowledge along the way.

Lessons for Dylan
Great book! Fun stories, a very interesting and varied life, and many poignant moments along the way. Loved it.

I couldn't put it down!!!
Hilariously entertaining!! Poigniant. Made me laugh at things most people cry over. Made me think about things I want to do with my son. I'm also going to watch Citizen Kane with the Commentary ON. Ringo is a WHAT?? ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Just the Facts, Ma'am
Please tell the authors that I really enjoyed their book. Thank you so much for writing about one of my favorite TV detectives. It's very interesting. Thank you.

Just the facts, little critical analysis
As an authorized biography, and one written in collaboration (before her death) with Webb's daughter, it's not surprising that this volume is both informative of the minutiae of Webb's life and is almost completely uncritical of the man, his working methods, his relationships, and his works.

More annoying is the very poor organization. Facts are presented with little relationship to each other, and very little of a negative or human nature is passed along. Chronology is more or less tossed out the window. Particular works are referred to out of order, and rarely is much detail given about the shows themselves, or Webb's creative choices. Anecdotes are chock-a-block with each other, with paragraphs inserted, apparently at random, of laundry lists of Webb's cars, or his favorite foods.

Excessive space is given to mini-biographies of some of the major players in Webb's life -- and contributors to the book. Do we really need to know the genesis of Bobby Troup's "Get Your Kicks on Route 66" in a biography of Jack Webb?

The book's notes and bibliography are extensive, and it's clear the authors had good access to any number of important people. I only wish they had done a better job of giving us a better organized work, and had taken a more analytical approach to Webb and his work, rather than a 280-page press release of his life.

The humanity, triumphs, & foibles behind a well-known figure
In his famous role as Joe Friday on the syndicated television series Dragnet, as well as later TV classics Adam-12 and Emergency, Jack Webb has become a beloved figure to more than one generations. This authorized biography, for which author Dan Moyer spent years working with Webb's daughter Stacy to research her father's life, describes Jack Webb's life from a hard childhood to an early radio career and finally stardom. Revealing Jack Webb as an artist personality whose passion for his craft sometimes caused problems in his relationship, Just The Facts, Ma'am: The Authorized Biography Of Jack Webb shows the humanity, triumphs, and foibles behind a well-known cult figure.

Great book of TV Legend
As one of Jack Webb's Mark VII and "Adam-12" producers, I want to applaud the authors for writing, "Just the Facts, Ma'am. The Authorized Biography of Jack Webb." The book, among many subjects, includes interesting information about Webb's talented and beautiful first wife Julie London and her second husband, jazz great Bobby Troup. The book brought other treasured memories back to me, such as my being the best man at Webb's marriage to the beautiful Jackie Loughery, Miss USA and the leading lady in Webb's film, "The D.I." Webb's daughter Stacy greatly contributed to this book and I was pleased to assist and advise the authors in the completion of this work. Much attention is given to Jack's radio days, and his TV "Dragnet," "Adam-12," "Emergency," and many other Mark VII projects many persons know little about. The book covers all of Webb's movies, and offers personal and unknown insights about Jack Webb. Numerous photographs were generously offered by Jack's closet family members and friends. They along with the story documentation, and chronology of Webb's life enhance this much needed biography of one of Hollywood's most innovative film pioneers. I highly recommend this authorized biography, and accurate book about my friend and television legend-Jack Webb. "Just the Fact's, Ma'am" is an enjoyable and enlightening read.

The Man behind the badge
A fairly well written biography of one of Americas most loved and alsomost parodied TV cops. A good insight into the man behind the myth with lots of photographs. Things may not always be phrased just right in the book but you will come away with a greater understanding of Webb the man and perhaps even a greater appreciation of his work. For Webb fans a definite read. ... Read more

Amazon.com

American comedian Andy Kaufman (1949-1984) was a performer like no other--a rule-breaking iconoclast who blurred the line between performance art and comedy, at times between life and art itself. Misunderstood by the public at large during his lifetime, and embraced by a cult of fans that has consistently grown since his premature death from cancer, Kaufman is the perfect counter-cultural martyr, ripe for a Gap khakis ad. Like Lenny Bruce before him, Kaufman chafed at the reigns of comedy; he didn't always want to make people laugh, in fact he wished to make them uncomfortable. One might consider those notorious French bad-boy playwrights Alfred Jarry and Antonin Artaud (who pushed the envelope of good taste and thoroughly enjoyed confusing their audiences) to be Kaufman's spiritual predecessors, though this might be taking things too seriously. His most well-known routines--the inept stand-up comedian "foreign man," the basis for the character Latka Gravas on the hit sitcom "Taxi"; the grizzled, professional lounge lizard Tony Clifton; and the reigning world champion of inter-gender wrestling--all hinged on making the crowd squirm. Life was a show for Kaufman, who began staging elaborate shows for friends and family at the age of 7; everything was a put-on and yet totally, dead-on serious.

