From Publishers Weekly
A well-off young man whose father owned a jewelry store in Brooklyn, quiet, soft-spoken Neil Diamond started writing songs as a teenager. Not a good singerhe often talked over the melody and found it very difficult to sing other people's songs in tunethis insecure, introverted tunesmith acquired a flair for showmanship and notoriety, became a maker of hit records, a superstar on TV, Broadway and the concert circuit, and eventually the composer and lead actor in a remake of The Jazz Singer. Based on over 100 interviews (but none with Diamond himself), this chatty biography follows the career of a pop star who, we're told, still regards himself as "just a scared Jewish boy wondering what will happen next." Photos not seen by PW.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
From Library Journal
The son of immigrants, Neil Diamond started life in Brooklyn. Wiseman presents him as an isolated youth who lashes out until he discovers music as a way to express himself. After a number of false starts, Diamond breaks into Tin Pan Alleywhich he later repudiates even while drawing upon it. Wiseman takes the reader through it all, the industry and the legal battles, and every major recording date, concert, TV special, and film, finally showing Diamond at the top of his form, frustrated by his limited musical craftsmanship yet speaking directly to a wide-ranging audience. He draws on over 100 interviews, giving a balanced picture of the person behind the mystique. Written in an easy-going style, this biography should appeal not only to Diamond's fans but to those interested in pop culture generally. Arthur Bargar, Milford P.L., Ct.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
