Individual actors Books
HarperCollins Focus El Latin Hit Maker
Book Synopsis
£12.34
Penguin Books Ltd We Need to Talk About . . . Kevin Bridges
Book SynopsisThe comic autobiography of 2014 A comedian''s autobiography? I wonder if he''s ever used humour to deflect from his insecurities? To avoid being bullied? Is there heartache behind the humour? I wonder if he''s a manic-depressive? Tears of a clown? Yes, all of that. Discover the hilarious life-story of one of Britain''s best-loved comedians in Kevin Bridges'' brilliant memoir. ''First of all, I have never written a book before, you probably haven''t either, so there we have it; a connection is established between reader and writer . . .'' Aged just 17, Kevin Bridges walked on stage for the first time in a Glasgow comedy club and brought the house down. He only had a five-minute set but in that short time he discovered that he really could earn a living from making people laugh. Kevin began life as a shy, nerve-ridden school-boy, whose weekTrade ReviewKevin Bridges might just become the best stand-up in the land . . . he will go and deliver a one-liner that you want to jot down and frame * The Times *The Best Scottish Stand up of his Generation. * The Scotsman *A wonderfully dry and deadpan Glaswegian comic . . . one the most exciting talents to have emerged from Scotland since Billy Connolly * Guardian *Wonderfully sharp, assured stand-up from the preternaturally gifted young comic * Independent *Scotland's young comedy prodigy * Guardian *
£11.69
Penguin Books Ltd More Fool Me
Book SynopsisIn his early thirties, Stephen Fry - writer, comedian, star of stage and screen - had, as they say, ''made it''.What could possibly go wrong?As the 80s drew to a close, he discovered a most enjoyable way to burn the candle at both ends, and took to excess like a duck to breadcrumbs. Writing and recording by day, and haunting a never ending series of celebrity parties, drinking dens, and poker games by night, he fooled all those except the very closest to him.He was - to all intents and purposes - a high functioning addict - he was so busy, so distracted by the high life, that he could hardly see the inevitable, headlong tumble that must surely follow . . .Containing raw, electric extracts from his diaries of the time, More Fool Me is a brilliant, eloquent account by a man driven to create and to entertain - revealing a side to him he has long kept hidden.
£17.99
Penguin Books Ltd Alanatomy
Book Synopsis***If you loved Alan''s first memoir - Look Who It Is! - then his follow-up, Alanatomy, will take you further into the hilarious and bizarre world of the country''s favourite chatty man.***''As laugh out loud as his TV shows'' Daily MirrorIt must seem strange to you that I''ve called a book Alanatomy . . . For anyone who has taken the time to see my stand-up performances or watched my chat show, ''Chattyman'', knows that my body has hardly been kind to me - in fact there''ve been times when we''ve actually stopped talking to each other. Balding, myopic, often flaky with psoriasis, back fat that hangs suspended like a cape, a voice that could strip varnish, an increasingly dodgy hip and even dodgier teeth. Why would you draw attention to it? you must ask. Couldn''t you just call the book something else? Do you think the Great British Public is ready to pore over your body? Well, as I turn forty and take stock oTrade ReviewIf you loved Alan's first memoir - Look Who It Is! - then this follow-up, Alanatomy, will take you further into the hilarious and bizarre world of the country's favourite chatty man. * from the publisher's description *It's as winning as you'd expect from the chatty, heart-on-sleeve Carr * Sunday Express *As laugh out loud as his TV shows * Daily Mirror *If you loved Alan's first memoir - Look Who It Is! - then this follow-up, Alanatomy, will take you further into the hilarious and bizarre world of the country's favourite chatty man. * from the publisher's description *As laugh out loud as his TV shows * Heat *Praise for Look Who It is! by Alan Carr * Daily Mirror *Joyous stuff that most of us can relate to without it sounding clichéd, and it is delivered effortlessly by a comedian who owns the space he is working in so much, he could put up a flag * The Independent *Carr's comic timing works every bit as well on the page as it does on stage, making this easily the funniest book of the year * Heat *Sharp, sassy material with pitch perfect comic timing * The List *Bellyachingly funny * The Sunday Telegraph *
£10.44
Penguin Books Ltd Believe Me
Book SynopsisGet to know a national icon in Eddie Izzard''s hilarious and dazzling autobiography''Comic genius . . . Entertainment incarnate'' Telegraph______Star of stage and screen. Tireless supporter of charity. Marathon runner. Political campaigner.Fashion icon. Human.There is no one quite like Eddie Izzard. This is the story of how she broke through.Her relentless optimism has led her to always do things her own way, even if it didn''t work the first time, and her incredible self-belief has pushed her to keep on trying, even if it didn''t work the second or third time either.Whether she was putting on teddy bear shows on boarding school beds or swordfighting on the streets of London, Eddie never stopped trying to achieve her dreams of becoming a performer.Brimming with her distinctively surreal humour and disarming candour, Believe Me tells the story of a person who never took no for an answer.___Trade ReviewKing of the Universe . . . Comic genius . . . Entertainment incarnate * Telegraph *Izzard is Wikipedia in heels. He's made his career out of hilarious, dizzying, surreal routines held up by their own daft logic . . . A force of nature * Radio Times *A comedy gem * Guardian *Izzard has a knack for reducing centuries' worth of history to just a few exquisite words (the Romans were just 'fascist plumbers', for example) * Time Out *The funniest man in England -- John CleeseThe funniest man in, well, pretty much all of the known universe * Los Angeles Times *A consistent intelligence underpins Izzard's whimsy * Chortle *
£11.69
W F Howes Ltd Sir Michael Caine The Biography
Book Synopsis
£26.87
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Stanislavski An Introduction
Book SynopsisThe Stanislavski system is still the only comprehensive method of actor training we posses. This text traces the growth of the system from its roots in the tradition of Russian realism, and charts the various phases it went through until the final emergence of the Method of Physical Action.
£16.14
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Stanislavski And The Actor
Book SynopsisBetween 1935 and 1938, Stanislavski did his final work in Moscow with a group of 11 young actors and directors trained in his special system. This volume contains a full translation of verbatim transcriptions of Stanislavski's notes and practical exercises from these sessions.
£17.09
Bloomsbury Publishing (UK) Stanislavski In Rehearsal Performance Books
Book Synopsis Jean Benedetti (translator) is a leading authority on Stanislavski. A former Principal of Rose Bruford College, his publications, Stanislavski and the Actor, The Moscow Art Theatre Letters, Stanislavski A Life in Art, The Art of the Actor, and two new Stanislavski translations, An Actors Work on Himself Parts 1 & 2, and My Life in Art.
£23.99
Bloomsbury Publishing (UK) Writing Comedy by Byrne John Author ON
Book SynopsisJohn Byrne has over 25 years' experience as a working comedy writer, cartoonist and broadcaster. He is also The Stage newspaper's Entertainment Industry Career Advisor and, in addition to answering queries in his popular 'Dear John' column, has published over 40 books, many of them performance and comedy-related for adults and children.Trade ReviewJohn Byrne is the guru when it comes to advice on building a successful comedy career. Unlike many advisors, he's been there and done it himself. He knows the joys and sorrows of the comedy world and is best placed to help budding comedians make the most of their talent. * Jasmine Birtles, financial journalist, author, columnist for Independent *This is a book every comedy writer will come to value. * Ken Rock, founder member of the British Society of Comedy Writers *
£23.74
Bloomsbury Publishing (UK) John Gielgud Matinee Idol to Movie Star Biography and Autobiography
Book SynopsisJonathan Croall is the author of Buzz Buzz: Playwrights, Actors and Directors at the National Theatre. He worked as features editor on the Times Educational Supplement and as editor of Arts Express magazine, the National Theatre's magazine StageWrite, and programmes at the Old Vic.Trade ReviewHis public loved him, and so does the author of this thoroughly readable biography. * New Statesman *John Gielgud's life makes such a good story...the book is a significant reminder of a silken-voiced, altogether singular talent. * Sunday Times *An authoritative, nicely balanced account of both Gielgud's public and private lives... Croall also emphasizes what an important, modernizing figure he was as a director... This is by no means an uncritical biography of Gielgud - Croall illustrates his character defects of snobbery, tactlessness...and impatience...but overall he comes across as an attractively modest man with a mischievous sense of humour, possessing an evergreen enthusiasm for and deep understanding of theatre. This book does full justice to a protean performer who bestrode the stage like a Colossus. * Exeunt *The work of a stage actor, however great, is writ on water...It was for his theatrical work that Kenneth Tynan (who, mind you, preferred Laurence Olivier) could refer to [Gielgud] as 'not an actor, but the actor.'...So, whatever the limitations of merely reading about a magnificent actor, it is gratifying to have such a well-researched and fluently written, committed yet not adulatory biography...