Arts and Entertainment Books

Michelle Morgan did an outstanding job writing this book...it is very informative....and true.She did a lot of work on this and needs to be complimented on how she presented it. I recommend this book for all Marilyn Monroe fans...it's one of the best!!

The author seems focused on being fair and as close to the facts as she could possibly get, without applying the generalizations/assumptions common to mainstream gossip. I noticed no negative/disgraceful comments about Marilyn. The lack thereof is what made reading this book a joy. This is a great book! It covers her life from her childhood to her death and has some great photos you don't see printed everywhere.

By: Tommy Garrett

What on earth can be written about Marilyn Monroe that has not already been written, rumored or made up? Well, plenty of great new juicy details, researched by a Marilyn Monroe fan, Michelle Morgan. When I first heard of this book, I simply rolled my eyes. I had spent almost a decade representing Monroe's first husband, Jimmie Dougherty, who lived in Maine at the time. Jimmie was a saint, a wonderful old man who really felt like Monroe had been given a bad name by many in Hollywood and the media alike. He wrote his own book, "To Norma Jeane With Love, Jimmie," by Jim Dougherty, as told to L.C. VanSavage, and it was a bestseller and a warm and comforting tome about his short marriage to the underage Norma Jeane. Jimmie always spoke with love and admiration for Monroe and I heard some never before told stories about the screen goddess.




So to my surprise, when I received the latest Monroe book, "Marilyn Monroe: Private and Undisclosed" by Michelle Morgan, I had to read it. Firstly, Michelle Morgan is the founder and President of the UK fan club, the Marilyn Lives Society, established in 1991. The book was published by the distinguished publishing house Carroll and Graf. So I was interested in reading this voluminous book, filled with never before seen photographs of Monroe in various stages of her life and career and figured that I'd at least have to give it a read. How happy I am that I did.

Many of the more than 150 photographs in this new illustrated biography of Monroe have never been published before. Some of the little known images show a different side of the icon - Monroe doing everyday things, laughing, in conversation, in her unguarded moments. Being a star, every moment is scripted and planned, but Monroe is captured in some of the moments in which she never expected to be photographed.

Michelle Morgan was able to interview almost everyone who knew Marilyn - in addition to her Hollywood and New York colleagues - many family members and friends. Drawing on over 50 different interviews, many who were never willing to go on record before, and many from Monroe's orphaned childhood and early years, the details paint a whole different portrait of the woman who will forever be called Hollywood's hottest and most well known sex goddess. A name she may have worked to achieve, but one her studio, 20th Century Fox, perpetrated to make her bankable in an era where actresses were no longer as glamorous as the era before.

This meticulously researched biography brings new insight into the life of one of Hollywood's most beloved and unforgettable stars. Michelle Morgan's easy yet enticing writing style brings forth a plethora of new details, broadening my once small interest in the sex icon. The read made my interest in the star unending and gave me a fascination with the star I never believed possible.

I had always thought of Monroe as one of the most uninteresting and untalented stars of her era, but now I have a whole new respect for the star and what she was able to do with her career while saddled with demons that most of us can never imagine being burdened with. But Morgan, being one of Monroe's biggest fans, is not only interested in the star but brings forth such a monumental picture of the star we really never knew and makes the reader want to know more. That goal is met by her never boring details of the star and yes, details never seen or read before.

A must read for any Hollywood historian and also for any Marilyn Monroe fan of any and all ages.

Miss Morgan is now working on a wonderful new biography on one of the forgotten stars of the `30s, Carole Lombard. Asked about this, Morgan says, "I have a few irons in the fire at the moment, as they say. I am currently researching a biography of film star Carole Lombard, who tragically died in a plane crash in 1942. There hasn't been a thorough and full biography written about her in quite some time, so I would very much like to fill that gap. I am currently looking for anyone who may have any memories of Carole, along with photos, articles, letters or even second-hand memories passed down through the years. If anyone can help me in this regard I'd love to hear from them: [...] They can also visit my website at [...] Along with that I am also looking to have my book turned into a film, so if there are any film producers out there, I'd love to hear from them!" And says in regards to why she chose to write about Marilyn Monroe, "I've been a fan since I was 15 years old - way back in 1985. I discovered Marilyn while I was on holiday with my family and picked up a book about her as a holiday read. I was very lucky as the book I read was `Norma Jean' by Fred Laurence Guiles, which is a classic Marilyn biography. During that holiday I bought several postcards and posters, and my fascination really took off. From then on, I spent all my pocket and babysitting money on books, videos and pictures. Learning about Marilyn became a passion that has never ceased for me." Lucky for us she's such a fan of every star she writes about.