Judging by Bob Zmuda's book (released in anticipation of a biographical movie starring Jim Carrey), Kaufman wasn't the easiest guy to be a best friend to. But, as Zmuda tells things, he rose to the challenge--letting Kaufman confide that he had a daughter he'd never seen, keeping his mouth shut at the appropriate times, and otherwise fulfilling best-friend duties with aplomb. Andy Kaufman got the friend he deserved in his lifetime, but this is not the biography he deserves; it is written in a well-meaning though hackneyed and hard-to-digest style. Simple points are made again and again, as if the two(!) authors were attempting to fuse a poorly-written college essay with a USA Today article. And Mr. Zmuda makes the mistake of assuming that his own history will be of much interest to the reader, who is ostensibly reading a tell-all about Kaufman, not his best friend. There are tremendous anecdotes here; about half the book is filled with glorious tales of artful mischief, hijinks, pranks, and funny stuff that Zmuda and Kaufman pulled on friends, crowds, and strangers. Fans will undoubtedly want to pick this one up, while those with a more casual interest are cautioned to perhaps look elsewhere for a less clumsily written tome. --Mike McGonigal ... Read more

Reviews (114)

a plodding read
Don't let the title fool you...this book is as much about Bob Zmuda as Andy Kaufman, if not more so. For someone who's supposedly written for Kaufman, Dangerfield, and others, you'd think his story telling ability would be more compelling...more exciting.

But it's not, and I find myself more scanning the book for Andy parts than actually reading it. Zmuda is, dare I say, just feeding off his best friend's success, trying to make us feel that he was truly an integral part of Andy's genius. I woulda believed that before reading the book...but now, well, now I'm completely indifferent. Zmuda's writing is like listening to a long-winded bore at some party you don't really want to be at.

In true Kaufman fashion, however, Zmuda has the last laugh. For, no matter how good or bad this book might be, regardless, Bob's got my money.

Andy would be proud.

A rebuttal to the review by Mike McGonigal
I read this book twice so far, and it is one of the most inspiring and informative pieces of work on Andy Kaufman. He is an idol of mine for reasons beyond his "comedic" ways. But instead of me raving about Kaufman, I would like to comment on some things written by Mike McGonigal in his review. He states that Bob Zmuda made a bad decision to inform readers of his friendship with Kaufman; and also personal happenings and whatnot. Basically, he's saying Zmuda shouldn't have included stories of his own history. Mike McGonignal also states that the reader "is ostensibly reading a tell-all about Kaufman, not his best friend". Perhaps true for some, but I don't appreciate being told why I read a book. And perhaps I'm overreacting, but my point is, I prefer to hear Zmuda's history and any other personal bits of information he decides to tell about. This is also a good writing tactic because it's a way of showing credentials for their history and friendship. McGonignal also stated that "Simple points are made again and again, as if the two(!) authors were attempting to fuse a poorly-written college essay with a USA Today article". I may not be a so-called professional writer as of yet, but I've been writing for a while and study closely to styles of writing and comedic ways. With that, Zmuda's biography about his best friend was meant to be more of an informative and personal piece of literature; opposed to a masterfully written piece that McGonignal was maybe making an excursion for. The way it was written, I felt like Zmuda and I were just chilling out in a room and he was telling me stories of what went on, and how they planned and organized certain "bits", if at all. Zmuda took a personal journey into his past, his mind, and into his best friends unexpected short life. He uncovered secrets that were kept for many years by Kaufman and Zmuda's most trusted family and friends; only to be told when the time was right. Unfortunately the right time followed Kaufman's death. If readers only wanted facts and stories about Kaufman and his many antics, or only had a "casual interest", then they could simply tune in to the television and catch an Andy Kaufman special which document those such things and tend to dwell on the Foreign Man character or his dead-on Elvis "empression". Readers that want to find out the roots of these characters, hijinks, pranks, bordello-outings, inter-gender wrestling, and so on should read this book; and will appreciate it.

Excellent read...
This is a great book on the life of Andy Kaufman, through the eyes of his best friend Bob Zmuda. I am not a big book reader, but I have read this like 5 times already. Any book that will make you laugh out loud one minute, shake my head in disbelief another is a good read. I actully cried reading the last 2 chapters every time I do read the book (quite embarrasing when I am on a bus to work!!). Zmuda has alot of stories on Andy's life. Other reviews state that he is writing all about himself, that is not the case, as he is writing about the 2 of them, as they worked on everything together. Who better to write a book on Andy than the guy who knew him best??