[Gielgud] emerges as a witty, charming, conversationally apt human being. (refers to the previously released edition) * New York Times *(A) tremendous biography...the result of a great deal more material which had become available to the biographer -- mostly letters, but also people more willing to speak openly. (The contents) illuminate not only the man himself but also the great changes that have taken place in social and legal attitudes in the past half-century. This is a splendid book, impressively researched and extremely readable. * Harriet Devine's Blog *Elegantly written...scented with the aroma of fresh revelations...riveting. * Independent *As entertaining and full of variety as the subject himself * Oldie Magazine *I really enjoyed reading it. In fact it's marvellous - and best of all FACTUAL! That's something of a rarity these days. * Peter Hall *I am so grateful for the close scrutiny you give the performances: their context, their aspiration, their achievement. It's compelling, grown-up analysis. * Simon Callow *If what you want from the genre of showbiz biography is sleaze or sycophancy, you'll have to look elsewhere. What is on offer here is something else. Croall manages the difficult balancing act of maintaining a discreet distance from his subject while at the same time seeming to have immersed himself in that subject's complexity. * Inside Story *An unexpectedly enjoyable book to read... I found Croall a good navigator through the curious narrative of Gielgud's life...Croall manages to round out his portrait with nuance, new information and a gusto that drives the narrative... the larger story of a man with a mercurial talent, utterly committed to his craft, alive to instinct and nuance with a magical quota of talent, is well told. * The New Zealand Herald *By the end of Jonathan Croall's massive homage to Sir John Gielgud, the great actor seems like an old friend... This meticulously researched book can be read as more than merely a biography of a single man, since it is wide-ranging enough to place his life in the context of theatre across the 20th century. Readers are therefore able to learn much about trends in drama throughout Gielgud's lifetime. Sir John Gielgud was a man of the theatre the like of whom we may never see again. Therefore, the ever-readable Jonathan Croall should be warmly congratulated on researching and writing what must surely be the definitive biography. * British Theatre Guide *A glorious tome. * Ronald Harwood *Jonathan Croall's book gives an authentic flavour of the real Gielgud. * Richard Eyre *Both the career and the man are brought to brilliant life...Jonathan Croall stakes a serious claim to be the most notable theatrical biographer of the day. -- Brian McFarlane * Australian Book Review *John Gielgud was all light and humour, the most mercurial of men, and the most poetic of actors: Jonathan Croall is perfectly tuned in to every one of his qualities. * David Hare *A huge new overview that will surely become definitive. * New Statesman *A magnificent book – a model of meticulous research and sympathy with the subject. * Derek Parker, writer and broadcaster *
£26.99
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Physical Expression on Stage and Screen Using the
Book SynopsisBill Connington has devoted his career to helping performersincluding Broadway actors, Metropolitan Opera singers, and renowned instrumentalistsmanage their art through managing themselves. The former chairman of the board of the American Center for the Alexander Technique, Bill is currently a lecturer in acting at the Yale School of Drama and has taught performers at NYU's Tisch School of the Arts, the Juilliard School, and the Actors Studio MFA Program.Trade ReviewA clear, detailed, and practical account of how the Alexander Technique can help liberate performers from habitual psychophysical tensions, allowing them to access the deepest and most creative impulses in their work. * Walton Wilson, Chair, Department of Acting, and Head of Voice and Speech, Yale School of Drama *In small, doable steps, Bill guides the actor toward a healthy, creative life as a performer—always with a supportive, encouraging tone and attention to process as opposed to results. * Kim Jessor, faculty, Tisch School of the Arts at the New York University Graduate Acting Program *Bill Connington writes with insight, clarity, and flair about a subject he loves and shares his valuable perspective on the training of actors by exploring the all-important connection between body, mind, and spirit. In a voice both friendly and knowledgeable, Physical Expression on Stage and Screen guides the actor from class to rehearsal to performance. * Jessica Wolf, Assistant Professor, Yale School of Drama; director of 'Jessica Wolf’s Art of Breathing' *Physical Expression on Stage and Screen provides new insight into the Alexander technique, which was pioneered by F. M. Alexander in the late 1800s … The best part of the book is the exercises (more than 100) that help actors explore their unique styles. Many of the exercises are also supported by free online videos created by the author. This no-nonsense explanation of the Alexander technique is accessible to untrained students and a good refresher for those knowledgeable about acting. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Lower-division undergraduates through faculty and professionals -- E. C. Skiles, Lone Star College-Kingwood * CHOICE *Table of ContentsA Note on the Exercises Introduction PART ONE Preparing Yourself Chapter 1 The Alexander Technique and Theater Training Chapter 2 Sensory Awareness Chapter 3 Poise, Flow, and Choice Chapter 4 The Use of Your Self Chapter 5 Changing Your Mind-Body Chapter 6 Breathing PART TWO Organic Expression Chapter 7 Using Your Imagination Chapter 8 Conscious Imitation of Others Chapter 9 Using Voice and Movement to Stimulate the Mind-Body PART THREE Putting It All Together Chapter 10 Auditions, Rehearsals, and Performances Chapter 11 Your Psycho-Physical Health and Choice Textual References Acknowledgments Index Exercise Videos Contact
£23.74
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Anatomy of Performance Training
Book SynopsisJohn Matthews is Programme Leader of BA (Hons) Acting at Theatre Royal Plymouth. He has written two books published by Bloomsbury Methuen Drama: Training for Performance (2011) and Anatomy of Performance Training (2014).Trade ReviewExtending his Training for Performance (2011), the author unpacks his thesis that the act of training is a human endeavor that everyone does because everyone is limited by “having a body.” The stories frame ethnographical, political, social, and psychological constructs to unlock aspects of the performer’s anatomy … the book is an intriguing contribution to performance studies. Summing Up: Recommended. Graduate students, researchers, faculty, professionals. -- J. Artman, Chapman University * CHOICE *Matthews offers an insightful, engaging, and imaginative read that urgently questions the place of training, and its attendant implications and values, in the twenty-first-century theatremaking context. -- Julie Rada, University of Utah, USA * Theatre Topics *Table of ContentsAnatomy Hand Foot Mouth Ear Heart A Body of Work
£36.09
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Acting Stanislavski
Book SynopsisStanislavski was the first to outline a systematic approach for using our experience, imagination and observation to create truthful acting. 150 years after his birth, his approach is more widely embraced and taught throughout the world but is still often rejected, misunderstood and misapplied.In Acting Stanislavski, John Gillett offers a clear, accessible and comprehensive account of the Stanislavski approach, from the actor's training to final performance, exploring: ease and focus the nature of action, interaction and objectives the imaginary reality, senses and feeling active analysis of text physical and vocal expression of character the actor in the context of training and the industry.Drawing on Stanislavski's major books, in both English translations, and on records of his directing process and final studio classes, Acting Stanislavski demystifies terms and concepts. It is for actors from an actor's point of view, and offers many practical exeTrade ReviewA manual full of enabling, easing exercises – it will enable you to analyse any scene. The cry of the actor at sea, 'I don't know what I'm doing,' should, with this book, become a thing of the past. * Sam West, Actor and Director *This is probably the single most useful and powerfully presented summation of Stanislavski’s approach to acting available ... What sets this book apart from other recent studies is that the Stanislavskian approach has been filtered through a lifetime of practice – the‘concentrate’ that emerges is crystal clear, an explication of the ‘system’ which makes absolute practical sense for the actor ... The primary strength and authority of this book is derived from the single fact that he is an actor addressing other actors with the impassioned objective of encouraging them to take responsibility for their own art and to have ‘respect’ for what they do. -- Julian Jones * New Theatre Quarterly *I'd recommend this book to anyone wanting an introduction to Stanislavksi or Michael Chekhov or acting in general. * Matt Peover, LAMDA trainer and theatre director. *Contains all the important things that need to be said about learning to act . . . in an extremely logical and sensible manner * Simon Dunmore, Editor, Actors Yearbook *It sets the record straight in terms of what Stanislavski was actually about. Its invaluable. * Marina Caldarone, co-author 'ACTIONS, The Actor’s Thesaurus' *This is an excellent book – one of the best of its kind that I have read. John Gillett’s book is way out in front in that it offers both scholarship and really sound practical strategies * Annie Tyson, acting tutor at RADA and Drama Centre *If an actor was to have just one book on the process of acting on their shelf it should be this one * Edda Sharpe, co-author of 'How To Do Accents' *[Acting Stanislavski] feels significantly more substantial, more comprehensive, and clearer than other recent studies of Stanislavski … While this book is a fantastically expansive introduction for the uninitiated, it will also provide real nourishment and clarity for the many actors who have studied bits of Stanislavski here and there and are looking for something more comprehensive. Or one could simply dip into the book for some fresh studio exercises to use in the classroom … This balance between the practical and scholarly, as well as the book’s sensible, logical structure, would make it a great course book for the more technically-minded and historically-curious of acting students, while its glossary and index make it one the best reference books about acting on the market … A deep, authentic, and mature love of the theatre shines throughout the writing. This is the clearest, most comprehensive, and most ambitious book on Stanislavski in existence, from a writer who clearly has a lifetime’s experience of dedicated exploration as an actor, teacher, and director. * Journal of Dramatic Theory and Criticism *Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Foreword, by Sam West Introduction – acting in context PART ONE STARTING FROM NOTHING Chapter 1 Awareness Chapter 2 Ease and focus PART TWO IMAGINATION AND ACTION – CREATING THE FOUNDATIONS Chapter 3 Acting in circumstances Chapter 4 Acting with others Chapter 5 What do I want? PART THREE DEVELOPING THE IMAGINARY REALITY – IMAGES, SENSING, FEELING Chapter 6 Imagining the action Chapter 7 Sensing Chapter 8 Feeling Chapter 9 Atmosphere PART FOUR EXPLORING TEXT AND CHARACTER Chapter 10 Meeting the play Chapter 11 Meeting the character PART FIVE CREATING THE LIFE OF THE ROLE Chapter 12 Discovering the action – active analysis Chapter 13 Embodiment – physical expression of the character Chapter 14 Refining the role Chapter 15 The character PART SIX BEYOND THE ROLE Chapter 16 Acting ethics Chapter 17 Working together Chapter 18 An open conclusion A map of the organic acting process Glossary Selected bibliography Index
