Book Description
Judy Garland, written by the world's premier Garland authority, is based on decades of unprecedented research; on hundreds of interviews with family, friends, show-biz colleagues, and other insiders; and on Judy's own thoughts and insights. This day-by-day account of the legends life -- the first of its kind -- succeeds in the daunting task of tracking Judy's myriad professional pursuits, the personal crises she triumphed over, and her many accomplishments. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (27)

Rejoice: Schechter has chronicled Judy and Liza for the Ages
Schechter has done for Judy and Liza what Koeschel has done for Wolfgang. It's all here: the mood, the method, the magnificence, in two encyclopedic texts that detail the lives and good works of two of the most fascinating and talented women of our time and all the ages--the Fantastic Garland and her equally incredible Daughter Liza Minnelli. Schechter has not only written two great books, he has done the world a terrific service in collecting some of their TV appearances on DVDs that have given a permanent showcase to material that otherwise might have been gone and forgotten forever, to the great loss of us all. Colorful, informative, and fascinating, these two books on Judy and Liza, as well as the DVDs that constitute exhibits A-Z, should provide fans and would be admirers alike with endless pleasure and information, as they make an incalculably important and significant archival contribution to our heritage. Not to be missed.Martin Kantor, MD. Author of My Guy: A Gay Man's Guide to a Lasting Relationship and Together Forever: The Gay Man's Guide to Lifelong Love

Incredibly detailed
Scott Schechter has done a fantastic job of exhaustively researching Judy Garland; so many details here. Overall, one finishes this impressive "encyclopedia" and wonders how one who was supposedly so "unreliable" accomplished so much in such a short lifespan. A definite must-have for Garland fans.

A Gold Mine of Data
This book is a must-have for Judy fans.That's a given.
But be careful about a quick dismissive flip through the pages.This is, among other great things, a key reference book for collectors.
If you want to know about a particular song Judy sang and whether a recording exists, the Song Index in this book will lead you to the answer.
If you want to know if a particular radio show or concert was recorded, this book will tell you where to find it or will confirm that it exists in private collections.
If you want to know when and where Judy sang with Vic Damone, for instance, this book will lead you to the time, the place and provide info. on available recordings.
A keepsake volume and handy reference tool for the very serious Judy collector.

A Loving and Brilliant Tribute
Judy Garland: The Day-by-Day Chronicle of a Legend will take you on an amazing journey through an incredible life of one of our most treasured legends.Mr. Schechter accomplishes what no biography has before -- a complete and yet loving history that fans and music historians will both treasure for generations to come.

A record of how HARD Judy worked.
Judy Garland worked harder than any other performer of her era.Detailing this work, as Scott Schechter does, day-by-day, does more to emphasize that work than any other biography that has been released.
What is sad is that one can predict, long before a Garland project comes out, who will like it and who will not.Does it have to do with Judy's artistry? No.Is it related to the breadth of the research? No.Is it critically reviewed based on its own merits and not on personal feelings about the author? No.
Judy Garland has, most definitely, groups (perhaps COVENS is a better word) who reject or accept a Garland project based solely on who was involved in its making.I will be the first to agree that John Fricke's Garland biography "World's Greatest Entertainer" is brilliant, and sumptuously illustrated.Steve Sanders' "Rainbow's End" is also excellent, dealing specifically with Judy's 1963-64 CBS television series (although Sanders seems almost fixated on Judy's weight throughout the book).
The recent Garland biography by Gerald Clarke was raked over the coals in a very sanctimonious manner, and one had to be private about their feelings for this book, to avoid being chastised by other Garland fans/biographers.
Well, I am not a Garland biographer.I am a collector of her memorabilia, and have been collecting for 30 years.People like myself and a VERY small handful of collectors are responsible for making ANY Garland biography have unique and rare photographs and memorabilia, whether the coven approves of it or not.
I have been around, dear readers.I know that personal feelings interfere with every single negative review of this book, or ANY Garland book.That is a part of the mystique of Judy Garland and the emotional response her art can create in an individual.Scott Schechter did what all of Garland's fans have moaned about forever.He presented a chronological perspective of how HARD Judy worked, from December 1924 through March 1969.
It is sad, shameful, and even egregious that the quality of a Garland biography, DVD, or CD release is filtered through the perceptor's own personal feelings about the individual that made it possible.
Not liking something based on who was responsible for its creation means that the individual likes Judy Garland on a conditional basis.And conditional love for Judy Garland is not love at all.It is haughty, noxious, and disgusting behavior that is in complete opposition to the attitude and message of Judy Garland the person, and Judy Garland the artist.
W. Eric Hemphill B.A., M.Ed. ... Read more

Product Description
Judy Garland was one of the greatest performers of the 20th century, whose fame and popularity have long outlasted her early death in 1969 at the age of only 47. Forever associated with the role of Dorothy in the film The Wizard of Oz and the song she sang in it, 'Somewhere over the Rainbow', the demands first of her ambitious mother and then the studio bosses effectively robbed her of a normal childhood whilst at the same time forcing her to maintain her 'girl next door' image and a punishing work schedule with near-starvation diets and amphetamines, resulting in a dependence on drugs and alcohol which finally ended her career and her life, when she died of a drug overdose in a flat in Chelsea.This new illustrated biography gives the full story of her treatment at the hands of the studios, and how widespread critical success and the devotion of her many fans failed to keep the demons in her soul at bay.One of the greatest female stars of all time, and the best-remembered singing star of Hollywood's Golden Era of musical film, nearly 40 years after her death her recordings are still available and any fragments of memorabilia are instantly collectable, proving her enduring appeal. ... Read more