Lately I have been on a Marilyn Monroe kick. I have been watching her movies and reading about her life. She was an interesting lady, the first of the modern sex symbols, she posed nude in Playboy and was also an accomplished actress (I still think she deserved an Osar for her performance in The misfits!), she also married and had relationships with many famous and powerful men from DiMaggio to President Kennedy. This book is a well written account of her Marilyn"s life I can Highly recommend. And while it s pitched as an unauthorized biography, I think the author does a great job of presenting Marilyn in a fair and sympathetic manner. Marilyn fans also might want to check out Misfits Country for a fictional look behind the scene of her last movie The Misfits

The book easily flies to the top of the list of books about Marilyn Monroe as one of the finest, most thoughtful, comprehensive, well-written and understanding books written. The photos (many never before published) are an outstanding addition to the book, but it is the detailed, sensitive biography which takes the reader steadily through Marilyn's life which is makes it truly priceless.

Obviously this was a labor of love; Michelle Morgan has done a superb job of capturing an enormous amount of detail into one book. Interviews with folks who knew Marilyn (but who are not 'famous' or have an ulterior motive) distinctly add to the in-depth depiction of this extremely talented woman of so many facets.

Ms. Morgan also does a fine job of stating the basic, well-known facts around Marilyn's untimely depth without forcing any theory upon the reader. It's truly wonderful to read a biography which is just that--the story of a person's life--and not a book which relies on sensationalism to 'sell' it. This book gives a sense of Marilyn as woman, actress, wife, friend and sensitive human being. It brings depth into understanding of her relationships with her three husbands, giving the reader a sense of each of Miss Monroe's marriages.

I highly recommend this book to any long-time or brand-new fan of Marilyn's. You won't be disappointed.

WORTH WAITING FOR. CHUCKED FULL OF NEW PICTURES AND TIDBITS THAT WE NEVER READ BEFORE. THE PICTURES OF THE ACTUALL LETTERS HAND WRITTEN BY LITTLE EDIE WERE JUST A WONDERFUL SURPRISE AND DELIGHT. IF YOU ARE A GREY GARDENS FAN, OR FANATIC LIKE ME YOU MUST OWN THIS WONDERFUL TREASURE. SCRAPBOOK IS THE PERFECT WORD. THAT IS WHAT MAKES IT SO UNIQUE AND INTERESTING.

i just loved Memorabealeia,it was nice to get another glimpse of the fabulous Little Edie

I was pleased to discover that Edie's Miami Beach apartment was in a luxury complex (Harbour House) right on the beach! These condos are selling for around half a million dollars! Her condo had a large pool and the beach just beyond-it looks like it was perfect for grabbing "a couple days on the beach". Also fun was to see Edie all decked out in New York city after her move there and all manner of tidbits that fans will enjoy. It looks as though Edie lived the good life after Grey Gardens (did Jackie help?) Thanks for the book Walter!

Loved it! A very interesting memoir for any Grey Gardens fan. The watercolor illustrations are beautiful, I would love to be able to purchase a print of one. As any GG fan has realized, anyone who knew Edie loved her. Walter, so glad you did not sell her letters on ebay! A wonderful book.

Reading about a years long relationship through letters and conversations is a very good way to get to know someone. Edith Beale and Walter Newkirk clearly had a special friendship that continued through her last years. The photos and insight gave me a special appreciation for her personality. A good read.

(Note: Portions of this review have appeared in lesser detail elsewhere.) Simply stated, Richard Rodgers is America's finest composer. In our history, no other composer's music equals the consistent and prolonged quality, innovativeness, range, and sublime beauty of his compositions. Rodgers'exquisite, unforgettable melodies are crafted with such subtle ingenuity and sophistication that they never lose their freshness or their appeal.

Rodgers' musical genius was matched in two legendary partnerhips, the first with lyricist Lorenz Hart, and the second with librettist-lyricist Oscar Hammerstein II. Rodgers' collaboration with these two gifted men elevated and transformed musical theater into a true and distinctive American art form.

There is a knee-jerk tendency by a few so-called musical "experts" to site Gershwin as the greatest American composer. But discerning authorities and audiences know better. The ENTIRE BODY of Richard Rodgers' work stands the test of time better than Gershwin's, or for that matter, better than the music of Berlin, Kern, Porter, and Arlen, all gifted composers.