£23.74
Little, Brown Book Group Playing Under the Piano Comedy gold Sunday Times
Book SynopsisA Times and Sunday Times Book of the Year''Delicious and endearing'' Observer''Comedy gold'' Sunday Times ''A riveting account of what it takes to be an actor'' Christina Patterson''A writer of considerable urbanity and wit'' Lynn Barber, Daily TelegraphHugh Bonneville is one of Britain''s most accomplished actors, familiar to audiences worldwide for his roles in Notting Hill, the Paddington films and Downton Abbey. What is it like working with Judi Dench and Julia Roberts, or playing Robert de Niro''s right leg, or not being Gary Oldman, twice? A wickedly funny storyteller, Hugh also writers with poignancy about his father''s dementia and of his mother, whose life in the secret service only emerged after her death. Whether telling stories of working with divas, Dames or a bear with a penchant for marmalade, this is a richly entertaining account of his life Trade ReviewA writer of considerable urbanity and wit. Gary Oldman says it is 'beautiful, touching and funny'. I agree. -- Lynn Barber * Daily Telegraph *Comedy gold... I don't remember when I last read a book that gave me so many laughs... A riveting account of what it takes to be an actor -- Christina Patterson * Sunday Times *Tremendously entertaining... if collapsing into laughter is what you need at the moment, then Playing Under the Piano could be the book for you... a delicious and endearing mode somewhere between utmost sincerity and utter bafflement -- Rachel Cooke * Observer *A great read * Graham Norton *An enormously entertaining memoir * Daily Mirror *The tone of Hugh Bonneville's autobiography is very much like the man himself - warm, charming, funny and thoroughly embraceable... There is a refreshing lack of narcissism in a narrative poised between detached observation and amused self-reflection... An enormously entertaining memoir -- Neil Norman * Daily Express *Really enjoyed this. Wonderfully funny and utterly charming - just like the man himself! -- Jack WhitehallBy turns funny, touching, revealing - full of insights, delights and surprises. I couldn't have enjoyed it more -- Gyles BrandrethA gorgeous book. Warm, friendly, funny and sometimes surprisingly emotional. Very like Hugh himself -- Richard CurtisWhen other books have been forgotten, this one will be remembered. Hugh Bonneville's considerable talent for writing is on display page after page. Beautiful. Touching. And funny. -- Gary OldmanCharming, joyous and entertaining, just like Hugh. -- Griff Rhys JonesA collection of stories painting a brilliantly vivid picture of a career on stage and screen * Yorkshire Post *Bonneville is entertaining, with a clear-eyed view of his trade... Reliving it all so far with light and shade, bite and bonhomie, as a memoirist Bonneville passes the audition with flying colours * Mail on Sunday *You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll love Hugh even more * Woman & Home *Bonneville tells of his life with appealing modesty... he gives us plenty of backstage gossip * Reader's Digest *Witty and moving * Country Living *The Downton star proves himself to be a polished raconteur -- Books of the Year * Daily Telegraph *A beautifully poised memoir, both insightful and - occasionally - laugh-out-loud funny, with the gift for comic timing he reveals on screen and a sharp eye for detail... warmly engrossing -- Books of the Year * The Times *Bonneville's affable screen presence richly translated onto the page through anecdotes and adventures... there are many howling laughs in this frequently entertaining memoir * RTE Guide *Playing Under the Piano made me hoot -- Ben Macintyre, Books of the Year * The Times *Though a funny raconteur, Bonneville also writes poignantly about his father's dementia and of his mother, whose life in the secret service only emerged after her death * The Gloss *Gloriously funny... Between the laugh-out-loud anecdotes are revealing stories of the less glamorous side of an actor's life, as well as poignant family memories -- Jane Shilling * Daily Mail *
£16.50
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Ava Gardner
Book SynopsisA biography, reissued to coincide with the twentieth anniversary of her death.Trade Review'An extraordinary life of an extraordinary woman ... Gardner's genius was not her work, but, as this book proves, her life' Observer 'Server gets movie stars, and he gets movies ... That's quite a trick for a biographer to pull off - both to immerse himself in his subjects, yet make them utterly his own' Sunday Times
£15.29
Orion Publishing Co A Life in Parts
Book Synopsis''A CINEMATIC RECORD OF HOW AN ACTOR SHAPES A CAREER'' Tom Hanks''FUNNY, SAD AND HEARTFELT'' Vince Gilligan''GRITTY, FUNNY AND SAD'' Entertainment Weekly''A SUPERB ANECDOTALIST'' Sunday Times Culture''RIVETING... ENGROSSING'' Huffington PostBRYAN CRANSTON maps his journey from abandoned son to beloved star, recalling the many odd parts he''s played in real life, and chronicles his evolution on camera. For the first time he shares the story of his early years, from his time as a soap opera regular to his recurring spots on Seinfeld and his role as bumbling father Hal on Malcolm in the Middle, along with an inspiring account of how he prepared for the award-winning role of President Lyndon Johnson.Of course, Cranston dives deep into the grittiest details of his greatest role, explaining how he searched inward for the personal darkness that would help him create one of thTrade ReviewBryan Cranston has created a cinematic record of how an actor shapes a career and an identity and a legacy all at the same time. -- Tom HanksI loved this book. It's just the right mixture of funny, sad and heartfelt. If I'd known Bryan could tell stories this well, I would have had him writing episodes of Breaking Bad. -- Vince GilliganThe highs here -and there are many -are meth-less but addictive. * KIRKUS REVIEWS *This splendid, moving, heartbreaking memoir is doubly triumphant. It regales and entertains while at the same time providing inspiration and practical wisdom. A truly gifted storyteller, Cranston captures the reader's imagination and emotions from beginning to end. -- Doris Kearns GoodwinBy turns gritty,funny, and sad, this fiercely intelligent book from the Breaking Bad star defies celebrity memoir tropes. -- Entertainment Weekly[A] substantial memoir from one of Hollywood's most introspective stars...anyone interested in acting will devour Cranston's savvy advice about honing one's craft and building one's career. -- BooklistIt's an engrossing first-person account by one of our finest actors and I couldn't put it down. -- Phil Simon * HUFFINGTON POST *Fans of Breaking Bad will be glued to this riveting memoir, which looks at how he worked to create such a dark and legendary character. But long before Walter White, Bryan Cranston's life story was fascinating and dramatic. * IRISH COUNTRY MAGAZINE *His memoir, A Life in Parts, shows him as a superb anecdotalist with an honest take on how he dealt with fame found later in life. * SUNDAY TIMES CULTURE *a fascinating read and a satisfying look into Cranston's life -- Pip Ellwood * ENTERTAINMENT FOCUS *A great guy reading his great book to you like you're both just downing session IPAs in some crack-in-the-wall bar no one else has found. Cranston's widely acclaimed memoir has been winning praise for its earnest account of a good man fighting to be the actor he always dreamed of, and his gentle, confessional honesty shines through all the more when spoken in his loveable folksy tones. * MR HYDE *Candid and richly entertaining memoir -- Jane Shilling * DAILY MAIL *
£10.44
Simon & Schuster Al Pacino
Book SynopsisNot only is Al Pacino known as ''one of the greatest actors in all of film history'', he is also considered ''one of Hollywood''s most notorious bachelors'' (imdb.com) as well as being one of the most enigmatic and private celebrities in the world. For the first time, AL PACINO offers a deeply personal and revealing window into everything from his growing up in the South Bronx, where he shared three rooms with nine people, to his fabled studies with Charles Laughton and Lee Strasberg, his father''s absence, his mother''s early death, and how he bounced through a series of odd jobs until his first paid role at the age of 26. He reveals his childhood dream of becoming a professional baseball player, describes his first drink at 13, and admits his once ate Valium like popcorn at the Academy Awards. Though he has been involved with women like Diane Keaton and Beverly D''Angelo, the mother of his three children, he has never married and here reveals why, and how his feelings have changed. T
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Abrams Ghetto Klown
Book Synopsis This Eisner Award nominee, a graphic novel adaptation of the award-winning Broadway play Ghetto Klown, is a 'hilarious Hollywood memoir' (Lin-Manuel Miranda, from his introduction) and 'autobiographical dynamite” (Pulitzer Prize–winning author Junot Díaz). Tony Award winner John Leguizamo lays bare his life story in this graphic novel illustrated by artists Christa Cassano and Shamus Beyale. He shares memories of his early years as an actor on stage, on television, and in major motion pictures opposite some of Hollywood’s biggest stars—including Al Pacino, Patrick Swayze, and Steven Seagal—and working for directors Baz Luhrmann and Brian De Palma. Leguizamo also opens up about his loves and marriages, while addressing self-doubt and melancholy in a way that enlightens and entertains.“[John] is a pioneer in theater and comedy, not just for Latin people, but as much as anTrade Review“Ghetto Klown is autobiographical dynamite—this is Leguizamo at his scathing, honest, moving, comedic best. Among the finest portraits of an artist as a young wounded talented man as I’ve read.” * Junot Díaz *“My main Johnny Legs has done it again. Ghetto Klown as a graphic novel? DOPENESS.” * Spike Lee *“John’s writing is a cross between hip-hop and Eugene O’Neill. His scathing and unforgiving look at his own life takes no prisoners and, best of all, sets himself—and us—free.” * Baz Luhrmann *“John’s writing has always been cutting-edge. His relationships with women, father and son stories, autobiography . . . He is a pioneer in theater and comedy, not just for Latin people, but as much as any comic or playwright I’ve ever seen or read. No one makes me laugh louder than this man. We are better because of him.” * Sophia Vergara *“The graphic novel of Ghetto Klown captures the infectious spirit of John Leguizamo’s live performances with the same surprising humor and cultural insight. These pages make John seem like the coolest super hero in New York.” * Jesse Eisenberg *“A touching and sometimes hilarious graphic novel.” * Parade online *“Though Leguizamo has matured, this insightful and engaging memoir still offers plenty of youthful edginess.” * Booklist *