Book Description
Rainbow: A Star-Studded Tribute to Judy Garland is a diverse collection of more than forty years of journalism. Filled with rare interviews, feature stories, reviews and production notes, this unique celebration takes us "over the rainbow" and straight to the heart of a Hollywood star, an enduring icon, and a timeless legend...* Michael Musto of The Village Voice analyzes the three stages of "Judy, Judy, Judy" in an illuminating foreword * MGM's press release and production notes offer a behind-the-scenes look at The Wizard of Oz * Liza Minnelli talks about her mother in an exclusive interview * Bosley Crowder, drama critic for The New York Times, contemplates Judy's dramatic comebacks * Art Buchwald interviews Judy as a temporary expatriate in Paris * Shana Alexander goes backstage with Judy for a 1961 Life magazine feature * William Goldman, Oscar-winning screenwriter, dramatizes Judy's closing night at the Palace * Lorna Luft chats candidly about her famous mother and sister * Ralph J. Gleason, co-founder of Rolling Stone, critiques the diva in concert-and the psychology of her fans * Richard Dyer, noted film historian, explores the powerful bond between Judy Garland and gay men * and much more. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Raised on Judy! How did Rick McKay KNOW?!
This book is worth the price just for the chapter, "Raised on Judy, or What Chance Did a Boy Have." I have never seen Judy written about (and I have read a LOT) which such humor and compassion - especially what it was like growing up as a kid in the mid west during her years as a fading icon. Rick McKay's chapter is mah-velous. The rest of the book is quite good and a real Garlandophile's treat, but the McKay chapter could have been my life - or many of my friends' lives as well. It is a crime that this book is out of print. I would give it for Xmas every year!

Raised on Judy! How did Rick McKay KNOW?!
This book is worth the price just for the chapter, "Raised on Judy, or What Chance Did a Boy Have." I have never seen Judy written about (and I have read a LOT) which such humor and compassion - especially what it was like growing up as a kid in the mid west during her years as a fading icon. Rick McKay's chapter is mah-velous. The rest of the book is quite good and a real Garlandophile's treat, but the McKay chapter could have been my life - or many of my friends' lives as well. It is a crime that this book is out of print. I would give it for Xmas every year!

Another Garland Book With a Slightly Different Angle
Rainbow: A Star-Studded Tribute to Judy Garland is a collection mostly consisting of magazine articles from the 1930s, '40s, '50s, '60s, and afterwards. There are a few other things, like MGM production notes for TheWizard of Oz, but it's almost all magazine excerpts, and it's interestingfinding out just what the public's perception of her was, both before andafter her death. Just don't go in looking for a deep character study.

it was an ok book
i liked the way other people had comments in there.but one thing is did they have to put the part were they think she is gay.and when they had the other people writting a story about her you sorta heard the same thingover.if anyone wants to talk just go ahead and e mail me

A fun read!
A book filled with interviews rom over the many years of her career, recollections and stories of the great Judy Garland. A truly enjoyable read! ... Read more

Product Description
A compilation of songs from her movies and concert appearances. 23 motion pictures are represented by 68 songs. Also includes B&W photographs from the films, film credits and a complete filmography and discography. Songs include: After You've Gone Any Place I Hang My Hat Is Home Be a Clown The Boy Next Door But Not for Me Come Rain or Come Shine Do I Love You Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas Hello Blue Bird I Got Rhythm I'm Just Wild About Harry Meet Me in St. Louis, Louis Over the Rainbow Singin' in the Rain That's Entertainment When You're Smiling (The Whole World Smiles with You) and more. After You've GoneAlmost Like Being In LoveAlone TogetherAm I Blue?Any Place I Hang My Hat Is HomeBe A ClownBidin' My TimeBlues In The Night (My Mama Done Tol' Me)Broadway RhythmBut Not For MeBy MyselfCome Rain Or Come ShineComes Once In A LifetimeDo I Love YouEmbraceable YouEvery Little Movement (Has A Meaning All Its Own)For Me And My GalFrom This Moment OnGet HappyHappiness Is A Thing Called JoeHave Yourself A Merry Little ChristmasHello Blue BirdHow About You?I Cried For YouI Don't CareI Feel A Song Comin' OnI Got RhythmI Happen To Like New YorkI Wish I Were In Love AgainI'm Always Chasing RainbowsI'm Just Wild About HarryIf Love Were AllIt's A Great Day For The IrishJohnny One NoteJudyJust In Tim... ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Best source for Judy's music
From all the research I have done on Judy, I have found this to be the most comprehensive source for sheet music of her songs. Unfortunately, the songs are not printed in the keys in which Judy sang them. The music requires transposing for practical use. It is also missing some obvious favorites (for example, there are no tunes from "Easter Parade," one of her more successful films), however its the best of what is out there currently. You will greatly enjoy the pictures, which also include ones from her non-musical roles.

A wonderful, comprehensive collection of Garland standards!
A must for any Garland fan or lover of wonderful piano music.Great arrangements accompanied by nice photos. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Leaves out some stuff and plays it "safe" but still excellent - long, but excellent
This is an "early" review since I haven't finished this very long book yet, but I will say that I don't like very long books (I find them daunting and time-consuming) but this one is good and holds your interest despite its detail and depth.However, I know that it leaves out certain parts already about her early life.For example, various sources (such as Marcella Rabwin, who is featured in the book prominently, and a family friend of Garland for many years) said on the E! True Hollywood Story TV program, that Judy and her sisters, mother, and father left Grand Rapids because Judy's father, Frank, had an affair with "a young man" and in those days that was "scandalous" and they "had to" move away.This story is nowhere in the book.This book also supposedly had the cooperation and the blessing of Liza and Lorna (not sure about Joe), Judy's children, so you know that despite the book's detail and depth, it's going to be "safe" with nothing too controversial that the children didn't want published.That's too bad, because for a biography to be truly inspirational (let alone just plain "accurate"), you have to include the skeletons in the closet (sorry for the pun, there, Frank).I haven't read Gerald Clarke's "Get Happy", which might include more scandalous stories.It's funny how there are 2 major Judy biographies that are very very long with authors named "Gerald"; easy to confuse the two, as I did at first.What a remarkable life; what a remarkable book. I still recommend book this highly, for Judy fans and also because I recommend biographies in general as a way for people to put their troubles in perspective, to gain inspiration from people we all "know", and as a parable to learn what to do, and not to do, to be happy in life.This would also be a great "primer" for young people to understand the history of Hollywood, or if you want a case study of a great American if you're patriotic, a great woman if you're a feminist, an unfortunate addict if you have an interest in drug and alcohol abuse issues, and a great musician/actress if you're an artist.