Unfortunatly the movie, "Man On The Moon", which was based on this book, dosent do this justice, I was very disapointed. If your a fan, and saw the movie and didnt quite like it, read the book...you wont be dissapionted.

Unsung Hero
I first learned of Andy Kaufman after seeing Man on the Moon, featuring Jim Carrey starring as the late "song and dance man." I use the term song and dance man, because Kaufman never thought of himself as a comedian, he was only a song and dance man - an entertainer. This book provides an in-depth look into the mind of Andy Kaufman through his best friend and producer, Bob Zmuda. I never thought I would be so inspired by this book. The way that Andy saw the world was so different that he influenced many comics that perform today. He thought of audience entertaining him, and himself being their audience. It is really hard to explain how amazing this book is without actually reading it. If you saw Man on the Moon and liked it, you will no doubt love this book, because it takes the movie to a whole new level. I only wish Andy were around today to keep influencing others and changing comedy as we know it.

Then again, maybe he is still alive. I guess we'll never know...

Revisionist History
While this book is certainly a must read for diehard Kaufman fans (myself included), as it offers a few tidbits on Andy not found elsewhere, it serves mostly as a vehicle for Zmuda to attempt to overcome his feeling slighted at not receiving enough credit for Kaufman's work. Apparently, Zmuda was the brainchild behind most of Kaufman's schemes. I don't doubt that Zmuda was an important person in Andy's life and collaborated with Andy, yet Zmuda makes it known that Andy wouldn't be anything without him--an idea I find ludicrous.

A better book is Bill Zehme's biography of Kaufman, Lost in the Funhouse, which seems more even handed in its treatment of Zmuda's and Kaufman's collaboration.

So, read Zmuda if you must, but know that Zmuda's book is of firstmost importance to Zmuda himself. ... Read more

Book Description

This is a story of how one American Family turned its bright expectations into crushing disappointment and then, ultimately, victory of spirit. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Without equal!
I have never felt so personally attached to a book in my life. Jon became my friend on the first few pages, and there were times, like I told him in an e-mail that I wanted to shake him good for contributing to his father's addictions. Then my attitude would change. He never ceased being my friend though.

Having a rather awkward relationship with my own father made this story "real" to me. I never went to the lengths Jon did to "make it right."

I recommend this book to everyone, because everyone can find themselves in this unbelievable story of the human spirit and the will of a young man to "make things right." I'm sorry there are only 5 stars I could give this book.

I hope those of you who have read this fantastic story will agree with me when I take words from the Forward and say, Jon, you took the "right sense" way. Thank you again for writing it, and bearing your soul to all of us who needed to read it.

Ron

Powerful, Unsentimental Autobiography
This is *not* just another Oprah-book. It is unsentimental: every emotion and insight is dearly earned. One of the most interesting things about it is that Du Pre doesn't come off as a very likable person in the middle stages of the book; he presents himself as self-absorbed and harsh with those around him. His final confrontation with his father is wrenching and unforgettable. The message of this book: you have to face down your demons in order to be a complete human being. Not a very "New Age" or touchy-feely moral. The author's Mormon background is a central part of his story, and should interest readers who are curious about that religion. This book reminds me of Mikal Gilmore's masterful "Shot in the Heart", William Kennedy's great novel "Ironweed", and Geoffrey Wolff's memoir "The Duke of Deception": august company, indeed.

A Must Read
This book is a must read for all! I found myself captivated from the first paragraph to the final word. Jon was able to pull me in to his world which caused me to reflect on my own past. Even though my background is different from Jon's, I was still able to relate. I could feel Jon and his brother's triumphs, heartaches, and pain. I was touched by his wife and children's generosity and selflessness. I laughed and cried while reading this touching story. I thank Jon for not letting his story die, but for sharing it with us.I highly recommend this book!

Absolutely Terrific
I rarely find myself drawn to "relationship" stories, but Prodigal Father was terrific. I found myself drawn to each chapter and couldn't put it down until I hit the last page.