£12.59
Abrams The Good Neighbor
Book Synopsis
£15.30
Abrams FAMEISH My Life at the Edge of Stardom
Book SynopsisStand-up comedian and Chloe of the television series 24, Mary Lynn Rajskub shares her debut collection of hilarious essays and endearing missteps on the road to becoming FAME-ISH. It’s not easy being kind of famous. Fortune. Younger men. Exclusive invites. Being mistaken for different actresses who are slightly prettier and more famous than you. It’s all part of the gig, and Mary Lynn Rajskub is a pro. Hilarious and self-deprecating, FAME-ISH is Mary Lynn Rajskub’s debut collection of riotously funny essays. Smart, satirical, and relatable, this book gives new meaning to the word icon as Rajskub navigates the entertainment world against the backdrop of her own quirky idiosyncrasies. She describes what it’s like to make out with Tom Cruise, be a waitress at Denny’s, and find your life’s purpose in 300 indecipherable, not-easy steps—all in a day’s work. Rajskub is honest abou
£18.04
Outskirts Press Sixteen Candles Shine Forever In Memory of Johnny Maestro
£10.95
Peter Lang Publishing Inc Playing Shakespeares Lovers
Book SynopsisPlaying Shakespeare's Lovers examines Shakespeare's romantic characters from multiple perspectives. Contributing actors, directors, educators and scholars bring diverse and wide-ranging insights into the motives, context, history and challenges of performing Shakespeare's infinite variety of lovers. The volume begins with an introductory essay, followed by brief essays and interviews, on various characters within the world of Shakespeare's lovers.Table of ContentsLouis Fantasia: Introduction: Playing Shakespeare’s Lovers: "I know thou wilt say ‘aye’…" – Ellen Geer: All the Loves of a Dream One Midsummer’s Night – Charles Duff: Bassanio, or How a Hustler Falls in Love – Cindy Gold: Gender Flipping Shrew: Remedy or Band Aid? – Susan Gayle Todd: Caliban in Love – Baron Kelly: Othello: In the Age of Black Lives Matter and DACA – Manon Spadaro/Members of the Chicago Youth Shakespeare Ensemble: Roundtable: Playing at Love in the Age of Tinder – Jonathan Litten: Jaques: Shadow and Serpent – Allison DeLauer: What’s Love Got to Do with It? (It’s Complicated) – Louis Fantasia: Speak Low—Shakespeare’s Language of Love – Contributors.
£65.34
AuthorHouse Just a Boy from Home
£21.84
AuthorHouse From Cowboy to Mogul to Monster
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Simon & Schuster The Making of a StandUp Guy
£10.99
Simon & Schuster Ill Scream Later
Book SynopsisAudiences everywhere fell in love with Marlee Matlin as the deaf student-turned-custodian in Children of a Lesser God, a role for which she became the youngest woman ever to win a Best Actress Oscar. Since then, she has become an inspirational force of nature - as a mother, activist and role model - in addition to playing memorable roles on popular television shows, such as Seinfeld, The West Wingand The L Word, and competing on Dancing with the Stars.Now, in I''ll Scream Later, Marlee shares the story of her life. Marlee takes readers on a journey of her life, from the frightening loss of her hearing at eighteen months old to the highs and lows of Hollywood, her battles with addiction, and the unexpected challenges of being thrust into the spotlight as an emissary for the deaf community. She candidly shares for the first time the troubles of her youth, the passionate and tumultuous two-year relationship with Oscar winner William Hurt that led to a stint in rehab, and her subse
£13.97
Simon & Schuster Time Steps
£13.29
Simon & Schuster A Life of Barbara Stanwyck
Book SynopsisFrank Capra called her, The greatest emotional actress the screen has yet known. Yet she was one of its most natural, timeless, and underrated stars. Now Victoria Wilson, gives us the most complete portrait we have yet had, or will have, of this magnificent actresses, seen as the quintessential Brooklyn girl whose family was in fact of old New England stock…her years in New York as dancer and Broadway star…her fraught marriage to Frank Fay, Broadway genius, who influenced a generation of actors and comedians (among them, Jack Benny and Stanwyck herself)…the adoption of a son, embattled from the outset; her partnership with the unfunny Marx brother, Zeppo, together creating one of the finest horse breeding farms in the west; her fairytale romance and marriage to the younger Robert Taylor, America''s most sought-after male star…Here is the shaping of her career working with many of Hollywood''s most important directors: among them, Capra, King Vidor, CecilTrade Review"Monumental... A vivid portrait of the entire era in which she flourished." -- Peter Bogdanovich“Barbara Stanwyck was one of the very great loves of my life and Victoria Wilson's book told me so much more than Barbara herself could tell anybody. She has captured her loyalty--her professionalism--her anger and her undeniable will to stay in the game of life and, perhaps most importantly--her loneliness. Victoria has been ‘steel true’ to her.” -- Robert Wagner"If ever there was an actress who was ready for prime time, it is Stanwyck, and this enormously informative tribute – juicy, yet dignified, admiring yet detached – is the book to bring her to center stage." -- Molly Haskell * New York Times Book Review *“You’ll love this book. The story is full of flavor with details that create a kind of chiaroscuro painted deftly with a soft brush, of our life at that time... Wilson’s scholarliness on the subject of the life of a movie actress, a movie star whose career ran (she worked) for six decades, is awesome... If you are a movie fan, a filmmaking fan, a fan of Hollywood history, a filmmaker, or would be, should be, could be, or even just a person who is completely a TCM addict, this book you should be reading... I finished reading much to my disappointment (wanting more) after 860 pages.” -- David Columbia * New York Social Diary *"I was blown away, absorbed, riveted. What great smooth style, what brilliance, what depth. This is huge and wonderful and rich. What an achievement!" -- Anne Rice“This biography, when completed, will be the last word on Stanwyck.” -- Leonard Maltin * Indiewire *“Immensely detailed, authoritative, compulsively readable... It will come to be considered a classic.” -- James Curtis * author of Spencer Tracy *"A stunning achievement.” -- Meryle Secrest“One hopes that the wait for Ms. Wilson’s second volume won’t be as long as World War II, since ‘Steel-True’ is so readable, and as direct as its subject. I couldn’t put it down. . .” -- Cathy Horyn * The New York Times *“I am loving your Barbara Stanwyck--you bring that whole period of time so brilliantly to life. I am already in love with her and so so angry at Frank Fay! Thank you for this wonderful, delicious book!" -- Susan Cheever“Monumental in every sense...sweeping and authoritative...written with verve and with great empathy and relish for her subject. The author is also shrewd about the actress’s complexity and human limitations... she is smart about the films and about the history and business of Hollywood in the Golden Age. Not the least of her achievement is leaving the reader eager to read volume two.” -- Foster Hirsch * author of The Dark Side of the Cinema; A Method to Their Madness *“A fabulous and expansive examination of the life of an iconic American actress.” * Booklist (starred review) *“Steel-True courts the definitive…The voice of Steel-True is passive, reportorial, almost choral. Applied to Wilson’s landmark recovery and synthesis of 1920s and ’30s Broadway and Hollywood history, it works beautifully…Wilson is a bold and determined architect, and ultimately succeeds in tracing, via some of Hollywood’s most brilliant minds and celebrated careers, the evolution of both an industry and an art form during one of its most hallowed and productive periods.” -- Michelle Orange * Slate Magazine *“Wilson’s book is indeed a monument of research. . . . A Life of Barbara Stanwyck will unquestionably remain the biography of record; beyond Wilson’s excavation of so much that would otherwise have been lost, her book has a deep sensitivity to the seriousness and subtlety of Stanwyck’s craft. This is the biography not of a Hollywood phenomenon but of a serious artist.” -- Geoffrey O'Brien * BookForum *“What you have done is extraordinary. It is an amazing book, brilliantly written, enhancing the whole life, Barbara’s life, happenings around her—people of the industry, people in the theater and in politics. The way you have shown her life to include other situations, all that you interject . . . it makes her life, to me, more historically important. You have brought her wonderful career magnificently to life, and as her friend, I thank you.” -- Nancy Sinatra, Sr. * Barbara Stanwyck’s closest friend *
£31.93
Xlibris Memories
Book Synopsis
£21.85
Rowman & Littlefield The Essential Films of Ingrid Bergman