Judy Garland, Feminism, Hollywood
Do get this book.And you'll be swept-away into another world where a crazy-girl named Francis, aka Judy Garland, got away with all kinds of mischief and adventure.Somewhere in her kooky, chaotic, vaudeville life, she surely got the idea that it was all a show about nothing.

Judy was a passionate person, and Gerold Frank captures her spirit, her sense of humor, her highs, her dark-side and the range of her anger and inspirations."If you ever want to know who I was, listen to my songs," she said.What does one do with all that talent and energy?Frank gets into it.I think Gerold Frank does a fabulous job of filling-out the life of a human being.We sometimes forget that Judy was more than a performer.It is stunning to watch her films, knowing what was going on behind the scenes, how she was consistently exploited.She was young.People never had psychological terms for boundaries in those days, so she continued to remain a somewhat open and exploited person, "performing" right up to her death.And she was damn-angry in the end.

Judy had no outlet for her anger, except to strike out at things, objects and people.She was at a loss to know how to care, because she was never taught or given models of respect.So she stopped caring and began to take advantage of situations and people as a method of personal survival.This was the thing that alienated her from her children.Deep down, she didn't want to be this.So she let them go, and consequentially, a little bit of her self, as well.Bipolar disease is very difficult to manage without these psychological skills.

Judy never really had much of a chance to be anything than what she was.This happens to actors and people who need to showcase themselves in public:they get stuck.She learned how to play the victim.She just reached a point where she quit defending herself about it, that's all.Was Judy a bitch and a diva?Those were roles she took on, in the victim-mode.Women in those days were acculturated to be subservient, and therefore victims and blamers.If one is physically and mentally challenged, one needs help.Judy never got the right help and couldn't find it.Yet she always reserved a soft spot in her heart.She held on to her theme song, Over the Rainbow, and cherished it.So we have to look to someone like Gerold Frank, who is able to dig down under all this, and finds her; a woman who had a heart, and who was aching to share it with us, in spite of everything.

IT REVEALS JUDY THE HUMAN BEING!
Never mind other books on the subject, icluding Lorna Luft`s "Me and My Shadows - living with the legacy of Judy Garland"...

THIS IS IT! This is the definitive biography. The detail is amazing and Gerald Frank is by far the only one who has captured Judy the woman and not ONLY the star. John Fricke`s "The World`s Greatest Entertainer" is good, but a tribute to a star, up there somewhere..... It`s written by a fan and good as it is, it sadly looks perspective.

This must NEVER be out of print and belongs to every library in the world. Indeed, I thought I knew evrything about Judy(I`ve been a fan since 1977), but THIS book is filling in holes I NEVER KNEW EXCISTED!

Thanks a LOT, Gerald Frank:-)This book i s of Pulitzer Prize calibre, although I realise a biography will never be given that honour...

BEST JUDY GARLAND BIOGRAPHY WRITTEN!!!!
Gerold Frank has taken a subject of innumerable facets, a larger-than-life personality, and an almost indescribable talent and has put the history of her life to words as no writer before or since has been able to accomplish. Judy Garland, one of the silver screen's most beloved stars, is accurately and honestly conveyed in this biography. Frank's style is unique: when he tells of the tradgedies or failures of the star, he is not incriminating against the subject. Frank's book is one as written by an observer, sometimes voyueristically so. His thorough research bring Garland through in all her glory: as the vaudeville headliner, the little girl on the rise to stardom, the MGM superstar, loving wife and mother, and the sometimes self-destructive woman, taken from this earth too soon by the disease brought on by a lifetime of pills, but most of all, the woman trying to find her place in the world and the love she always craved and needed. Judy Garland is a human being, not a media figure, in this book. Gerold Frank is to be well commended for his excellent portrayal of Judy Garland, and readers will also be delighted or surprised by the informative tidbits along this Yellow Brick Road into the life of the great Judy Garland.

Garland Under The Microscope
Gerold Frank's biography is probably the single most comprehensive book written concerning Judy Garland: meticulously researched, debunking many myths, and richly detailed, it is certainly a standard for any one seriously interested in Garland.Even so, I have several issues with the book.

My single greatest complaint about the book is that Frank often seems to include detail for the sake of detail, and at times these details don't seem to make any cohesive statement.That aside, while Frank places Garland under a microscope, he never really quite delivers any sense of the world in which she moved; consequently, we never really have any background against which we may judge her.There is no context.