Rodgers' music is universally admired and respected generation after generation among all kinds of audiences. Few, if any of his compositions sound dated which cannot be said for a significant portion of Gershwin and other composers' music.

Rodgers' music is written so brilliantly that it seems organic, as if nature itself had perfectly strung together a series of notes which sound no less than heavenly, and which seem as if they could not have been structured in any other way. In some of Gershwin's music, particularly "An American in Paris" and "Porgy and Bess", the music seems stilted, grandiose, even pretentious.

You never get that feeling with a Rodgers' composition. His music always has a quality of lightness, fluidity and sponteneity something missing in portions of Gershwin's music. Some of Gershwin's music feels leaden and redundant unlike Rodgers' works.

The breadth of Rodgers' range as a composer was limitless. And no other composer was better than Rodgers in translating character and plot into music. Here is a man who wrote scores perfectly suited to shows as diverse as "Oklahoma", "Pal Joey", "Carousel", "Sound of Music", "Cinderella", "King and I", "No Strings", etc. The list is impressive.

"Musical Stages" offers a detailed account of Rodgers' life and his incomparable career. In it, you will meet Rodgers' two most famous collaborators the undisciplined, gifted, and lovable Lorenz Hart, and the idealistic, eloquent, and reliable Oscar Hammerstein II. Rodgers also reveals behind the scenes stories about Mary Martin, Yul Brynner, Gertrude Lawrence, Julie Andrews, and other luminaries of the musical theater.

This autobiography should be required reading for fans of musical theater and popular music.

I reviewed that book a few years ago,but i feel i could give a better review of it now.Let me be objective here by saying that RICHARD RODGERS was the best AMERICAN composer of the previous century.This book of memoirs gives you a real insight of the music business at the time of mister RODGERS.The anecdotes are very accurate;they show the good and the bad aspects of the music business.RICHARD RODGERS learned early in his career that you are always as good as your last success,and that producers are the kings of BROADWAY.The best example of this is that even with all the hits he had,RICHARD RODGERS never could give ALLEGRO a second chance on BROADWAY.A show that failed is almost never revived again.The man has a lot to say about creativity;the way one must always stand tall even in adversity.One of the most moving passage of the book is the retreat of LORENZ HART and his death at the age of 47.RODGERS certainly knew the value of a partnership.That he could work with both HART and HAMMERSTEIN demonstrates how good he was.Nobody in the history of AMERICAN music has done it better.Out of the 40 shows that he created,10 have become classics of the repertoire.That's quite a feat.If RODGERS was the best,it's simply because he was the most passionnate and the most talented;a perfect combinaison.In my book,there will never be enough revivals of his shows.Buy this,you'll become a fan too,this is guarantee for a lifetime of musical pleasures.

Please read my review preceding this one too. Today is November 4, 2001, and the Emmy Awards have just been telecast on CBS. To close the show, the magnificent Barbra Streisand sang a tribute to the unfailing courage and spirit of the American people whose lives have been inalterably changed by the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

Of all the great American songs which could have been chosen to comfort and hearten the American people, the one Streisand sang was "You'll Never Walk Alone" composed by the incomparable Richard Rodgers from the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, "Carousel". The poetic, inspirational lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II are superbly matched by the sheer eloquence, beauty and emotional power of this soaring ballad. "You'll Never Walk Alone" is one of those songs that once heard, can never ever be forgotten.

Coincidentally, airing opposite the Emmy awards tonight was the PBS special "American Masters, Richard Rodgers: The Sweetest of Sounds" a documentary on the music and career of Richard Rodgers.

In a way, tonight's televised events were a double tribute to a man who was an American genius. He was in my opinion the greatest composer of popular music ever. I venture to say that his entire body of work stands the test of time better than the music of any other great American composer including Gershwin, Berlin, Porter, or Kern, etc.

I don't think that any of these other supremely gifted American composers could have demonstrated the prolonged and consistent brilliance and unbelievable range that Rodgers had. Here is a man who wrote songs as varied and memorable as "Manhattan", "If I Loved You", "Lady is a Tramp", "Edleweiss", "My Romance", "Mountain Greenary", "Mimi", "Hello Young Lovers", "Oklahoma" which incidentally is now the official anthem of the state of "Oklahoma", "My Funny Valentine", "Shall We Dance", "Bewitched", etc., etc.