Book SynopsisIngrid Bergman was not only an incomparable beauty but one of the finest actresses of cinema's Golden Age. She made her start in modest productions in Sweden before Hollywood beckoned and soon became one of filmdom's brightest stars. She appeared in many acclaimed films including Casablanca, For Whom the Bell Tolls, and Gaslight. While her personal life was briefly tainted by an affair and a consequent falling out with the American public, Bergman was eventually able to return to Hollywood, and eventually earned two of her three Academy Awards.In The Essential Films of Ingrid Bergman, Constantine Santas and James Wilson look at the most notable performances of the award-winning actress's career. From her early work in Swedish films to her final role in the mini-series A Woman called Golda, this book analyzes the entirety of Bergman's on-screen career, paying special attention to those aspects of her acting that made her stand out mosther undeniable range of emotion, her stunning vulnerTrade ReviewMovie buffs, film students, and performing-arts admirers will be well served by this artful appraisal of one of the icons of Hollywood’s Golden Age. * Booklist *Santas and Wilson present a detailed and informative tribute to Bergman’s career. . . . More than a critical study, this is a love letter to Bergman’s accomplishments as an artist, and will be a delightful addition to any classic film lover’s library. * Publishers Weekly *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Introduction Key to Films A Brief Biography of Ingrid Bergman 1: A Woman’s Face (1938) 2: Intermezzo, A Love Story (1939) 3: Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde (1941) 4: Casablanca (1942) 5: For Whom the Bell Tolls (1943) 6: Gaslight (1944) 7: Spellbound (1945) 8: The Bells of St Mary’s (1945) 9: Notorious (1946) 10: Arch of Triumph (1948) 11: Joan of Arc (1948) 12: Stromboli (1959) 13: Europe 51 (1954) 14: Anastasia (1956) 15: Indiscreet (1958) 16: The Inn of the Sixth Happiness (1958) 17: Goodbye Again (1961) 18: The Yellow Rolls-Royce (1965) 19: Murder on the Orient Express (1974) 20: Autumn Sonata (1978) 21: A Woman Called Golda (1980) Bibliography Index About the Authors
£33.30
Rowman & Littlefield The Elvis Movies
Book SynopsisElvis Presley's stature as the King of Rock and Roll will never be challenged. Between his first RCA hit single in 1956the number-one smash Heartbreak Hoteland his death in 1977, Elvis amassed more than 100 hits on the music charts. Presley's dominance on the music chart was paralleled only by the singer's motion picture career. Between 1956 and 1969, Elvis appeared in more than thirty films, further cementing his place as one of the most popular entertainers of the twentieth century. While there have been countless books that explore the real Elvis tucked beneath layers of showbiz mythology, such volumes often dismiss his motion picture career as insignificant or overlook his onscreen work entirely. In The Elvis Movies, James L. Neibaur looks at the thirty-one features that Presley made, from Love Me Tender in 1956 to Change of Habit in 1969. Most of these were star vehicles tailor-made for his image. As Neibaur points out, Elvis had a real interest in being a good actor, but his inTrade ReviewNeibaur reveals a side of Elvis Presley’s career that is often overlooked, and does so in a way that is sure to change the mind of anyone who dismisses it as unimportant in film history. This book, with its numerous interviews, behind-the-scenes info, and Neibaur’s added insight, will both inform and delight both longtime Elvis fans and those who are only just discovering his brilliance. * Examiner.com *Neibaurs book is well written. . . .[H]e makes the history of Elvis Presley's film career comprehensible. . . .A very readable book, a wonderful addition to the other, is very recent publications on the film career of Elvis Presley. * The Memphis Flash *Throughout the 1950s and 1960s Elvis Presley starred in over thirty movies with most dismissed as lighthearted vehicles to help sell the accompanying soundtrack albums. . . .However, they were a major part of Elvis' career and have often been overlooked in print with very few books examining his movie career. Fortunately that has now been corrected with the publication of James L. Neibaur’s latest book, The Elvis Movies. Neibaur, a film historian, is well qualified to write such a book as his previous work has included studies of Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton and Harry Langdon, among others. In The Elvis Movies he offers in-depth and critical discussions about each movie starting with Love Me Tender in 1956 and ending with Change Of Habit in 1969. . . .Besides the details of each film (producers, directors, actors, actresses, songs, box office gross etc) Neibaur examines the impact the movies had on Elvis’s career and popular culture at the time. By including chapters on The Rise of Elvis Presley, Elvis In The Army, The Comeback Special and The Final Years Neibaur also tracks the evolution of Elvis’s career and personal life. The book is also illustrated with movie stills, posters and trade ads which help illustrate the story. . . .The Elvis Movies reveals an often overlooked aspect of Elvis Presley’s career in a way that should change the mind of those who dismiss it as unimportant in the history of film and is highly recommended. * Peter Lewry - Official Blog *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Introduction 1. The Rise of Elvis Presley 2. Love Me Tender 3. Loving You 4. Jailhouse Rock 5. King Creole 6. Elvis in the Army 7. G.I. Blues 8. Flaming Star 9. Wild in the Country 10. Blue Hawaii 11. Follow That Dream 12. Kid Galahad 13. Girls! Girls! Girls! 14. It Happened at the World's Fair 15. Fun in Acapulco 16. Kissin’ Cousins 17. Viva Las Vegas 18. Roustabout 19. Girl Happy 20. Tickle Me 21. Harum Scarum 22. Frankie and Johnny 23. Paradise, Hawaiian Style 24. Spinout 25. Easy Come, Easy Go 26. Double Trouble 27. Clambake 28. Stay Away, Joe 29. Speedway 30. Live a Little, Love a Little 31. Elvis: The Elvis Comeback Special 32. Charro! 33. The Trouble with Girls 34. Change of Habit 35. The Concert Films 36. The Final Years Notes Bibliography Index About the Author
£52.20
Rowman & Littlefield James Cagney Films of the 1930s
Book SynopsisOne of the biggest stars of the golden age of Hollywood, James Cagney appeared in more than sixty films throughout his career. In addition to starring in the classics White Heat, Mister Roberts, and One, Two, Three, Cagney received the Academy Award for his performance as George M. Cohan in Yankee Doodle Dandy. From his debut in Sinner's Holiday to one of his many gangster portrayals in The Roaring Twenties, the actor appeared in more than thirty films of the 1930s. Though he started out in supporting roles, Cagney quickly became a leading man and by the end of the decade, he was a box-office star.In James Cagney Films of the 1930s, James L. Neibaur reviews the first decade of the great actor's work. A film-by-film look at Cagney's movies during this pivotal period, this book traces the actor's transition from a song-and-dance man on stage to a tough guy on screen. Although Cagney occasionally was able to deviate from studio typecastingin such films as Footlight Parade and A Midsummer Trade ReviewThe amount of attention Neibaur pays to each film is striking, and his detailed breakdowns of individual scenes are not only insightful, but also convey a love and respect for Cagney and his work. One could watch a Cagney movie and enjoy him immensely, but the brilliance of his talent is really apparent while reading Neibaur’s book. The book is also complemented by a stunning array of publicity photos, screenshots, and movie posters featuring Cagney. With James Cagney Films of the 1930s, Neibaur more than succeeds at the book’s goal of examining the trajectory of Cagney’s career and how he developed his screen persona. This book is more insightful than any biography or overview of his entire filmography could ever be. That’s not to say that Cagney didn’t have a successful career following the 1930s; in fact, he continued to deliver amazing performances in an array of fantastic films, finally getting to branch out from his gangster persona a bit and even winning a Best Actor Oscar for 1942’s 'Yankee Doodle Dandy'. But by focusing on the career-defining years, Neibaur gives readers a chance to watch Cagney the movie star unfold before them, with bracketing chapters filling in the details on some of the rest of his career. It’s a fantastic read that is sure to become one of the definitive works on the great James Cagney. * Examiner.com *The format of the book follows along the lines of most of Neibaur’s other books in which he will take a classic Hollywood star and focus on a theme or an aspect/time of their career: ie. Clint Eastwood’s westerns or Harry Langdon’s silent comedies with a chapter dedicated to each film and a credits detailed list for each film. Each film is covered in detail tracing the films from a professional point of view. . . .[T]his is a good read and does effectively focus well on the career defining films of the decade. * Filmwerk *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Introduction 1. From the Streets to the Stage 2. Sinner’s Holiday 3. The Doorway to Hell 4. Other Men’s Women 5. The Public Enemy 6. The Millionaire 7. Smart Money 8. Blonde Crazy 9. Taxi! 10. The Crowd Roars 11. Winner Take All 12. Hard to Handle 13. Picture Snatcher 14. The Mayor of Hell 15. Footlight Parade 16. Lady Killer 17. Jimmy the Gent 18. He Was Her Man 19. Here Comes the Navy 20. The St Louis Kid 21. Devil Dogs of the Air 22. G Men 23. The Irish in Us 24. A Midsummer Night’s Dream 25. Frisco Kid 26. Ceiling Zero 27. Great Guy 28. Something to Sing About 29. Boy Meets Girl 30. Angels with Dirty Faces 31. The Oklahoma Kid 32. Each Dawn I Die 33. The Roaring Twenties 34. Cagney after the Thirties Bibliography About the Author
£81.00
Rowman & Littlefield The Clint Eastwood Westerns