These are serious flaws, and while the book is certainly readable and enjoyable, I do not think it is one to which the average reader would return, nor would I particularly recommend it to any but the toughest of hard-core Garland fans. ... Read more

Amazon.com
Like his renowned Capote, Clarke's Get Happy is an addictively readable bio of an addict genius. We learn that it wasn't just the Hollywood moguls who mangled Judy Garland's soul. Yes, MGM's Louis B. Mayer did paw her teenage breasts, exacerbate her insecurity by calling her "my little hunchback," feed her uppers and downers ("bolts and jolts"), and repel the U.S. drug czar's personal attempt to get her into rehab. But the true villain was Judy's diabolical stage mom, Ethel Gumm, who fed her pills at age 9. Judy's heart belonged to her daddy, a kindly theater owner cursed with pederastic yearnings that evidently got the family run out of various towns, once by a man named Doc Savage. Daddy died young, and Judy kept hooking up with older men, including two probably gay husbands, one of whom cheated on her with her daughter Liza's husband. Her first best girlfriend in Hollywood (and probable lover) turned out to be a studio spy. She knew at least one of her agents, nicknamed Loeb and Leopold, robbed her blind, but since betrayal was everybody's way of life, she just laughed it off--and died dead broke. Judy cheated on Liza's dad (and her own great director) Vincente Minnelli, with still-handsome Orson Welles, who was cheating on Rita Hayworth. "People like me don't grow up easily," Judy once said. Most people in this book deserved to go up in flames, but only nice Margaret Hamilton, playing the Wicked Witch of the West, actually did so in a filming accident. She recovered; Judy didn't. It's fascinating to read about Judy's self-immolating life. But for a jolt of joy afterward, I prescribe the CD Judy at Carnegie Hall. Clarke lets you know what the songs cost, and what they mean. --Tim AppeloBook Description
She lived at full throttle on stage, screen, and in real life, with highs that made history and lows that finally brought down the curtain at age forty-seven. Judy Garland died over thirty years ago, but no biography has so completely captured her spirit -- and demons -- until now.

From her tumultuous early years as a child performer to her tragic last days, Gerald Clarke reveals the authentic Judy in a biography rich in new detail and unprecedented revelations. Based on hundreds of interviews and drawing on her own unfinished -- and unpublished -- autobiography, Get Happy presents the real Judy Garland in all her flawed glory.

With the same skill, style, and storytelling flair that made his bestselling Capote a landmark literary biography, Gerald Clarke sorts through the secrets and the scandals, the legends and the lies, to create a portrait of Judy Garland as candid as it is compassionate.

Here are her early years, during which her parents sowed the seeds of heartbreak and self-destruction that would plague her for decades ... the golden age of Hollywood, brought into sharp focus with cinematic urgency, from the hidden private lives of the movie world's biggest stars to the cold-eyed businessmen who controlled the machine ... and a parade of brilliant and gifted men -- lovers and artists, impresarios and crooks -- who helped her reach so many creative pinnacles yet left her hopeless and alone after each seemingly inevitable fall.

Here, then, is Judy Garland in all her magic and despair: the woman, the star, the legend, in a riveting saga of tragedy, resurrection, and genius. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (80)

Come On, Get Crappy
I agree, this is a mean-spirited book.I use it occasionally for reference, since it is one of the most modern issues on Judy's life...But I think it says more about the author than his subject.I have a problem with someone who needs to tear women down.I get no sense of compassion from Clarke for the performer whatsoever.Further, the writing approach is clinical and nasty (which some people enjoy).I felt that was the focus, and it overlooked some valid points contributing to who Judy was.For one thing, she was an artist who hauled herself from one end of the planet to the other, giving live performances all her life.No less, she wore high-heeled shoes, which is not all that great for a woman who is perimenopausal, and just popped-out 3 kids.I never see any writers mentioning that!From the time she was a kid, she was the bread-winner for all her family members, trusted the wrong people, never had the right kind of management, and basically dropped-dead doing the only thing that gave her a sense of power and self in the world:singing. It's so fun being female!From the perspective of a feminist (me) who understands there are thousands of women out there, young and old, who have no idea how to command respect in their lives, this story is sad and pathetic.Judy never wanted it that way.She knew she was a victim of the chauvinism of times.From the time she was two, she was groomed to be a people-pleaser.She did whatever she had to, to make things work.In the end, she saw herself as nothing more than a "singing piece of meat".So from that angle, you might find something interesting here, and learn from it.

authentic personality portrait
This was a powerful book, skillfully written. I cannot verify that all of the facts are accurate, and I did wonder how the author found out so much about Mr. Gumm's private life, for example. What struck me as completely authentic is the author's portrayal of Ms. Garland's personality and behavior--mainly because he does not take the step of analyzing it in the psychiatric sense. I personally think that her behavior is a fairly classic case of bipolar disorder, exacerbated by the pills she took and the fact that she was in a business that has extreme highs and lows itself. Clarke never tells the reader this; he might not have been aware of the parallels to the characteristics of someone with a bipolar disorder. The fact that he draws this rich picture while not trying to convince the reader of his "diagnosis" gives this an authentic feel. Clarke does not seem to set out to prove Garland was bipolar, but his descriptions of her behavior seem to support that hypothesis.

I was equally impressed with the author's pacing. The shock of Judy Garland's early and untimely death is echoed in the way the book is written--it ends abruptly, as did her life.

I definitely recommend it.

Gripping read could benefit from a photo insert or two
It's all here:the tumultuous and suffocatingly pressure-ridden childhood; the tragic and naive crushes on gay (or unavailable) men; the fantastic, stellar performances; the unstoppable addiction to pills and alcohol--all in one neatly compact, albeit somewhat gossipy, read.This book is well researched and accessibly written, and gives a fair nod to Judy's roots, delving ever so lightly into her background, and her parents (as well as grandparents). My only complaints are there should be more photos nestled within, and I would have enjoyed reading more about her interactions with her children, especially Liza, in what should have been her middle age.The light treatment of later years made me feel as if the author was anxious to wrap the book up, giving only a cursory glimpse into the post-Syd times...Overall, however, this is a largely empathetic, if not accurate, portrayal of one of the 20th century's greatest performers.Judy's story will touch your heart.