A riveting book
I found this book difficult to put down possibly because I was searching also to see why Jon's father became the person he did. ... Read more

Book Description

Good killers are hard to find. But the CIA has no trouble finding the legendary TV producer and game show king Chuck Barris. In Bad Grass Never Dies, Barris picks up the fast-paced intrigue in Hollywood, where his emotional life lies in ruins, his career careens out of control, and he can't get a break anyplace he turns. Then one day a high-ranking CIA boss appears unannounced on Barris' doorstep. The CIA needs the cooperation of a Mexican terrorist, and Barris is ordered to recruit the killer as a paid assassin. Complicating matters is the fact that this same assassin is responsible for the death of two of Barris' fellow operatives. What's to prevent him from facing the same fate on arrival in Mexico? Barris' beguiling humor and a crack-shot taxi driver hold the answer. The stakes continue to build in this eagerly awaited sequel from the author who dazzled and amused readers-and later movie audiences-with the publication of his first book of memoirs, Confessions of a Dangerous Mind. ... Read more

Book Description

Harry Caray broadcast over 8,000 regular season games. His first game was on opening day in 1945. Harry packed 883 years of living into and 83-year life and lived by a simple credo: "The meter is running so you'd better live it up." ... Read more

Reviews (1)

How can u beat Harry Caray?
I Remember Harry Caray is a good book and i highly suggest buying it if you are a die hard Cubs fan like myself. This book has some very good stories in it about Harry and the Cubbies. Harry Caray is in my mind what really kept me watching the Cubs through their terrible years and this book is the perfect tribute to a wonderful man. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

¡Muy bueno! It's a lot of fun!!
Ya me había leído este libro en inglés hace unos meses y me encantó. Hay partes que te mueres de la risa, y en otras te dan ganas de llorar con la historia de George. Me volvió a gustar otra vez en español. Está divertido, y muy real, muy del corazón en otras partes. Una buena historia de éxito de un latino en USA. En español lo sientes hasta más genuino que en inglés. Y no tienes que ser un fan de George para que te guste.

English now for the gringos:
I had already read this book in English a few months ago and loved it. And loved it again now in Spanish. It's a lot of fun, moving, inspiring, and a real success story. I compared it to the original and found that the translation faithfully conveys the great feeling, humor and spirit of the English version. You don't have to be a George Lopez's fan to enjoy it in any language. ... Read more

Book Description

She opened for jazz great Billie Holliday, clowned withPhil Silvers in Broadway's "Top Banana", shared an upper berth with Marilyn Monroe in "Some Like ItHot", flirted with Jack Lemmon in Irma "La Douce" and murdered the same man over and over againon "The Outer Limits."Her extensive TV credits include "Surfside Six," "Bonanza,""The Untouchables," "Gunsmoke," "The Big Valley," "Hart to Hart," "Batman," and "Bewitched,"just to name a few.

In her dream role, Gene Roddenberry beamed her aboard the StarshipEnterprise as Yeoman Janice Rand for the original "Star Trek" series.But a terrifying sexualassault on the studio lot and her lifelong feelings of emptiness and isolation would soon combine to turnher starry dream into a nightmare.

"I had a hole in my gut with the wind blowing through.I was in pain. I craved validation.And I looked for solace in alcohol, drugs and sex."

Whitney attributes this event with triggering the most lengthy andsevere bout of her decades-long addiction to drugs, alcohol and sex.Clean, sober and a born againmessianic Jew, Whitney recalls with frankness, warmth and humor her life-long battle to be a "goodgirl," and her hunger for a sense of belonging and acceptance.

"People ask if this isn't embarrassing to talk about, and well, yes, atleast it was in the beginning.But I learned something very important.You're as sick as your secrets. Once a secret isn't a secret anymore, it loses its power over you." ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Great Book to Help Alcoholics & Substance Abuse
I found this author's openness "amazing." The story of the original Star Trek is very little because the author kept the story line mostly "about her life", her ideology and personal affairs more than about Star Trek. Star Trek is used as a vehicle to tell her story of alcohol, sex, drugs, religion, recovery and survival; which makes it an Important book for anyone who is suffering from addictions. I found the book educational about what one goes through when in the throes of addiction; i.e., dry drunk where alcohol is replaced by pot, medical issues about circulation in the legs, etc. from alcohol and drug abuse, etc. I find the story of her ex-husbands being able to railroad and take her to the cleaners financially very informative and a "wake up call" to others in a similar situation, meaning, being drunk or stoned blinds one and makes a person a victim to those who are opportunists. I found the recovery part of the book great -- the author's lifelong longing to feel connected, loved and accepted by those she likes and respects and she finally feels all this when with the actors in the AA meeting she'll finally attend and accept sobriety. This is a wonderful thing she shared with us readers as many in our society do feel this same sense of longing. The author also showed an iron will throughout her life, which I'm sure is why she was able to survive such a tragic, horrific life of abuse. It's a good read, well written and one I'd recommend to those who learn and grow from another's experiences, i.e., marrying someone without really knowing their attitudes about women. The first ex-husand in this book is a great example. His looks, talent, being in the music industry became more the author's focus than him being from a background that is known for their horrific neglect of women and total male authority over women. And, the second ex-husband is a great lesson in that a person can go over the edge when an alcoholic or drug addict when getting involved with someone who is one also. There is much to gain from reading this book when one is struggling with abuse of any kind, whether it's emotional neglect, men with anger outbursts in marriage, to women who marry not really knowing the other person, to those afflicted with addictions. Gradulations Grace Whitney for baring all to us. You've had an amazing life.

