Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #325191 in Books
• Published on: 1988-10
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 446 pages

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.

Customer Reviews

ACTUALLY, A VERY NICE READ
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

The Most Fascinating Book I've Ever Read!
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."

WOW++++++++++++++++++++++
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