A model of extreme economy
I normally don't write short reviews, but this biography, without question, is the most finely written work of its genre ever written. I have read several thousand books, and in this book I would cut only two words. There are very few big words (shades of Hemenway), because there doesn't need to be.

"Get Happy" Review
Everything you ever wanted to know about Judy Garland. A complete historical and psychological profile, yet still easy to read. Very interesting. ... Read more

Book Description
A celebration of the actress who stole America's heart, this is the definitive book about the legendary Judy Garland, with reflections by the people who knew her best. In a career that spanned five decades and encompassed stardom in every medium, Judy Garland's professional achievements remain unsurpassed. Now her timeless joy comes alive in JUDY GARLAND: A PORTRAIT IN ART ANECDOTE. Hundreds of rare and previously unpublished photographs, studio memorabilia, and personal mementos from the family archives, along with scores of anecdotes drawn from interviews with her professional colleagues, friends, family, and Judy herself, showcase her on- and off-stage 'talent to amuse.'Decade by decade, her incomparable accomplishments on stage, film, television, radio, and recordings are lovingly illustrated and remembered by those who knew her best. Often funny, sometimes poignant, but always fascinating, this book singularly conveys the happiness that Garland's own great and buoyantly emotional performances have brought to hundreds of millions of admirers. Anyone who ever enjoyed a Garland song will revel in this glowing, lavishly illustrated tribute. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (41)

A magnificent look at the performer and wonderful woman behind it
This is a wonderful, wonderful, wonderful book about the life and career of "Miss Showbusiness" Judy Garland. This was the first real book on Judy I read and what an excellent way to begin. I had vagually known that the many stories about Judy were disgusting lies. Now John Fricke (after his other great book) now puts Judy in her proper place, I wanted to get to know the woman better and this book did better than that. I actually felt that I was there with Judy, experencing her warmth, joy and laughter with her in her personal life and watching her perform on the sets of films, live in concert and on her tv series. I actually got to know Judy from this book and I loved her.

Stories about Judy are often innaccurate but this book (and a few others) are the real deal. Most biographers like to think that Judy was a tragic figure and her life was a hopeless ride to despair and degredation.

But this book changed all that, Fricke brilliantly captures Judy Garland as her friends, family and co-workers knew her, as a bright, intelligent, witty human being and also a affectionate, kind and caring lady who happened to be one of the most talented performers to grace this earth.

Well done, Mr. Fricke and thank you.

Picture galore!
As a relatively new fan to Judy, I bought this book mainly due to the positive reviews here on Amazon, and Amazon writers never fail. This book is truly fantastic. With more rare pictures than you can shake a stick at, most of them at better-than-good quality, too. These pictures, complete to extensive captions and quotes by the people who knew Judy, span her entire lifetime. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and indeed these pictures speak more plainly to the reader than even the most comprehensive biography. Judy Garland was a phenomenal talent, and what a pleasure to have such a wonderful book devoted to this true star.

Judy, Judy, Judy!
The rare photographs in this book are worth the purchase price alone! John Fricke seems to know more about Judy Garland than probably most of her family and friends. You'll come away with a new appreciation of this talented and troubled woman.

This book is a must-have for all Garland and Oz fans!!

Great Photos
This book gave me a refreshing and rare look at Judy Garland's life through pictures.The most interesting ones were of her behind the scenes, with family or rehearsing.These are ones of her behind the scenes laughing and dancing with people like Gene Kelly.So any fan of the classic musicals would enjoy these photos.
You get to be a witness to what an extraordinary person she was not only on the screen, but off, and in person.There are great quotes from people who knew her, all of them saying how she really was unique and a one-of-a-kind class act.She did have a hard life but I like the way this book doesn't seem to focus on that at all.The focal point of this book is to show the great points of her life that fans will enjoy seeing and that's good enough for me.
It's great to see her in her prime and with some of the top stars of the day.It shows the excitement in Hollywood and their lives in that era, and how she was in the very midst of all of it.
Any Judy Garland fan, really anyone, will enjoy this look at Judy Garland's life through photos.It really is a book that makes you want to look at it over and over again.

Five stars for one of our brightest and loneliest stars
She's reviving her career, she's in London with a troubled marriage that's fodder for the tabloids...no, we're not speaking of Liza Minnelli, mega-talented daughter of "Dorothy Gale from Kansas," but of "Baby Gumm," Frances Gumm, who you might have heard of as Judy Garland.

In a memorable scene from the 2001 miniseries "Life With Judy Garland: Me and My Shadows," a frustrated Garland, played to perfection by Judy Davis, shouts into the phone, "Yes, I've heard how difficult it is to work with Judy Garland. Do you know how difficult it is to be Judy Garland? I've been trying to be Judy Garland all my life!" In the foreword to Judy Garland: A Tribute In Art And Anecdote, Garland's daughter Lorna Luft echoes this sentiment in as loving a tribute to her mother as the miniseries, based on Luft's own published memoir, and as reverent yet observant as John Fricke's stunning, definitive, human, glowing, not-in-the-least-fawning encomium on Garland's life.You'll love the posters, photographic portrait of entertainment history, drawings, and "home movie" photos of the private Garland.Garland's children, flawed and loving, gave her added complexity as a working mom heroine. To quote the title of one of her movies, "I Could Go On Singing." In Fricke's book, she does just that.