Enjoyable Book
I enjoyed this book, but I am having a difficult time deciding how much. It certainly was one of the more interesting and truthful ones, as far as autobiographical information goes. It was not however, one of my favorites, as far the Star Trek Alumni Biographies go. George Takei's and Walter Koenig's take the top two spots there. Her battle for sobriety was forthright and made for good reading. I can't really buy into her claims to have had visions from God, although I do believe that SHE believes them. Whether that affects the overall "rating" for the book, I guess you will have to decide for yourself. Otherwise, I found her forthrightness to be a refreshing aspect, although the writing here is not quite up to par.
She does vididly describe her Star Trek experiences and those since, and finally reveals the truth behind her departure from the show (a really stupid mistake on the producers part; Yeoman Rand would have continued to add a lot to the series). Overall, the book was a worthwhile read, and most people won't be disappointed, but you might find books from the other Star Trek Alumni to be better written.

A moving and inspiring book
I am a long time Star Trek fan who bought this book because I have had the honor of meeting Ms. Whitney at a couple of conventions, and she has impressed me with her warmth and wit. I read this book in a single sitting because I could not put it down. Unlike the other Trek memoirs I've read, this one focuses not on a TV series, but on the incredible story of a woman's fight to find peace with God and herself. This book is a must read for anyone who has ever experienced tragedy, loss of self esteem, or addiction. The one thing that concerns me most is that I feel too many people will look on this as just another Star Trek book when its audience should be far greater than just Trek fans. The author has bared her soul in an attempt to help others, and the courage that must have taken is awe-inspiring. Bravo, Grace Lee!

Fascinating and Inspiring
I was very impressed by this memoir. Grace Lee Whitney went through some terrible ordeals in her life and her account of how she eventually recovered from them and found spiritual peace as a Jewish Christian, while somewhat unorthodox for me to fully comprehend at first, ranks as one of the most inspiring accounts I've read this past year. Probably what impressed me most however, was her willingness to challenge the late Gene Roddenberry's long-standing diatribes against religion and faith in general by using herself as an example of what happens to one who decides its better to reject God in the name of doing one's own thing and thinking it's somehow "liberating" when ultimately it leads to the worst consequences imaginable.

Excellent book
Miss Whitney did a wonderful job on this book. She tells more of what went on behind the scenes than most of the other characters did in their books. She is so open in writing this book that it really should not go unread. ... Read more

Book Description

Betty Garrett's memoir is a tale of grace under pressure. It's a lovely, moving song of survival.--Studs Terkel ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Lovely book from a lovely lady!
Betty's wit, wisdom and reflections prove that there's a lot more to her than a pretty face and wise-cracks. Talent, sensitivity and grace make her a beautiful author with something important to say. Show business enthusiasts and historians alike will greatly enjoy her story. And, since her career is enjoying a recent resurgence, we can only hope she'll write a sequel, soon!

Beautifully written.
I have loved the movies of both Betty Garrett and Larry Parks for years, and now feel that I have read their love story. Betty's descriptions of her multi-faceted career and personal life were written with humor, warmth, and love. She and Larry endured the 'unofficial' blacklist and other obstacles together, and showed what "in good times and in bad" really meant. I admire and adore them both even more now. Her book is a wonderful read and her career isn't even over.

Great Book!
I like Betty Garrett very much! From Laverne & Shirley, All In The Family-very funny! I like that the book is her autobiography! I can't wait to read all about the life & times of the lovely Betty Garrett! I also have David L. Lander's autobiography & the unofficial Penny Marshall book! Any one who's a fan of "Laverne & Shirley" e-mail me @: tiff_lisatony7@yahoo.com. We can chat about Betty, Penny, David, Cindy, Michael, Phil, & evrything else related to "Laverne & Shirley".

What a lovely woman! What an interesting life!
I have always enjoyed Ms. Garrett's work and this book made me love her all the more. Her enduring love affair with Larry Parks, her interesting family, her career and personality made me wish I could have dinner with her or better yet, have her be a houseguest for a month or two! This was a most pleasant, informative read.

