I just finished reading a novel based on a factual person...the first actress of film -- Florence Lawrence, "The Biograph Girl" by, William Mann.
What an excellent book. From the beginning to end. It spans over a century when a woman, in a nursing home, is discovered. Or should I say rediscovered. She is proclaiming to be the Biograph Girl. Many twists, turns and life's events are depicted with clarity and accuracy.
Mr. Mann has done himself proud in my estimation. The book is a page turner. Kept my interests through the entire reading. A fabulous ending. The last chapter had me in tears!
If anyone likes historical drama (and the written biographical works of Hollywood) that unfolds in a way of mystery and intrigue, this book is a good grab. Many decades and quite a few very interesting characters are covered here, along with the flamboyant and grandiose 'star' of the book, the centenarian, Flo!!
* * *
Now I have a book that I found at the used bookstore that we frequent almost weekly for "finds and treasures"....entitled Sally Hemmings. If you're into American History any, you may recognize the name. If not, well -- Sally Hemmings was a slave. Yet there is something special about her past. She was the mistress of our 3rd president, Thomas Jefferson. Years ago, it was proclaimed by DNA testing that her children were indeed sons of Mr. Jefferson. Which inlies a subject that promises to hold my interest.
The book, Sally Hemmings, is a novel by Barbara Chase-Riboud. At the time of the printing in the late 1970's there was quite a 'stir' as to the unchecked, controversial, facts in which Ms. Chase-Riboud used for her work in writing the novel. Yet, with today's science, the facts she used to base her book were proclaimed true and historical. Tho the 'treasure' I found is a first edition, the book has been in reprint and you should be able to find it in paperback these days.
rena * * Melli *
3 Comments:
ooooohhh, being as I love to read, will check that one out for sure. Thanks for the "critique". Certainly tweaked my interest.
Both books sound like wonderful reads...I will definitely have to try to read them both...if I can find the 2nd one. *s*
Both of those books sound like interesting reading to me! And I do like things like that from time to time! (especially Biograph Girl) Might have to look at the library and see what I can find! Thanks Wys!
Post a Comment
<< Home