... Read more

Product Description
All the films, songs, concerts, and TV appearances in the career of Judy Garland. Illustrated by B&W PHOTOS ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

fine look at the life and times of the immortal Judy Garland
The Stormy Life Of Judy Garland by Christopher Finch is quite a page turner! The book is well written--in fact, this book is so well written that you just can't put it down. Finch manages to pull his readers into the story of Judy Garland's life with power and skill. Even those of us who are not diehard Garland fans will want to read this book from front to back practically without stopping.

The book is filled with facts, anecdotes, stories from Judy's contemporaries, and great and black and white photos of Judy. We also get numerous photos of Judy with her immediate family members. The photos of Judy onstage both during her years at MGM and during her concert years are stupendous.

One thing that a diehard Garland fan may not care for is that this book does not try to water down or whitewash Garland's personal and professional problems. Although great care is taken to tell vividly of her countless triumphs, there is equal care given to her failures and her human idiosyncrasies.

However, after all is said and done, you still come away with the impression that Judy Garland was truly a wonderfully talented living legend; I would have loved to see her perform in public based on what I read in Finch's book. Finch does love Judy Garland; but he tries to be as honest as he knows how to tell the whole story--good, not so good, and in-between.

This book may be out of print but do not make the mistake of thinking that this means the book is devoid of insight. Finch writes with remarkably good insight into what made Judy Garland a huge success as well as what brought her down on certain occasions. Judy Garland fans would do well to get this book and read this fascinating account of the life and times of the immortal Judy Garland.

"I'm Dorothy!" - Judy Garland
This book was first published in the early -70's right after Judy's death.I was 14 years old when I picked it up.And yes, it was a little too raw for me at the time.There was something dark in the feel of the book, something I couldn't allow myself to look into until 30 years later, at the age of 44.Then, I felt I was ready.Christopher Finch is not just writing about Judy, he's writing about an era of performance when you consider Judy made albums through the 1930's, '40's, '50's and '60's.

He paints a vivid picture of her family background, the tension between Judy's parents and her slow-build to overnight fame.With that comes a descriptive view of the relationship Judy had with her mother, and you find that the girl was never nurtured, but found ways to nurture herself through food.Because Judy was pushed around like a dumb animal until it was time to sing, she overcompensated by sneaking around.And thus, she fell into the trap that lying establishes.(Judy had a large following of gay male fans, who had some emotional identity with her repression and neediness.This becomes a pattern in her relationships with men, throughout her life.) For although her tendency to lie and sneak allowed her some privacy, it became a form of mania and self-destructiveness that was, for the most part, covert.It was very convenient for all those around her!Judy learned to keep herself in-check at an early age, never doing anything that might threaten someone else's comfort level (it would be bad publicity).Of course, as Mark Twain used to say "you can't pray a lie."

Polarized throughout her 20's, Judy kept operating under the belief that someone, preferably a man, would reach out and save her from herself.She was attracted to men she felt safe with, many whom were gay or bisexual.That's how it had always worked out for her mother...A man would always be there on the basis of need.This book offers a great collection of photos and an absorbing, educational read.You can glean much about the trends at MGM, the Mickey and Judy days, and what it was that made America so much "fun" during war time.This book gives some clues as to the relationship Louis B. Mayer had with the government, you see, because he was rich.Judy operated under that weight as well, and became the archetypal Hollywood gal-pal.Her ability to try different approaches to dramatic film, her overlooked comedic timing, her relationship with her own children and her concert tours are all adequately covered in such a way that makes this great reading.Again, Finch was writing at the time when the term bipolar was not known or used.He could not give that aspect of Judy's condition the justice that's needed.What he does do is describe the trends in her family history, and with the suicides of her two sisters who were also "performers".On that note, he braves new frontiers most writers would not attempt at the time.I believe he touches a little on the riot at Stonewall, and it's connection to Judy's funeral.Contrasting photos to how she looked in her final days, to the beginning days in Vaudville.I feel women should read this book, just to think about how far we have come.Judy was old enough to be my grandmother, and my grandmothers emulated and loved her.My mother rocked us to all Judy's songs.I have two large 10 X 12 editions of this book, and have handed out several of the smaller copies to friends.

Mean-spirited.....
After reading the glowing reviews of the 4 other people here, I could not wait to get hold of this book.

Well......the photos are terrific.But there is something very mean-spirited and melodramatic about the way the author presents Judy Garland's life.I can't quite put my finger on it.......you'll have to read it yourself to get a feel for his attitude.I'm really in the minority in my opinion on this one, but I felt I should balance the opinions of a great percentage of readers who consider this the best biography of Judy Garland.I get the feeling the author did not really like his subject.He treats her like some kind of bizarre creature.If she was difficult, to a certain extent, her demanding life and out-size talent made her so.Read it yourself, and make your own decision, however!

Great Garland Biography
With appropriate candor and reserve, Christopher Finch not only presents Judy's life and work, but examines every piece of information he receives with level-headedness and occasional suspicion. This is no sugar-sweet fanletter to Judy, this is an almost scholarly approach to her extraordinary life. Especially fine insight is given to her earlier years and childhood surroundings, allowing the reader a glimpse into what may have possibly impacted Judy's psyche later on in her life.

Judy Garland, born Frances Ethel Gumm, lived an incredible life, her career spanning every field of show business from film to radio to live performance. Name any award of performing arts, and she's won it: Oscar, Grammy, Tony, Golden Globe...the list goes on. In her short 47 years, she managed to attain the status of "living legend", and still continues to delight generation after generation in her enduring film and record work. However, her life was not the fairy tale story of a show business princess. It was filled with tragedy, hardship, and soaring joys. She had basically no childhood, most likely addicted to pills at the tender age of 15 due to her exhausting work schedule, was forced to abort her first child, and was always belittled and made to believe she was not beautiful. How amazing is it that a person subjected to such sorrows could bring joy to millions and millions of people? And even at the tragic end, she retained a fabulous sense of humor and derring-do for life. In my opinion, one of the century's three best singers (along with Edith Piaf and Sinatra). She could sing the lyrics of a page and make you believe every word of it.