It seems impossible that one man is reponsible for so many different styles and such a consistently high level of artistry and ingenuity over many decades. And yet Rodgers was.

Rodgers has touched and illuminated audiences generation after generation. He has given people music which is infinitely accessible, yet sublimely crafted. Simply stated, no other composer can equal Rodgers' accomplishments and the impact of his musical legacy.

Since RICHARD RODGERS is my favourite AMERICAN composer ,i could have killed to have that book, and i was not disapointed.One of those few autobiographies that are completely honest.You learn about his family upbringing, his complex relation with LARRY HART,the way he and OSCAR HAMMERSTEIN worked together ,and the way both were affected by the failure of ALLEGRO.You also discover that most movie producers didn't really care about music ,and that RICHARD was glad to go back to BROADWAYin 1935.It is also interesting to read the introduction of his daughter MARY, saying that she likes what other people likes about him:his music, but she also adds of course i loved him.RICHARD RODGERS was probably a very private person, who was in a way forced to live a public life because of his profession.

There are a handful of composers of American popular music whose body of work is revered generation after generation. Kern, Arlen, Gershwin, and Loewe come to mind. But at the top of the list is Richard Rodgers.

In my opinion, Rodgers is the greatest songwriter in the history of Broadway and popular music. His range was simply astonishing. He could write jubilant, folksy music as in "Oklahoma" or jazzy sophisticated tunes as found in "Pal Joey". He could create soaringly romantic melodies such as those in "The King and I" or inspirational and spiritual ballads as presented in "Carousel". Many of his songs have become popular standards as well.

Rodgers adapted brilliantly to a variety of subject matter. And the longevity of his illustrious career is enviable. "Musical Stages" not only chronicles Rodgers' life and work, but it is also an overview of the development and maturation of American musical theater to which Rodgers contributed mightily.

In this autobiography, you will get to know some of the true giants of American popular music in particular Rodgers' two lyricists: the impish, undisciplined, yet lovable genius Lorenz Hart and the wise and idealistic Oscar Hammerstein II. Both of these men wrote many of the best lyrics ever composed for Broadway or popular music.

You'll also meet acting luminaries such as Yul Brynner, Gertrude Lawrence, and Mary Martin among others. "Musical Stages" is a rich addition to any theater and popular music buff's library. Read it with delight!

The Opening Act: The Love Story Of Augie and Margo Rodriguez Augie and Margo dance off the pages of "The Opening Act" through the magic and brilliance of a natural writer. Christine Hamer-Hodges has captured every step of their extraodinary lives with honesty, truth and the beat of lives worth living, worth watching, worth reading about. When I worked as an editor of the Reader's Digest, we had something called "the slush pile" ... a mound of unsolicited manuscripts sent to us by hopeful authors. In all my years at the Digest, I only discovered three writers who rose to the top of that pile ... diamonds sparkling to be published. Here now is a fourth. Christine Hamer-Hodges has taken the written word and wrapped it around an extraordinary event ... the love story of Augie and Margo Rodriguez.

This book was given to me as a gift, but my wife started to read it first and wouldn't give it back to me until she was finished. After reading the book I would have done the same. This book is FANTASTIC! I'm not a dancer and I'm not a frequent reader of books. I never even heard of Augie and Margo. Now I know who they are. Everyone should know who they are. I started reading the book one Sunday morning and couldn't put it down until I was done reading it the same Sunday. The detail in the book is fascinating. There is information in this book that I'm sure hasn't been written before. I hope a Broadway play is made of Augie and Margo's life, with Christine Hamer-Hodges assisting the production team. Hopefully this is "The Opening Act" for Christine Hamer-Hodges.

Hamer-Hodges has done a great job transporting the reader to another place and time. You feel the beat of the music and you are anxious to turn the page. The life of Augie and Margo is not only captivating but engaging to the point you want to see them dance! A must read. I am looking forward to the next book by Ms.Hamer-Hodges.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and devoured it over a few days. I felt what it was like to be there in the 50s, 60s and beyond at the Latin dancing nights at the hot NYC clubs. It was before my time, and I knew it was "a scene," but that's about it. Now I "get it."

This makes a nice companion to Hijuelos' "The Mambo Kings..." But instead of the band's perspective, here you get the dancers' persepctive.