If you like show business, read this book!
A wonderfully honest and engaging book...I have always loved to watch Betty Garrett's work, and reading about it all from her candid and funny perspective was a joy. From the MGM days to Archie Bunker to today, this book provides insights that a lot of others miss. Interesting, too, to read her perspective on the McCarthy madness. I'm an actress just starting out, and Betty's love for the work really inspired me! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Invaluable portrait of "self will run riot"
This book is an invaluable portrait of Roseanne and her family, and how her family coped with Roseanne's sexual abuse allegations in the early 1990s. It is also, primarily, the story of sisters, who worked together to create a successful business (Roseanne's career) and how the relationship came apart when Roseanne became a household name. On one level, the book is not without its flaws: it is overwritten and at times repetitive. However, these flaws are balanced by the author's mostly successful attempts to present all sides of the story in straight-forward prose. Barr is as candid discussing her own shortcomings -- and those of her family -- as she is in portraying Roseanne's and the book emerges as a cut above the average tell-all memoir. That the Barr family seemed to become a closer unit in the wake of Roseanne's abuse allegations is the real story here.

The Tale of Two Sisters
This story paints a very different portrait of Roseanne. According to Geraldine; the author and Roseanne's sister; "Rosanne; the domestic goddess" was a creative venture between the two sisters. Geraldine helped Roseanne get to the top; only to be abandoned. The entire story leads you to speculate what happened and before the end; you can pretty much figure it all out. If you wondered what happened with Roseanne and her family after she publicly described her memories of sexual molestation; this story tells you; the sad details. (no conclusion as to where the truth lies; but it literally broke the family apart) An interesting story about two sisters growing up in Utah and making a dream come true. Although Roseanne was known for her comedy; this tells the story of a very unhappy and unfunny woman and her sister. It's an interesting read; even if she wasn't famous; the story line is unique. The book flows nicely and is an easy read.

Not Worth Your Time
If you were to total all the interesting parts of this book, you'd come up with about thirty pages. Mostly, it chronicles how Roseanne Barr went off her rocker when she got involved with Tom Arnold and then, with the aid of false memory syndrome, betrayed her family. If you have a lot of patience and don't mind reading the same thing over and over couched in different (yet still unlyrical) language, then it might entertain you just for the dirt it gives on a major celebrity. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Not only is gap-toothed Mick Foley a heavy character in the World Wrestling Federation, he is the undisputed literary champion of the wrestling bestseller. It's amazing that there is such a thing as a "wrestling bestseller," and that fact owes largely to the No. 1 bestselling success of Foley's first book, Have a Nice Day! Now he's back with another memoir, Foley Is Good: And the Real World Is Faker Than Wrestling, and fans will not be disappointed by the jokes, the jibes at fellow WWF arm-twisters, and the genial charm of the literary behemoth of our time. ... Read more

Reviews (124)

"Foley is Good".........at writing as well as wrestling
The man has a gift. Following up his #1 bestseller biographical debut, "Have a Nice Day", as well as his first in a series of children's Christmas books, Mick Foley has graced us with his 3rd title, "Foley Is Good".

Foley breaks down the fourth wall for wrestling fans, in his own witty way, and grants us a peek into the other side of professional wrestling. Literally following right where his former book left off, we don't miss a minute of the final run of Foley's active wrestling career - including achieving a lifelong dream of main eventing WrestleMania. We get to follow him through his retirement and are right there as he re-enters the Federation as it's new commissioner.

Whether he's rattling off another Al Snow joke, expressing the sheer pain of double knee surgery, being questioned in a courtroom, or reflecting on the passing of a wrestling colleague, Foley has the gift of making us feel as if we're right there beside him and are fortunate enough to be experiencing the same roller-coaster of emotions as he is.

Truly a must-read for any wrestling fan and a solid follow up to "Have a Nice Day" (dare I say, even better?).

Not as good as I hoped
As a Mick Foley and WWF fan, it's hard to give this review anything other than a 5 star rating but I don't think this one deserves it BECAUSE his first book was about 10 times better.

I think that the appeal of his first effort "Have a Nice Day" was his vivid depiction of so many popular characters in pro-wrestling....from Vince McMahon to Ric Flair. But in this book he tends to shy away from that and instead concentrates a lot more time on his family life (he talks about rollercoasters for 20% of this book) and on the image of wrestling as a whole.

I enjoyed the backstage views and thoughts on the creation of wrestling angles and characters. However, he really disappointed me by skimming over his final Wrestlemania match in TWO SENTENCES!!!! I mean come on, I wanted to hear much more about that than I wanted to hear about his battle with the Parent Teacher's Council.