(wow, I've wandered off-topic, back to the book now)

In conclusion, a light and quick read, Finch's meticulously researched biography is excellent for the straight facts of Judy's life and career with an occasional aside from the author. Highly recommended for any budding Garland fan (or anyone in general).

The Best of Garland Biographies
It is a shame that this book is currently out of print, for it is to my mind the only completely satisfying biography of entertainer Judy Garland available.Finch not only writes about Garland's life in well researched, eloquent prose, his work also provides a broad overview of the world and times in which Garland both worked and lived, with considerable reference to those who shaped her personality and her art, and who contributed to both public and private successes and failings.Truly a masterpiece of the biography genre, drenched with seldom-seen photographs as well. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Sad but yes, true
I finally bought a copy of this book - and it is disturbing to read.Judy Garland's body and brain were shorting out from the excess of pills (speed) and alcohol she was consuming in 1968 - but she was still trying to live life to the fullest: experiencing new things, seeing new places, meeting new people.The pills scrambled her thoughts and made her act irrational at times - but she still went on!Meyer gives us a first hand account of this period of Judy's life: it is sad, happy, shocking, and quite interesting.I remember seeing Judy on TV during this period of time: Mike Douglas Show, then Merv Griffin, Johnny Carson.She seemed to be getting worse and worse.I remember thinking: What is going on with Judy?She seems confused.Now I know what was going on - thanks to this book.In closing - let me say this - even at her worst (Merv's appearance was quite something, as I remember) - I loved Judy - what a brilliant talent! - I wish she was still with us.

Hard to believe Meyer
I am one of those fans that understand that Judy had her good days and bad days and accept the good as well as the bad about my favorite person.This book was nothing but a way for John Meyer to say that he "screwed" (to put it lightly) Judy in a hospital bed.It's a shame that people feel that they need to make up stories to make them look better and even make money off of it.The book is only interesting if you're into reading explicit details about sex between two people but who knows if it even happened.Other books about Judy do not even mention that she had a relationship with this man.Anyway, read it if you want but take it with a HUGE grain of salt.

FAN MEETS -BEDS-and (ALMOST) WEDS a STAR
I have read every book written about the amazing Judy Garland. I happen to love this book. (For Garland fans who idolize Judy and feel she could do no wrong, this is not the book for you.) This book is the story of a 30-something struggling songwriter, living with his parents who makes a living playing show tunes in local New York piano bar. He also composes music, writes lyrics and has a pet project, a script for his play called "The Draft Dodger."New York is filled with thousands of hopefuls just like him.What makes his story extraordinary is how he graduated from stuggling hopeful to (minor)celebrity in less than two months simply because of a chance meeting with Judy Garland. In the fall of 1968, Judy Garland was at her lowest point: she had no money, she was heavily in debt to the IRS for back taxes, she couldn't get a booking because her music arrangments were being held until she paid money she owed, her dependence on prescription drugs was worsening, her former husbands, lovers, and even her children had abandoned her because of her erratic behavior created by the drugs, and her health was declining.One of the fans/hangers-on who surrounded Judy during this period was going to plan a new show with new songs so Judy could work again, and decided John Meyer might have some suitable material. On the night he met Judy, Meyer was so enthralled with her that they snuck out of the fan's home (while the fan was in the shower) had dinner together and spent the night together at Meyer's parents home. ... This is a fascinating story, written in a diary style format, which indeed gives the impression of reading someone's private diary. I have spoken with Garland fans who knew Judy, Meyer and Deans during this period of time and was told that Meyer's story is quite accurate. Most telling through all of this is that Judy, although at her lowest point, was telling funny stories, laughing and enjoying herself despite such adverse conditions. This is a book you won't easily forget! As a footnote, Meyer later dated singer Margaret Whiting (who knew Judy) and she made positive comments regarding their relationship.

You'll Learn a Lot about Judy's Last Days
You will discover much about the latter-day Judy Garland
from John Meyer's book, actually a diary, about the legendary
performer. The only false note is the frequent sexual aspect
of it. It is improbable that the sexually ambiguous Meyer, (...),"screwed" the star. Everything else seems vivid and true and puts you there with Meyer and
Garland, as a "fly on the wall." It is a well-written diary
that will surely offend the diva-worshippers who wouldn't want

to know about Judy's appalling habits, i.e. kleptomania, selfishness, gulping pills and booze, and "two-hour make-up jobs." On the plus side, it offers us a close-up glimpse at a very, very sharp-witted and funny woman. Looking back at this
brief "affair" of the late-60s, you get a pang of sadness that
the ambitious Meyer never made it as songwriter. If you've
heard his songs, "I'd Like to Hate Myself in the Morning," or
"After the Holidays," you will understand why. His music
is middling to awful, and his only claim to fame will be his
Judy book, one of many, many, many written by husbands,
friends, associates, professional writers and fans. This one
is excellent in that you'll find out things you didn't know,
as opposed to rehashing the usual well-documented trivia.

Oh dear John Meyer what have you done?
This book is terible wriiten, We have an insight to Judy as a caring person In some ways. Unfortuantly as One other reviewer put it, this bookIS just someone telling the world that he had sex with Judy Garland, IFthat is in effect true, there is actually no evidence that anything betweenthe two happened.