As I read the book, I pictured two movies that could stem from this book. First, the story of Augie and Margo. That's a story anyone -- especially anyone with the dancing bug -- will enjoy. And second, the bittersweet side of Sammy Davis Jr's life, as seen through the eyes of his close friends.

Hamer-Hodges can certainly keep you entertained while you learn about dancers and associated celebrities. This book covered an era of dancing and entertainment that I hardly knew existed, and left me with a thirst and desire for more, more, more. My wife started reading this book first, and I looked forward to reading it myself. She was too slow in completing it though, so I started reading the book whenever she put it down. It was hard for me to let her have it back, and I was so involved with the story that I finished it well before her. The one thing that was missing was being able to see Augie and Margo perform in those early years. [...]. Get the book, read it, and then watch them dance.

Tony Gold weaves together the ongoing stories of Osbourne family. Between the pages of this book, you will find a comprehensive history of the Osbourne family and their most recent experiences before 2003. The book includes a nice photo collection and it is a joy to read. Along with Gold's other Osborne's book, "Officially Osbourne" and the DVD series, you will have a keepsake of entertainment,insight and a broader understanding of the phenomenal family. As time goes by, I believe we will all come to appreciate them, Ozzy, of course, Sharon, Kelly and Jack, more, as they move on to new and varied enterprises.

I loved this book. When you watch the show you get an edited version of the family so it is nice to have something that gives you true insight. I especially loved that Aimee put her views in. I really think Sharon is dynamic and an inspiration to all women. There was a part that I think about daily, Sharon said that in America its more acceptable to be a drug addict than to be fat. If I could pick one family to have dinner with this would be my choice thanks to this book!

I read this book in English Class and I think it's a great book for any one who just wants to know more about the whole family, there are things in this book u would have never thought could happen to the family but it did. THIS BOOK NOT ONLY TALKS ABOUT THE fAMILY BUT ALSO Ozzy and his Wifes life before they had Kids and how ozzy became so great!

BUY IT!

I am soooooo happy that I opted to purchase this book. Not only was the story fascinating and at times sad, it gave me a huge perspective on Ozzy's behavior and what makes him tick. The photo bonus in the middle of the book is a true treasure. It was so good, I read the whole thing from cover to cover in less than 3 hours! Definitely worth every penny spent!

I bought and read this book and was quite amazed about the honesty and the love this family shares for one another. I give Sharon a lot of credit on what she has been put through in her marriage to Ozzy. She is an amazingly strong person that is dedicated and truly loves her family. Ozzy has survived such difficulties with drugs and drinking. Thank God he is still with us today to create the great music that he does. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who wants to read about a "real" family behind the scenes.

I still take this book out from our huge home library -- sorry, we have a lot of books -- to look at Kris'paintings and the subtle words that tell about her life.

Ricky was my first love. I was seven years old when I first heard him sing "Travellin' Man" and the family meant so much to me as a child. I know they weren't real now, and Rick and Kris' children are all grown and Ozzie and Harriet are long gone. But... Is Kris still painting? Where are you, Kris? Remember Saint Martin of Tours in Brentwood?

This book was received as a gift, after reading it I just could not put it down. It's true interest from start to finish, Kris did a great job with this book with alot of talent and love!

I recommend any Rick Nelson fan, get a copy and enjoy!!

There was a time when all of us and our mothers too were in love with Rick Nelson. But the one most in love with him was Kris Harmon, who became his wife in April 1963. She wrote a book about this life, and it is a book from which everyone can learn -- from her example, her words, and her artwork.

Rick Nelson brought rock music into the living rooms of America and made it acceptable. He was the teen idol of a generation - the Prince of Rock and Roll in the days when Elvis was the King. I am appalled that the kid at Starbuck's doesn't know who Rick Nelson is today.

Rick's fans have always criticized Kris for reasons I only partially understand. (Remember, they weren't wild about Yoko either.) For instance, Kris had a temper; Rick did not. His fans criticized her when she was with him on the road and when she was not. Kris and the kids always had to compete with the fans and his band for his attention. Rick liked being a father, but he was not home very often.

In 1981, she left the marriage and Rick reluctantly. Rick's sudden death in an airplane crash in December 1985 shocked the nation and left many people in addition to his family bereft for a long time. I attended a Tribute to him in 1993 in L.A. and was surprised at the number of people from all over the world who grieved his death as a personal loss.

