Mann is not the only writer to take advantage of new materials recently unearthed in the quest for information about celebrities and other celebrated individuals, past and present.
Here are new titles that promise a wealth of tidbits, history and detailed analysis beyond the usual “vanity” celebrity puff pieces.
“Born Standing Up: A Comic’s Life” by Steve Martin: Absurd, ironic and full of non-sequiturs, Martin’s inspired comedy style is truly unique. Share his autobiographical stories, from growing up in Orange County and working in Disneyland to hitting the big-time in Hollywood while becoming an actor, respected author, playwright and producer on the way.
“Flapper: A Madcap Story of Sex, Style, Celebrity, and the Women Who Made American Modern” by Joshua Zeitz: During the 1920s Jazz Age, skirts were shortened, hair was bobbed, and American social customs changed dramatically from the previous century. Discover the effects that Zelda Fitzgerald, Clara Bow, Coco Chanel and other revolutionary personalities had in shaping modern Western culture.
“Boone: A Biography” by Robert Morgan: Daniel Boone is an American legend. Now separate fact from fiction in this new study of the famous pioneer, explorer and soldier from the Revolutionary War period. Author Morgan brings the 1700s old Kentucky home into sharp focus.
“Off the Record: A Reporter Unveils the Celebrity Worlds of Hollywood, Hip-Hop and Sports” by Allison Samuels: Enter the private lives of top African-American entertainers and celebrities in a book paying tribute to Coretta Scott King, Halle Berry, Shaquille O’Neal, Eddie Murphy, and other notables heralded for their achievements.