If you're a Mick Foley fan buy this book because it gives you information that any real wrestling fan should have at their fingertips. But if you're expecting "Have a Nice Day" think again. For some reason it seems like he's writing the book from a distance, constantly removing himself from the book and talking about "While I wrote this chapter I was...." Why does he do that? Just talk about what I bought the book for.....WRESTLING!!!! I don't care about your children's favorite Pokemon character, but I do care about your thoughts on Austin, Kane, etc! Give us more of that!

Almost as good...
Foley IS Good, but this second attempt at an autobiography falls short of his first. That is not to take anything away from this attempt, but simply to say that his prior work "Have a Nice Day" is definatley superior. A great read for any fan of professional wrestling or a great story from a boy from Long Island, NY. Read his first autobiography first, though.

Foley, indeed, Is Good
Mick Foley's tenure in the WWF surely left him with more stories to tell than he could fit in his first novel 'Mankind - Have A Nice Day' -- which weighed in at a respectable 700 pages. And Foley Is Good proves just that.

While Have A Nice Day was a more chronological autobiography of Mick Foley and his adventures in the world of blood, sweat, wrestling, true love and amusement parks, Mick Foley Is Good expands the story and adds new material to it. It also touches subjects that obiviously were not mentioned before, such as the success of the first book, drugs, alcohol and steroid use in wrestling, his retirement from WWF and the semi-comeback etc. They add depth to some of the stories discussed in the first volume and, admirably, raise new subjects of discussion.

The tone and in-imitable writing style of Mick Foley remains the same, and luckily we are again treated with the occasional Test and Al Snow jibes. As opposed to the first novel, this one is more like a collection of columns, which makes it an easy pickup. Especially enjoyable is the nearly 100-page Epilogue, which is a half-serious study on 'bad' implications of wrestling: sex, drugs, violence and foul language. You cannot help but shake your head in disbelief and laugh out loud at the same time.

If you bought 'Have A Nice Day', you have to get this one. Foley Is That Good.

A Rate Book
Foley did it again with this book. he proved yet again what a great author he is and how well spoken he is. a def must have for any wrestling fan or autobiography fan. ... Read more

Book Description

This enormous, oversize, three-volume reference of performers' television credits (United States) is for serious researchers and writers who cannot afford not to have the most complete information available anywhere. The data begin in 1948, with the advent of serious network television broadcasting, and go through May 31, 2000, the end of the 1999-2000 TV season. Death information is included up to the end of 2000. Included are persons appearing on dramatic and comedy programs, made-for-TV movies and miniseries, game and quiz shows, performance-oriented talk shows and variety shows. For logical reasons, persons who appeared on shows with very little performance activity are excluded (award shows, sporting events, parades, news broadcasts, and reality programming are examples). A performer's birthplace, birth date and date of death are listed (where possible), along with information about his or her best-known television roles, Emmy Awards won, descriptions of memorable career moments, appearances on soap operas, talk, game and variety shows. As a bonus, information is provided on actors' best-known writing, directing and producing credits. ... Read more

Book Description

Detailing both their public and private lives-as well as their many and varied performances-Queens of Comedy examines the impact these women have had on the predominantly male-oriented world of comedy. Performers like Carol Burnett, Joan Rivers, and their more recent counterparts, comediennes Brett Butler and Roseanne, have helped to shift women's roles in comedy from object to subject. This book maps out this shift, providing an often brutally honest picture of women's lives in both the spotlight of comedy and this modern world.
Through candid personal interviews with Lucille Ball, Carol Burnett, and other visionary performers, Queens of Comedy explores how comediennes have redefined the roles of women in not only the entertainment business, but society as a whole. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great intro to comediennes
I used this as a textbook for a film class I taught last year and the class loved it. The book contains solid biographical information and it's really fun to read. Plus, author Horowitz offers some very perceptive insights into women's comedy. My only criticism is that footnotes would have been really helpful because the students wanted to follow up on some of the sources -- but overall I highly recommend it. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Here's to you, Mrs. Robinson...
I bought the book yesterday and can already say that I love it. Anne Robinson sheds the "Host from Hell" image and reveals sensitive and touching stories about her roles as daughter, mother, wife, journalist and pop icon. A must-read for all "Weakest Link" fans. Goodbye!

Delightful!
I always watch "The Weakest Link" here in Europe with sort of a fist in my mouth - how can that woman be so horrible to people, and what an utter delight it is when someone gets one up on her. This biography talks not only about the way in which a truly dedicated woman got to the top of her field, but also about the way in which this "unfit mother" really did turn out to be a wonderful mother, with a wonderful daughter and with a wonderful relationship with said daughter. I suppose that Anne Robinson must be feeling sort of like Boris Karloff these days - he wasn't really Frankenstein's monster, and she isn't really the iron-fisted dominatrix of the television show. I read every word with great pleasure, and I recommend the book to everyone. The reason for four instead of five stars is that there are about three paragraphs in the whole book about "The Weakest Link". I really would have wanted to hear a lot more about the author's thoughts about what is a phenomenal show. Other than that, though, it was a great, great read.