In 1987, Kris was accused by her family of being an unfit mother at the time she sought treatment for pill and alcohol addiction. This is, unfortunately, a reason that keeps many women from seeking treatment when they need it. Asking for help takes courage; getting help means one will be a better mother. To be punished for it enrages me still. She discusses this time in her life without sparing the hurt.

The book has over 100 of her paintings in it and many poems. Some reviewers have called it a daybook, or journal, not a traditional autobiography. It is a memoir in the true meaning of the word -she has elevated her personal story to a more universal level.

When asked in an interview once how she feels about Rick now, she said something like, "I miss him. He was funny. We were friends and had fun. And I still miss him." After all those years of fights in court, the truth emerges.

Kris is building an extraordinary legacy. It is clear that she finds solace and salvation in her artwork and in New Mexico. She is, for the first time, being recognized as herself, not the daughter of someone famous, or the wife of someone famous, or the mother of someone famous - but for herself. And it is clear that she has learned that death ends a life, but not a relationship.

I always loved The Adventures of Ozzie & Harriet, especially when Kristin joined the cast in later years. This book is Kris's autobiography, a personal glimpse into her life and soul, and an in-depth look at the woman behind the actress on TV. A very gifted artist, Kris expresses herself through her paintings. I marveled at the detail in each work of art, examining each one and identifying the people and elements within. Also present are excerpts from her personal journal and poetry, many filled with sadness and poignancy reflecting Kris's struggles throughout her life. This book is largely a celebration, however, of the life of a very gifted artist. I hope Kris writes another book one day.

After watching a presentation about Rick Nelson's career on VH1, I was uncomfortable with the portrayal of Kristin Nelson. Curious about her, I purchased a copy of, "Our Of My Mind." What an interesting book! Through the use of her paintings, poems, photographs, and diary entries, she recalls her life.
A victor over her personal struggles, a successful single mother, and a talented artist, one can only admire her.

As previously said, this is a very well and beautifully writen errr... memoir. The cover tells you the whole story of what to expect inside. At first glance Alec dancing appears as a comical figure almost, but as you look closer you can see he is in some sort of agony. And as the book moves on, it is hard for him to not show his melancholy.
Despite being a bit of a emotional downer, this is still a very worthwhile read for any of his fans.

The journal of an extraordinary gentleman, one of the greatest actors ever to grace stage or screen. His reflections on his career are moving and perceptive, totally lacking in self-aggrandisement. His thoughts on the whole "Star Wars" phenomenon are particularly witty but smack of the desperation of being hounded by that film's fans. It's tragic that this great man may only be remembered by modern generations for his appearance in that opus instead of for his work in the Ealing comedies, "The Bridge on the River Kwai", his lengthy stage career and his magnificent turn on TV as George Smiley.

Alec Guinness is undeniably one of the most gifted actors of our times, and now, with his offering of "A Positively Final Appearance," we get to know something of the man behind the mask. This journal, kept between the summer of `96, and 1998, is chock full of insightful musings, reminiscences and anecdotes that are a delight. He shares his love of the theater, discussing many of the plays he attended during this period, and gives comments on recent movies, as well. An avid reader, he talks enthusiastically of favorite authors and books; his love of literature is unmistakable. The stage is his first love, however, and he speaks fondly, and frankly, of many of the plays he's done, and of his experiences with many of the actors and directors with whom he has had the privilege of working. He invites you into his private life, discussing the love of his life, Merula, and discoursing on their life at home, as well as their many travels. You learn what the greatest regret of his life is, who some of the people are he admires most, and a few of whom he could do without. He explains his negative attitude toward the "Star Wars" phenomenon, and addresses many of the events, large and small, that have in some way affected his life, and helped mold his perspectives. His concern over world events and the human condition is poignantly evident. Guinness writes so fluently, you can almost hear that distinct, familiar voice; you seem to be listening, rather than reading. There is a dignity and charm to his words that reveal, to some degree, the man behind them. That he values his privacy is apparent, and it becomes very clear that he is not the most accessible person, yet without any rancor; he holds his fans in high esteem, but there is a sincere humility to the man, who simply doesn't feel worthy of all the fuss. In a world seemingly rife with crass sensationalism and indifference, "A Positively Final Appearance" is like a tonic to the soul; it is so refreshing to discover that somewhere elegance and refinement still exist. My positively, final word on this book is that it is a joy, and should not be missed.

I picked up this book because I like Alec Guinness' work in "Lawrence of Arabia" and his other David Lean films (not because of "Star Wars" which I can take or leave). To be honest, I was worried it might be kind of boring.

