Debbie: My Life [Hardcover]

Debbie Reynolds (Author), David Patrick Columbia (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 1988

1988

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Debbie (nee Mary Frances) Reynolds was born in 1932, grew up poor in Texas and California, was crowned "Miss Burbank" at age 16. In her memoir, written with freelancer Columbia, the performer strongly resembles "The Unsinkable Molly Brown," one of her notable film roles. She is ebullient, feisty and outspoken in revelations about herself and others. She recalls, for example, that as a 19-year-old raw talent in 1951 she had to endure Gene Kelly's furious complaints of her ineptness while filming the classic Singin' in the Rain . But she treasures memories of Fred Astaire, Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra and other luminaries, even the oft-maligned "Mr. Mayer" of MGM. Eddie Fisher, who deserted her and their children to wed Elizabeth Taylor, is dealt with harshly. So is Harry Karl, the actress's second husband who, she maintains, squandered all his money and hers, leaving her to pay staggering debts. But the "unsinkable" here assures her fans that she is now happily married and still performing as a singer, comedienne, dancer and actress on stage, TV and in night clubs. Photos not seen by PW. First serial to Good Housekeeping; Doubleday Book Club main selection; Literary Guild alternate.
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Library Journal

Ex-tomboy Frannie (Mary Frances Reynolds) entered (to get the clothing prizes), and won, Miss Burbank as a poor 16-year-old, and also got a film contract. A contemporary of Liz Taylor, Robert Wagner, and others, Reynolds tells how she always focused on hard work and dedication to win the respect of her peers and fans. Though frank in her account of two failed marriages despite her best efforts, financial troubles, and problems with her stepchildren, she comes across as a gutsy woman in this upbeat book. Despite her insights into many Hollywood names, this is not a "kiss and tell" book; it is, at times, an appealing autobiography. Rebecca Sturm, Northern Kentucky Univ. Lib., Highland Heights
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 446 pages
• Publisher: William Morrow & Co; 1st edition (October 1988)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 068806633X
• ISBN-13: 978-0688066338
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 6.4 x 1.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.8 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (9 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #900,778 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars ACTUALLY, A VERY NICE READ, October 26, 2005

By 

D. Blankenship (The Ozarks) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Debbie: My Life (Hardcover)

First, I must state that I am not overly fond of autobiographies in general and celebrity autobiographies in particular. I found this one in a used book store and added it to my stack of finds on pure whim. I am very glad I did. The book was actually quite readable and very enjoyable. I have always enjoyed Ms. Reynolds' work and after reading her story, appreciate it, the work, even more. The books is salted with many fine photographs of the subjects life and work and are well placed. The narrative is easy to follow and as I said, "readable." Quite a fascinating life. All in all, if you are interested in such things, I highly recommend this one

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Most Fascinating Book I've Ever Read!, September 16, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: Debbie: My Life (Paperback)

I was not able to put this book down! It is so wonderfully entertaining, just like Debbie Reynolds herself! "My Life" is full of great Hollywood stories and focuses on one of the most interesting stories I've ever heard--Debbie's life story. It's funny and it brings you right in, as though Debbie is telling you the story, not just writing it. I HIGHLY recommend this stellar book, "Debbie:My Life."

6 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars WOW++++++++++++++++++++++, September 9, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Debbie: My Life (Hardcover)

Debbie tells her story with great energy....just like she has in all aspects of her life.......you want to laugh and cry with her....she is honest about her life and those around her....you walk away feeling good........just like you do after you've seen her on stage......Bravo Debbie