Book SynopsisWhile the western was a staple of cinema for many decades, the form began to fade as its greatest star, John Wayne, made fewer films of distinction toward the end of his career. In the mid-1960s, the genre was redefined by a handful of directors, including Don Siegel and Italian filmmaker Sergio Leone, who offered something edgier, bloodier, and more violent. Working with both directors was an actor who had made a name for himself on the small screen in the hit western Rawhide. While Clint Eastwood would also star in and direct a number of successes with contemporary settings, his work in westerns represents the most significant part of his film career.In The Clint Eastwood Westerns, James L. Neibaur takes a film-by-film look at each of the superstar's signature works, from A Fistful of Dollars in 1964 to his modern-day classic Unforgiven, which earned him two Academy Awards, including best director. The author discusses in detail the production, impact, influences, and successes (bothTrade ReviewFilm historian Neibaur surveys Eastwood’s westerns, from the 1959–65 television series Rawhide to Sergio Leone’s 1967 classic A Fistful of Dollars to 1992’s Oscar-winning Unforgiven. It’s an interesting approach to Eastwood’s cinematic career; although both as an actor and as a director, Eastwood has tackled a wide variety of subjects and styles, he’s probably most commonly associated with westerns, and it was in that genre that, Neibaur suggests, Eastwood defined himself as an actor and director. Charting the production of each film, its cultural impact, and its impact on Eastwood’s career, the book shows us a working actor who became a movie star, a filmmaker, and a cultural icon. The book isn’t just a history of Eastwood’s career in westerns; because he was so involved in the genre, the text is also, in some ways, a history of screen westerns from the early 1960s to the early 1990s. For fans of books about moviemaking, and especially Eastwood’s fans, it’s a real winner. * Booklist *In The Clint Eastwood Westerns, Neibaur devotes a chapter to each of Eastwood’s fourteen western movies, which range from Leone’s 'Dollars' trilogy to the musical 'Paint Your Wagon' to the Civil War melodrama 'The Beguiled. Each chapter summarizes and analyzes the film in question, with emphasis on how every film fits into the western genre and how they furthered Eastwood’s career. It’s particularly fascinating to read how Eastwood’s career developed beginning with the chapter on 'High Plains Drifter', the first western that Eastwood directed as well as starred in. The evolution of his directorial style can be seen as the chapters progress, and Neibaur points out and analyzes in detail specific stylistic choices that Eastwood makes as a director and how they impact the film. . . . There are several more chapters throughout the book titled 'Between the Westerns' that discuss the movies Eastwood made outside of the western genre, like what is perhaps his most iconic role, that of Detective Harry Callahan in 1971’s 'Dirty Harry' (and a string of sequels). That role, as Neibaur points out, defined the antihero persona Eastwood had developed in films like the 'Dollars' trilogy more than any of his other characters, and was a major influence on his future western films despite not belonging to that genre. A final chapter titled 'After the Westerns' details Eastwood’s career since his Oscar-winning final western, 'Unforgiven'. These chapters, while not specifically about Eastwood’s western movies, provide the reader with a greater understanding of his career as a whole, and how his westerns and non-westerns influenced each other. Sprinkled throughout the book are many lovely images ranging from lobby cards to behind-the-scenes photos, while excerpts from Neibaur’s own interviews with such people as director Ted Post provide further insight into the films and Eastwood’s method of working. With an abundance of fresh material and intriguing film critiques, The Clint Eastwood Westerns is an engaging read for film fans and the definitive book on one of the western genre’s biggest icons. * Examiner.com *Clint Eastwood is a cinema icon, of course. As such, there have been numerous books about his life and career. This book by James L. Neibaur is a little different in that it focuses primarily on the westerns which made him an international star, a genre he would frequently revisit throughout most of his career. If you're a fan of those films, The Clint Eastwood Westerns is a must-read. The book chronicles his early career as Rowdy Yates in the Rawhide TV series through what is likely his final western, Unforgiven. Presented chronologically, each film is given its own chapter, all loaded with behind-the-scenes information, critical analysis and cultural impact. . . .The Clint Eastwood Westerns is a great read in which we develop further appreciation for not only his undisputed classics, but those he managed to make successful during eras when the western was essentially a dead genre. * Moviepilot *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Introduction Early Life, First Films, and TV Success 1. A Fistful of Dollars (1964) 2. For a Few Dollars More (1965) 3. The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly (1966) 4. Hang ’Em High (1968) 5. Coogan’s Bluff (1968) 6. Paint Your Wagon (1969) 7. Two Mules for Sister Sara (1970) 8. The Beguiled (1971) 9. Between the Westerns (1968–1971) 10. Joe Kidd (1972) 11. High Plains Drifter (1973) 12. Between the Westerns (1973–1976) 13. The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976) 14. Between the Westerns (1976–1979) 15. Bronco Billy (1980) 16. Between the Westerns (1981–1985) 17. Pale Rider (1985) 18. Between the Westerns (1986–1991) 19. Unforgiven (1992) After the Westerns Bibliography Index About the Author
£37.05
Rowman & Littlefield The Essential Humphrey Bogart
Book SynopsisMany film fans consider Humphrey Bogart the ultimate star of Hollywood's golden era. He rose from supporting roles in the early 1930s to become a superstar by the end of the decade. Bogart appeared in more classic films than just about any other actor in American cinema. In addition to The Maltese Falcon, Casablanca, The Big Sleep, The Treasure of Sierra Madre, and The African Queen, Bogart starred in dozens of other highly regarded films until his death in 1956.In The Essential Humphrey Bogart, Constantine Santas looks at the most important films of this Hollywood legend's career. Along with the established classics, this book discusses other films that showcase Bogart's superb acting talents, such as High Sierra, To Have and Have Not, Key Largo, In a Lonely Place, Beat the Devil, The Caine Mutiny, Sabrina, and The Desperate Hours. Presented in chronological order, these films chart the actor's ascent from stereotypical roles as gangsters in The Petrified Forest and Dead End to iconTrade ReviewWhat makes the book such a great read is the fact that the author places each film within the political and social environment of the time, replete with details and facts that make for interesting myth and reality.... Although the book is a product of scientific and academic research, it is anything but boring. Conversely, the uplifting material and deep exploration of the unknown aspects of the actor and his films make for lively reading. Personally, from the first to last word of its 212 pages, I discovered an unknown multidimensional Humphrey Bogart and learned of his very significant contribution to the golden era of American cinema! * The Huffington Post *Santas’ book is a great and extremely useful guide to the best Bogart’s titles, and its complete explanation. After owning this book, you will probably forget about IMDB or google, as it has everything you need to know about Bogart, his personal life, films, the approach he needed to take that made his screen look unforgettable. Bogart certainly had a unique charisma that allowed him to outlive his time and become an ultimate Hollywood star, as well as Santas’ book that you’ll soon starting using as 'Bogartclopedia'. * Let The Movie Move Us *Of course, over the years, there have been many books written about the legendary Bogart - but this handsome looking volume reviews no less than thirty eight of the stars films (complete with plots, full cast lists and behind-the-scenes information) from 'The Petrified Forest' in 1936 to 'The Harder They Fall in 1956.... I found this book absolutely fact filled, with much research undertaken and I certainly recommend it to MVM readers and Humphrey Bogart fans alike. * Movie Memories Magazine *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Introduction 1: Movies from 1930s and 1940s. 2: Movies from 1941 to 1945 3: From 1946 to 1951: Film Noir, Santana Productions 4: The Final Period: 1951-1956. Filmography Bibliography Index About the Author
£36.90
Rowman & Littlefield The Essential Mickey Rooney
Book SynopsisMickey Rooney is a cinematic icon whose career lasted from the silent era into the twenty-first century. From the shorts he made as Mickey McGuire to supporting roles in such films as Night at the Museum, Rooney had more than 300 film appearances to his credit. Mickey Rooney was not just a movie star, he was the most popular film performer for several years in a row in the 1930s. In addition to his four Academy Award nominations, Rooney received two special Oscars, including an honorary award for his variety of memorable performances spanning several decades. In The Essential Mickey Rooney, James L. Neibaur examines more than sixty feature films in which the actor appeared, from starring roles in Boys Town, Babes in Arms, and The Human Comedy to acclaimed supporting performances in The Bold and the Brave and The Black Stallion. In addition to familiar works like the Andy Hardy comedies or musicals opposite Judy Garland, lesser known films like Quicksand and Drive a Crooked Road are dTrade Review[T]hroughout the book Neibaur’s respect and admiration for Rooney’s talent, even if he appeared in a bad film, is evident in his writing. Neibaur often draws on material gathered from personal interviews with Rooney as well, lending further depth to his discussions of his films. Each chapter is incredibly thorough in terms of plot summary, background info, critique and analysis, whether he is discussing another cookie cutter Andy Hardy movie or a large-scale comedy like 'It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World.' Production stills, movie posters, and other photos are sprinkled throughout the book, adding more context to each chapter . . . The Essential Mickey Rooney lives up to its title, proving to be the definitive book on the actor who had one of the longest, most prolific careers in Hollywood. Even film fans already familiar with Rooney’s body of work will likely discover new information within its pages. Rooney’s personal life and relationships were notoriously tumultuous and may not have had the happiest of endings, but his boundless talent and enthusiasm on the screen lives on, and Neibaur perfectly captures it here. * Examiner.com *Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Introduction From Joe Yule to Mickey Mcguire The Early Appearances The Devil is a Sissy Down the Stretch A Family Affair Slave Ship Captains Courageous Hoosier Schoolboy Thoroughbreds Don’t Cry You’re only Young Once Love Is a Headache Judge Hardy’s Children Hold That Kiss Lord Jeff Love Finds Andy Hardy Boys Town Stablemates Out West with the Hardys The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn The Hardy’s Ride High Andy Hardy Gets Spring Fever Babes in Arms Judge Hardy and Son Young Tom Edison Andy Hardy Meets a Debutante Strike up the Band Andy Hardy’s Private Secretary Men of Boys Town Life Begins for Andy Hardy Babes on Broadway The Courtship of Andy Hardy A Yank at Eton Andy Hardy’s Double Life The Human Comedy Girl crazy Andy Hardy’s Blonde Trouble National Velvet Love Laughs at Andy Har Killer McCoy Words and Music The Big Wheel Quicksand The Fireball He’s a Cockeyed Wonder The Strip Sound off All ashore A Slight Case of Larceny Drive a Crooked Road The Atomic Kid The Bridges at Toko Ri Francis in the Haunted House Baby Face Nelson Andy Hardy Comes Home Everything’s Ducky Requiem for a Heavyweig It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World Ambush Bay The Comic Pulp Pete’s Dragon The Black Stallion The “Bill” TV Movies, The Honorary Osc Mickey Rooney in the 80s and 90s The “Night in the Museum” Films, The 21st Century Bibliography