Well, it was not boring -- it was delightful. The man was full of many profound observations about life that he communicated by writing about everyday things such as the birds in his yard or the weather. His vivid memories of his stage career and the people he knew were vastly entertaining. I was surprised to find him to be a humble, not-too-well-off everyday kind of man, not some fabulously rich egomaniac as I had supposed him to be.

Even though I could not be more different from him politically, I still enjoyed reading his views on politics. It was like talking to a dapper, well-bred older gentleman you bumped into on the street. His writing was assertive, yet polite and genteel.

If you miss reading this book, you've missed a simple pleasure that will make you smile. It's worth buying!

The late Sir Alec Guinness was a lovely writer, and with this, his final memoir, he improved vastly over his previous gift to us, MY NAME ESCAPES ME. Whereas the latter was strictly a selection from his diary, with this Guinness moves beautifully from journalistic descriptions of day-to-day events (from eye surgery to walks with his wife, Merula, to the indignities of moving slowly in an ever fast-paced and impolite world) and wry reflections on current events to anecdotes spanning his entire career in theatre and film. Each chapter is arranged by a theme, mostly seasonal, but they meander charmingly.

Those interested in his encounter with the church and his beginnings as an artist should find his autobiography, BLESSINGS IN DISGUISE. Those who might want reflections on STAR WARS will be disappointed. When one gentleman asked Guinness for an autograph from Ben Kenobi immediately after mass, Guinness admonished him, "Not in front of the parishioners!" and disappeared as nimbly as a young Jedi.

I just received this book in the mail, and i have only one word for it - Stunning.

This book is full of beautiful photos and sketches of original costumes, and there's a wealth of written information to go with the pretty pictures!
Even the presentation is lovely, i'm really impressed with the matte pink binding - it'll look great in my book case ;)

Go ahead and order this book, you won't be disappointed.

the book is very dazzling ,and it would be my ture love for the passed Age.

If the book title sounds familiar, it's because Liz Goldwyn's HBO documentary of the same name aired in July 2005 to much acclaim, covering the history of American burlesque. If you think you've seen it all in the show, think again: the book holds much more! Here are personal stories, career overviews, and biographies of some of the most talented genre stars. Burlesque history comes alive here as in no other collection, making PRETTY THINGS a 'must' for any holding strong in American arts history, from general-interest to college-level libraries.

An enlightening look at a largely misunderstood/misinterpreted art form, this book combines rigorous scholarship, engaging narrative, rare photos, and well-executed design. Liz Goldwyn's love of the subject matter is clear and infectious. Highly recommended, as is the author's HBO special of the same name.

An artistic design layout provides the reader with lots of photos and scrapbook pages of original costume sketches, fabric swatches, letters, postcards, and lots more. This visual collage is a wonderful piece of film toward understanding the life these women lived. Their attitude and sex appeal as we know it only disguised the reality of their life, tough working conditions and a career contingent of youth and beauty eventually leading these women to fall on hard times and in the end forgotten.

THIS BOOK IS ABOUT LEGENDARY FILM MAKER ROGER CORMAN. HE IS KNOWN FOR MAKING FILMS AS QUICK AND CHEAP AS HE COULD. MANY OF THESE ARE CULT FAVORITES SUCH AS LITTLE SHOP, GIANT LEECHES AND MANY MORE. I HAVE SPENT MANY A FRIDAY NIGHT AND SATURDAY AFTERNOON WATCHING THESE "CLASSICS". ROGER CORMAN IS KNOWN FOR MAKING CHEAP BUT INTERESTING AND SOMETIMES HILARIOUS B MOVIES. THE BOOK GOES BEHIND THE SCENES AS THE AUTHOR INTERVIEWS MANY FORMER EMPLOYEES WHO HAVE WORKED FOR CORMAN AND HAVE INTERJECTED THEIR VIEWS AND OPINIONS ON CORMAN. ROGER IS ALSO KNOWN FOR GIVING MANY STARS THEIR START. CORMAN IS ALSO A COMPLEX GUY WHO CAN BE VERY GENEROUS AND CAN ALSO BE AS CHEAP AS THEY COME. SOMETIMES MOOD BUT ALWAYS LOOKING TO MAKE ANOTHER MOVIE. I REALLY ENJOYED THIS BOOK AND I RECOMMEND IT FOR ALL FANS OF KING OF THE B'S AND WHO APPRECIATE BRILLIANCE ON A BUDGET.