Un-put-downable!
Like me, I think that many mothers have a nagging doubt that they're in some way falling short. In some way - 'unfit'. Ann Robinson's memoirs is an honest description of her own roller-coaster experience of motherhood. It leaves you feeling that if she could go through all that and still create a balanced and happy daughter there is hope for the rest of us!

Weakest Link, She Is Not
In this brisk, mostly no-nonsense book, Ms. Robinson lays out her life like a feature story in the Sunday Times. She paints a witty portrait of her mother (who deserves her own book), a domineering, beautifully dressed, luxury-loving, hard driving businesswoman and a protective overbearing mother. Interestingly, this description fits author Anne like a glove.

In affairs of the heart, Anne calls herself a "belligerent doormat." I loved this phrase! I doubt that many of her long-term love interests would have agreed with the "doormat" part, but she felt/feels she takes to heart every criticism made of her and goes into a passive/aggressive mode. Though she seems very bare bones honest in reporting her emotional entanglements, there are strange gaps. For instance, how in the world did she make her second husband-to-be so angry with her that he testified against her in the custody trial for her daughter?

"Memoirs--" is worth the price if for no other reason than Ms. Robinson's honest and bleak reporting of her crippling alcoholism and how she gradually climbed out of this life-threatening spiral of devastation. And it did ruin her career and almost kill her. Interestingly, Ms. Robinson, though she spares herself very little, is a champion grudge holder. She clearly has never forgiven the court for the judgment that caused her to lose custody of her daughter. Yet at the time, she was a non-functional alcoholic who was totally undependable.

She turned her life around big time, and went on to become a highly successful reporter, radio and TV personality, which I found quite inspiring. I admit I have not yet seen "The Weakest Link," but now cannot wait to see her. I am sure Ms. Robinson can triumph in any and all situations. The book is well written, just what you would expect of a top-flight reporter. She has an excellent, if acerbic, sense of humor that makes her story even more enjoyable.

Refreshing!
I disagree with the Library Review's comment: "Only die-hard fans of Robinson will find this even mildly interesting." I am not a die-hard fan, but I could not put this book down. It is refreshing and even exhilarating to hear someone being honest about their own faults, especially when everyone nowadays wants to be the victim. Robinson does just that, pointing out that obviously her mother contributed to her life in negative ways as in positive ways, but her mother did not make her a drunk and her mother did not get her dry. Anne got to both of those locations herself, and candidly describes each journey. After reading this book, I HAVE found myself to admire this lady and even want to emulate her in many respects. I believe anyone with an open attitude towards her would have to say the same. Evidently the Library Reviewer was already predisposed to disliking Anne Robinson--a bad predisposition for journalists, in my opinion! ... Read more

Book Description

Carol Burnett spent most of her childhood in a Depression-scarred Hollywood neighborhood, where she lived in a single-room apartment with her endearingly batty grandmother, Nanny, a hypochondriacal Christian Scientist with a buried past. The child of two alcoholic parents, Burnett presents a sometimes hilarious, sometimes heartbreaking coming-of-age: from her sadly hopeful mother, who was hooked on Tinseltown fantasy, to the first signs of her own comic gift; from happy weekends spent with her father, to their last tragic meeting in a public sanatorium.

Featuring a new Afterword by the author, about teaming up with her daughter to bring this story to Broadway, One More Time is an intimate, touching, and astonishing narrative of a financially desperate but emotionally rich childhood on the wrong side of Hollywood’s tracks. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

"I'm So Glad We Had This Time Together...."
One of the best celebrity memoirs ever. If anyone ever deserved the success in life that Carol Burnett received, it is she. This little girl, raised in poverty, in a one room apartment, literally steps away from the then- at- its- peak Hollywood Boulevard, a muckle mouthed little dreamer, tended by her cuckoo "Nanny", both parents tragic alcoholics, both of whom did not have a happy ending...This is a fabulous, humble, true success story, about one of the most talented, respected, classy ladies in the history of show-biz. Her telling of her ambition to achieve her dream, in the face of what would have been overwhelming odds to most, is not only incredibly touching, but a lesson in perseverence, and believing in yourself. I tend to write about movies, books, etc.., that are not necessarily "current", and I guess that's because the quality of the originals can't be duplicated, and Carol Burnett is truly one of the "originals." She had and has "the goods." A must read (and read again) about one teriffic lady. ... Read more