£36.90
Rowman & Littlefield The Essential Jack Nicholson
Book SynopsisFor ten years Jack Nicholson toiled in low-budget films and guest spots in such television shows as Dr. Kildare and The Andy Griffith Show before his breakout performance in Easy Rider. Despite retiring in 2010, Nicholson remains one of the most revered actors of the last half century. Nominated for twelve Academy Awardsthe most of any male actorNicholson has received three Oscars and countless other honors. The Essential Jack Nicholson looks at the key films in the career of one of Hollywood's biggest stars. After a brief profile of the actor, James L. Neibaur highlights each of Nicholson's most important works, explaining why his performances are essential viewing. In addition to Easy Rider, the films discussed include Five Easy Pieces, The Last Detail, Chinatown, One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest, The Shining, Reds, Terms of Endearment, Prizzi's Honor, Ironweed, Batman, A Few Good Men, As Good as It Gets, About Schmidt, and The Departed. Neibaur also provides details about each fiTrade ReviewNeibaur takes a balanced approach, noticing the weakness of some of Nicholson’s early films but providing perceptive commentary on the jewels.... [T]his is a good survey of an actor’s career, with some solid critical analysis and some very interesting coverage of the actor’s years working with legendary B-movie maestro Roger Corman. * Booklist *
£36.90
Rowman & Littlefield Terry Bradshaw
Book SynopsisTerry Bradshaw made a name for himself as the star quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, winning four Super Bowls and twice earning the MVP award. Beyond his athletic success, Bradshaw has established himself as a true cultural icon through his ventures into television, movies, and music.In Terry Bradshaw: From Super Bowl Champion to Television Personality, Brett L. Abrams details the many personas of this larger-than-life entertainer. Not satisfied with just being a star quarterback, Bradshaw became an actor, commercial pitchman, country western and gospel singer, color commentator, and NFL pregame co-host. In addition to covering Bradshaw's life and career, Abrams discusses the stereotypes Bradshaw faced and his ability to turn those preconceived notions into a positive, likeable, down home image that enabled him to find success across the entertainment industries. Ultimately, Bradshaw has become not only an iconic sports figure, but a cultural icon, as well.Terry Bradshaw deliverTrade ReviewMany are aware of Terry Bradshaw’s Hall of Fame football career and subsequent role as an announcer and host for Fox Sports NFL broadcasts. But Bradshaw has also enjoyed success as an actor and singer during his more than 40 years as a public personality. This engaging read opens by briefly setting the stage for the Louisiana-born Bradshaw’s college football career; Abrams, a cultural historian, moves quickly to Bradshaw's years with the NFL's Pittsburgh Steelers. It was during the height of Bradshaw’s success on the playing field that his singing and acting careers began. Both are covered in detail, providing insights into these lesser-known aspects of Bradshaw’s life. When an elbow injury ended his football career, Bradshaw moved into the broadcast booth, and he continues to enjoy success as a host or cohost in a variety of sports and outdoor-related television programs. The author closes with an examination of Bradshaw’s “good old boy” public persona and how it may have impacted perceptions of the southern United States in other regions of the country. This book would be a welcome addition to sports and cultural history collections. Summing Up: Recommended. All readers. * CHOICE *Historian and author Abrams (The Bullets, the Wizards, and Washington, D.C., Basketball) carefully details Bradshaw’s long career, from his working-class Louisiana childhood to his current status as a football legend (four-time Super Bowl–winning quarterback), TV sports commentator, and performer in movies and television. Abrams provides an exhaustive look at the highlights of Bradshaw’s career with the Pittsburgh Steelers and is especially good in discussing the team’s win over the Dallas Cowboys in 1979’s Super Bowl XIII ('Even today, the NFL lists the game as one of its greatest'). Abrams describes how Bradshaw has carefully crafted his down-home everyman public image—in movies, commercials, and as a sports commentator. Abrams delivers an excellent look at how Bradshaw combined his Southern roots with his extensive knowledge of football to reshape the 'stodgy' pregame sports programs of CBS and Fox. * Publishers Weekly *In this second title in the 'Sports Icons and Issues in Pop Culture' series, archivist Abrams (Capital Sporting Grounds) covers Hall of Fame quarterback Terry Bradshaw’s professional football career in three perfunctory chapters. The real focus of this book is the development of the player’s celebrity and exploitation of that persona via pop culture. Abrams examines Bradshaw’s music albums, television and movie roles, commercial advertising campaigns, and books as they interact with American culture and how each was received both by critics and the public. An important subtheme is how Bradshaw’s Southern background (he was born and raised in Louisiana) helped shape his image, and how his popularity contributed to the evolution of the overall perception of the South.... VERDICT A unique take on Bradshaw’s life and career primarily of interest to students of pop culture. * Library Journal *The book is a great account of the Hall of Fame QB, and his transition from throwing passes to the likes of Lynn Swann and John Stallworth, to trading barbs with the likes of Michael Strahan on the set of Fox Football Sunday…. The book gives some great insight as to the rise of Bradshaw, as well as his fight and struggle along the way to becoming the celebrity he is today and has been in the public spotlight for close to the last 50 years. The author carefully talks about how Bradshaw has become a lot more in his life than a guy throwing a football, he speaks in great detail of how multi-talented Bradshaw is, and how he’s been able to market that after his final touchdown pass was thrown in 1983 against the New York Jets. If you’re looking for a great Steelers read this winter while the black and gold are looking to reach a seventh Lombardi, try this 328-page account of Bradshaw, you won’t be disappointed. * Steelers Gab *It is a very interesting story of [Bradshaw's] evolution from NFL Quarterback to a multi faceted career that continues to this day. Mr. Abrams does an excellent job in tracing the areas of Bradshaw's post NFL career especially when looking at his broadcasting career. His transition from the color commentator to pre game host is a fascinating read.... If you are looking for an interesting read on Terry Bradshaw from his beginnings as a football player in Shreveport, Louisiana to his reshaping the television world of pre game NFL shows, this book will be for you. I found it to be an enjoyable and informative read. * Gridiron Greats *Terry Bradshaw is not only a Super Bowl winning quarterback, NFL Hall-of-Famer, and an actor/broadcaster, he is, as Abrams adroitly argues, an entertainer who has helped convey a positive portrayal of the southern “good old boy” personae to a broad audience. Abrams’ work is more than biography: it examines how Bradshaw used his talents (on the field and off) so as to develop a character who has generated a more positive perception of Southerners throughout the entire nation. -- Jorge Iber, Professor and Associate Dean, Texas Tech University, and author of Mike Torrez: A Baseball BiographyWhat Brett Abrams has done with this gem of a book is to highlight the extraordinarily multi-talented person Terry Bradshaw actually is. This book pulls the veil down and allows the reader to see the real Bradshaw, and perhaps to understand where he is coming from when he says some of the things he has said. Bradshaw is a legend, an all-time icon, but not just in Pittsburgh, not just for football. -- Chris Burtch, analyst and personality, CBS Sports Radio WLLF 96.7 FMBrett Abrams’ Terry Bradshaw: From Super Bowl Champion to Television Personality is an interesting and illuminating study of Terry Bradshaw’s life and career with an emphasis on Bradshaw as an iconic pop culture figure. Abrams captures the symbolic cultural significance of the football hero who makes the transition to the world of television sports and entertainment. The intersection and overlap of these two careers offers insight into the power of sport and entertainment in modern America. -- Richard C. Crepeau, author of NFL Football: A History of America’s New National PastimeTable of ContentsPreface Introduction: Terry Bradshaw in the Entertainment Industry Chapter 1: Born In the Bayou: Making Heroes Chapter 2: The Bradshaw Image: Moses v. Li’l Abner Chapter 3: Two Golden Rings: Becoming the Leading Man Chapter 4: Two More Golden Rings: Taking Center Stage Chapter 5: Little bit Country & Little bit Gospel: Old School Southern Singer Chapter 6: From Advertising to Acting: Being a Good Old Boy Chapter 7: Leaving It On the Field: Hero Digs Deep Chapter 8: Press Box View: The Colorful Unfiltered Commentator Chapter 9: Studio Analysis and Hijinks: Playing “Terry Bradshaw” Chapter 10: Host, Guest Star & Commercials: Zany Uncle Terry Conclusion: Sports Icons and Celebrity Entertainers Bibliography Index About the Author
£36.90
Rowman & Littlefield The Essential James Garner