Wow! Talk about switching personalities! This amazing biographer can emit the style of the person she is writing about to really give you a flavor of the personality. And of course, she spent time working for him, so you are privy to more of a view. Written somewhat bruskly like Roger's personality, you really gain insight into his life and what made him the person he is. Contrast this book with Beverly's biography of Ron Howard and you see some of the exceptional talent of this lady. A great read!

(...)

Gray's biography--fun as it is-- is more than a story about a man who is arguably one of Hollywood's most idiosyncratic moguls. It is a chronicle that parallels that of The Great Depression, World War II, the growth of the film industry and Los Angeles itself. We meet again celebrities we haven't thought about in years like the adorable dimpled Jon Davison, the memorable Vincent Price and even run across pop culture icons like Frank Gorshin.

Occasionally this book is burdened with glitz-town detail that only a dedicated film buff might adore but these moments are rare. Like a super hero, Corman--now 75 and still going--is resilient because he is multi-faceted. The same can be said for screenwriter cum UCLA instructor and journalist Beverly Gray. The two seem admirably paired in that way. Gray uses her many experiences and talents to tell the story of a man of many parts.
(...)

This fascinating "biography" is really a savvy "how to" book that belongs on the shelf of every screenwriter, aspiring producer, director, and development executive -- and everyone else who loves films and craves to know the secrets of Hollywood's most colorful mogul.

I found it fun to read as a realistic "behind the scenes" glimpse of what it takes to be a profitable mogul, such as the way Corman hired young cheap "promising" talent instead of going for experience. Directors fresh out of film school reading this book, for example, can get a good feel for the mindset and financial situation of producers they interview with. Screenwriters will learn how Corman and team (Gray had been his development executive) managed to write and produce so many successful films quickly.

Few books reveal the inner machinations of a successful producer so intimately. Gray, a screenwriting teacher at UCLA, has done a spectacular job of showcasing the life story of an intruiging man through more than eighty interviews and via her own experience.

I have to agree with the other five-star reviews. "Roger Corman: Blood-Sucking Vampires, Flesh-Eating Cockroaches, and Driller Killers" is the best book on the subject, the subject being the most unique American studio head in film history.

Beverly Gray really paints a nuanced picture of Corman and never panders to the fans, the haters, or her old boss Corman himself. Though it's impossible to pull back the curtains entirely and see into a man's soul, Gray seems to have at least pulled back one side, giving us as much a glimpse as is possible without telepathy.

Storywise, Corman is, as always, fascinating, and Gray's perfectly detailed retelling of his story is the best yet written.

Out of maybe a few hundred, this is probably the funniest book I have ever read. I remember reading it late at night in my parents house, trying to stifle my laughter so I wouldn't get in trouble for waking people up. "...a cry went up from the sleaze-mavens"

With this book, you could argue that John Waters is a better writer than he is a film maker.

This book is impossible to describe in one word. It's no surprise that Water's life is funnier, and more bizare then any of his films can ever hope to be. We learn about Baltimore life, his childhood, Divine, Edith Masey, Pink Flamingos,Desperate Living,and more. THIS needs to be his next film project! The only thing sad about this book is that it feels dated at certain parts (especially when it refers to Divine in the present tense, since this was written before he died...and before Cookie Muller died...and Edith Masey). But it remains a fascinating read that really encourages people to feel grateful for living in Baltimore(or makes you wish you lived there).

Shock Value is like Waters' autobiography, mainly focused on his film career. There are only two chapters about his childhood. The book will be very interesting to every Waters fan as it provides in depth looks at the making of several of his earlier films. The book's material is dated, however, since it was written before he completed "Polyester". Waters' updates you in the new introduction though. It is very clean and has few curse words, unlike Waters' films, but is still good. I recommend it.

This book was without a doubt the funniest book I've ever read. Naturally, readers familiar with his movies will get the most out of this book, but there's a lot in there even for those who can't sit through one of his movies. I especially like Waters's tales of his mischief as a lad attending Catholic school. Considering the time, his educational background, and the Baltimore environment, I can really understand how Waters turned out the way he did.

I finished Shock Value only moments ago, and i feel like i should go to baltimore and fall on my knees worshipping Waters and the crew. i thought i was weird...This book focuses on the early years and has truly inspired me to raise myself above the boring muck of semiconformist existence. READ IT