Book SynopsisSince his television debut in the mid-1950s, James Garner entertained millions of fans on screens both big and small. From supporting roles in memorable films like Sayonara and The Notebook to leading roles in box office hits including The Great Escape, Victor / Victoria, and the feature film version of Maverick, the actor appeared in some of the most entertaining movies of all time.In The Essential James Garner, Stephen H. Ryan and Paul J. Ryan consider the prolific output of one of America's most beloved actors. This book looks at the key feature films, made-for-television movies, and television episodes of Garner's career. The authors discuss each of the actor's most well-known filmsThe Great Escape, The Americanization of Emily, Support Your Local Sheriff! and Murphy's Romance, among othersas well as critically acclaimed television movies including Barbarians at the Gate, Breathing Lessons, Decoration Day, Heartsounds, My Names Is Bill W., and Promise. Each entry provides details aTrade ReviewAfter reading The Essential James Garner, I felt these two gentlemen truly captured the essence of my father’s classic work. Paul and Stephen Ryan genuinely recognized the subtle genius of dad’s gifts, and I applaud them for their insightful observations. -- Gigi GarnerNeither a biography nor a work of film criticism, this latest in Rowman & Littlefield’s Essential series is an appreciation of James Garner’s career in television and movies, and as one of the twentieth century’s most likable actors, there is much to appreciate. Following the established series format, the text opens with a solid introduction to Garner’s life and work and then moves on, first, to more detailed treatments of the movies and the television series. The movie sections include plot summaries, brief accountings of how and why the movies were made, reviews of the films’ critical reception, and brief analyses. For the television series, including the classics, Maverick and The Rockford Files, the authors provide a look at the series’ themes and story arcs as well as episode guides with plot summaries. This is not a full critical appraisal of Garner’s career, but it will certainly be satisfying to the actor’s many fans, who will enjoy the trip down memory lane. * Booklist *Actor James Garner (1928–2014) is probably best remembered as the star of two very successful TV shows—Maverick in the late 1950s and early 1960s, and The Rockford Files in the 1970s—but he also enjoyed a career that spanned five decades and included seven TV series, more than 40 films (The Great Escape; The Notebook), three Golden Globe Awards, and two Emmys. In 2005, Garner was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Screen Actors Guild. All of that is impressive, but does Garner’s career warrant an entire book devoted to those films and TV shows considering he wrote his own memoir, The Garner Files, in 2011? The authors, an acquisitions editor at Rowman & Littlefield (Stephen) and a business management consultant (Paul), say yes, adding their aim is to “point out the highlights of Garner’s career and encourage readers to discover or revisit the best that Garner had to offer . . . particularly those that were not given their proper due.” They do that with a short bio followed by a chronological examination of each included film and TV show. This book is illustrated with photos and ends with a complete filmography and list of awards and honors. VERDICT: This well-researched work will be of most interest to die-hard Garner fans and film researchers. * Library Journal *A tribute to the career of a Hollywood legend, the book will appeal to anyone wanting to know more about the actor's best films and TV series. * Discover Hollywood *Authors Stephen H. Ryan and Paul J. Ryan have compiled the quintessential book about the career of actor James Garner. . . The book covers his entire career as one of America’s most beloved actors. . . a must-have for fans of Mr. James Garner. * Family Choice Awards *Even longtime fans are apt to read a fact or two they didn't know before. * Free Kittens Movie Guide *
£33.30
Simon & Schuster Total Recall AUDIO
Book SynopsisSchwarzenegger's TOTAL RECALL is a larger-than-life portrait of his illustrious, controversial and entertaining life in and out of the public eye.
£17.09
University of Toronto Press Bennewitz Goethe Faust
Book SynopsisFritz Bennewitz (1926-1995) was the director-in-chief of East Germany''s Weimar National Theatre. Extraordinary in his capacity for cultural and linguistic adjustment, he directed productions in twelve countries, always adapting shows to make them meaningful to local audiences. Notably, Bennewitz conducted stagings of Goethe''s Faust in four different languages over a series of seven productions three in pre-unification Weimar, one in the reunited Germany, and one each in New York, Manila, and Mumbai.The first comprehensive account of Bennewitz''s remarkable career, Bennewitz, Goethe, Faust is also a pioneering study of intercultural interpretations of Faust. David G. John brings to light previously unknown archival materials including annotated playbooks, correspondence, translations, videos, and reception information as well as unpublished production photos from the stagings discussed in the book. Bennewitz, Goethe, Faust makes a cogentTrade Review'This unique introduction to the work of a pivotal GDR Faust interpreter fills a gap in scholarship and offers stimulus for future research. Highly recommended' -- E. Wickersham Choice Magazine, vol 50:02:2012Table of ContentsAbbreviations Foreword Documentation Part I Bennewitz 1. Persona and Theory * Slim Recognition* Biography* Split Personality* Politics* Dogma and Theory 2. Peers * Erika Stephan* Dieter G rne* Wolfgang Engel Part II The German Fausts: Chronicle of a Society 3. Hooray for Socialism! Weimar 1965/67 * Background* Audience Preparation* The Performance* Essential Features* Critical Reception* The Party Line* Conclusion 4. Hooray for Socialism? Weimar 1975 * Background* Audience Preparation* The Performance* Essential Features* Critical Reception* The Party Line* Conclusion 5. Socialism? Weimar 1981/82 * Background* Audience and Cast Preparation* The Performance* Essential Features* Critical Reception* The Party Line* Conclusion 6. Alles f r die Katz': Meiningen 1995 * Background* The Performance* Critical Reception* Conclusion Part III The Intercultural Fausts 7. The First Black Gretchen: New York 1978 * Background* The Performance* Performance Consciousness* Critical Reception* Conclusion 8. The Hindu Faust: Bombay 1994 * Background* The Performance* Critical Reception* Aftermath* Conclusion 9. The Christian Faust: Manila 1994 * Background* The Performance* Critical Reception* Aftermath* Conclusion 10. From Loyalist to Intercultural Pioneer Part IV Documentation Bibliography Appendices * Highlight Biography* Travels* Plays directed* Holdings of the Fritz Bennewitz Archive in Leipzig: A Treasure Trove for Researchers Index
£47.60
Hodder & Stoughton The Happy Hoofer
Book Synopsis''I''ve always been wilful... I''ve always been stubborn and always determined''One of our best-loved actresses, Celia Imrie would rather have been a dancer. As a child she planned to join the Royal Ballet and marry Rudolf Nureyev. Now she has become one of our finest and funniest performers, on stage, TV and screen - adored for her roles in Acorn Antiques and dinnerladies, as well as films including Calendar Girls and Nanny McPhee.In her hugely entertaining autobiography Celia Imrie recounts a life hurtling (not always intentionally) into adventures both on stage and off. Whether it''s finding herself on stage with half the scenery stuck to her cardigan, or being kidnapped on her way to location, somehow she emerges from the chaos unscathed.Acting, she admits, is a mad, chaotic profession and it is her refreshing honesty, sense of mischief, fun and almost unruffled determination in the face of it all that makes this autobiography a never-eTrade ReviewFor tasty gossip, Celia is the hottest ticket in town...The Happy Hoofer is backstage gossip from the premiere league. * Robert McCrum, Observer *From the moment where she finds herself on stage with scenery stuck to her cardigan, to the time she was kidnapped on her way to a location, she emerges with both her sense of humour and dignity in tact. * Good Housekeeping, Book of the Month *If you're anything like me, seeing Celia Imrie's name flash onscreen inspires a sigh of relief. I think, "Class act. Everything's going to be OK." Her memoir, The Happy Hoofer, is every bit as assured and entertaining. It's a lively romp populated by the entertainment world's great, good, and downright naughty (often Imrie). * Scotsman Magazine *Her new autobiography is full of drama... and obviously, from someone so closely associated with comedy, it's extremely funny * Gay Times *wildly entertaining * Daily Telegraph *
£12.34
Hodder & Stoughton Mummys Boy
Book SynopsisAn incredibly moving story of fatherhood and family - good and bad - from the star of Eastenders and Gavin and StaceyTrade Review'What a life! I loved it. Almost as good as sitting with him and listening to his stories.' * Rob Brydon *'What a life! It's a very gentlemanly book. Inspiring. I do hope that many parents read this book and take a good hard look at themselves.' * Roberta Taylor *'A wonderful story of survival against the odds told with compassion and humour. This is so much more than a showbiz autobiography.' * Anne Robinson *This captivating and honest book is a warts and all look at love, marriage, family and showbiz. What is loveable about Larry Lamb is that he is just as happy to tell us about the toe curling fiascos as he is about the triumphs that have led to leading roles on Broadway and on British television . * Julia Gregson *'[A] rich life story, packed with anecdotes.' * News of the World *'A captivating read.' * Inside Soap *'Mummy's Boy manages to be touching, funny and uniquely warm all at once. A must-read.' * Best *Searingly honest...and hugely entertaining. * Irish News *
£13.49
Hodder & Stoughton The Real Mrs. Brown
Book SynopsisWho''d have thought a potty-mouthed Dublin mammy with a cream cardigan and elasticated tan tights could storm British TV screens and leave a nation helpless with laughter? Brendan O''Carroll performs to tens of thousands of people a night in packed-out stadiums across the country. In the last four years his TV show has become a number 1 ratings success and he''s even making a movie. But Brendan has had to battle hard for success. The youngest of eleven children, his mother was Maureen O''Carroll, a former nun who went on to become the first woman to be elected to the Irish parliament. Brendan adored his strong, widowed mother - and she later became the inspiration for his indomitable character Agnes Brown. However, the family endured poverty reminiscent of Angela''s Ashes and Brendan saw no option but to leave school at 12 to work. He married young and for decades struggled to make ends meet. Eventually, bankrupt and desperate, Brendan went to see a Trade ReviewThis is the amazing story of the man behind the matriarch * Choice *
£10.44