If you do buy this book, )but personally I would saydont waste your money) read it with an open mind.

but its not a goodbook, another terrible attempt to tarnish our legend! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

One of my favorite books
John Fricke has written a celebration of Judy, with fun photos and inspirational montages of who Judy was, and how she changed with the years.Judy had an indomnitable spirit, it was her soul that was weighted down with bad karmic connections and stigmas she always fought to transcend.Some clues about this were the decision Judy's mother had to make about Judy's birth; and how the doctor intervened.So I think John Fricke captures this dynamic in this book, where is it possible to witness how a spirit survived in a material world.

Brilliant
This is a marvellous book, John Fricke writes of Judy Garland's career in great detail while also dispelling the old myths of tempermental and mean spirited behaviour that other Garland biographers presented as fact.

Here is Judy in all of her glory as the great entertainer she always was (and still is) and as mentioned earlier blows away the myths that have plagued Judy for so long, it shows Judy's effort to rise above problems and give her all, wether it is when she is performing or showing her love to her friends, co-workers and her children.

Buy this book now with another John Fricke title on Judy, 'A Portrait of art and Anecdote'. Forget people like Gerald Clarke and his innaccurate look at Judy's life and Mel Torme for his self-serving and also innaccurate look at the legend. Buy this book but quick.

THE BOOK HAS NO PEERS
I bought it during Christmas in 1992... And u know what; It`s the definitive book on Judy!!!It really is an open love-letter 2 the Great 1 From 1 Of Her Fans....At times u might say that John Fricke is glorifying Judy - but I don`t mind... It`s the kind of book u would want if u were on a desert island(with the CD`s "Judy at Carnegie Hall", "The London Sessions" and the "25th Retrospective"(compiled by Fricke) and the films "The Wizard Of Oz", "Meet Me in St. Louis", "The Pirate", "Easter Parade", "In the Good Old Summertime", "Summer Stock", "A Star is Born"(just 4 the musical scenes) and "I Could Go On Singing" - her BEST dramatic performance!! And The DVD collection of her 1963-64 TV-series...

Come 2 think of it... With THIS book and her music and films... I THINK I wouldn`t have noticed the palms, animals and ocean surrounding me on that island hehehehe

One of the all-time great books about the magnificent JUDY!
Along with Gerold Frank's 1975 biography "JUDY", John Fricke's book THE WORLD'S GREATEST ENTERTAINER is the definitive book about the sensational talent and fascinating life of the legendary lady. Fricke has done the research that no one before him could do to really give a broad insight into the career that has made Garland an icon. Beautifully written and handsomely illustrated, this is a book for the ages, and a must-have for any Garland fan. Anyone who doesn't love this book clearly hasn't a clue what great books are all about.

Judy: The World's Greatest Entertainer!
This book is simply marvelous!This book has hundreds and hundreds of crisp, clear pictures of Judy, many not previously published!
This book covers Judy's entire carear, from her first performace at age two until her death on June 22, 1969!This book is packed full of both black and white and color pictures!
All of her movies are covered in this book, as well as her hundreds of concerts particually the landmark concert on April 23, 1961 at Carnigie Hall! Also covered is her 1963- 1964 television show on CBS: The Judy Garland Show!
If your looking for information on Judy's career, this definatly is the right book for you! Or if your looking for lots and lots of pictures of Miss Garland and all her movies, this is still the right book for you!
If you just love Judy in any way at all, and want more information on her life, this is the book to buy! ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (3)

Judy Garland
You don't have to be a Judy Garland fan to enjoy these paper dolls.The likenesses on all three dolls are superb.The last doll showing Miss Garland towards the end of her career captures the passion she expressed when performing.
Costumes from most of Judy Garland's famous films are included.Tom Tierney's drawings of the costumes from "The Wizard of Oz" (with her friends in the background), "Meet Me in St.Louis" and "The Pirate" were my favorites.

Garland is GRAND!!
TOM TIERNEYS PAPER DOLLS OF JUDY ARE BEAUTIFUL.THE COSTUMES ARE DETAILED IF NOT ALL HER BEST.tHE WIZARD OF OZ DRAWING CONTAINS A LESSER BACKGROUND ADDITION OF HER OZ COHORTS THAT ISN'T AS WELL DRAWN AS THE COSTUME WHICH IS THE BOOKS ONLY FLAW.EACH DOLL WELL REPRESENTS EACH STAGE OF HER CAREER.IT IS A GEM FOR CELEBRITY COLLECTORS LIKE I AM TO FIND A LINE OF CELEBRITY DOLLS LIKE TIERNEY HAS DONE.HE IS A GIFTED ARTIST

A great, FUN, collectible for any Garland fan!
These are really great and so much fun! There are costumes from each of her movies (including Every Sunday) included. They are vividly colored and match the actual costumes to a "T" Truly a great collectible. Buy two because you'll want to keep one nice and play with the other. :o) ... Read more

Customer Reviews (30)

Buyer Beware
The authors conclude that Garland's untimely death - in fact it wasn't untimely at all since everyone expected her to die given what a wreck she had become - was her best career move.This is sheer blasphemy.If anything is clear, it is that Judy Garland had nothing but talent and not just, as the lyric goes and the authors point up, "a talent to amuse," but a great big stunning talent that hypnotised anyone who paid attention.It is not only nonsense but debasing to imply that a tragic and early death is a reason why anyone would still watch Garland movies, or listen to Garland songs.The fanatics, described by these authors in such detail to the point where you would believe they were Garland's only fans, are a small minority.Most of us love the songs, the sound and the thrill of her talent, not the creepiness of her demise or even the so-called tragedy of her yearnings to be "over the rainbow."If there was anything boring about Garland it was that oft-repeated why-oh-why-can't-I line, which even she admitted had worn very thin, having told Liza that sympathy was her "business" as an explanation for why she receive so many get-well cards all the time.If one listens to the Carnegie Hall album, it's not because she pulled herself up once again, but because the actual product is so alluringly good in the first place.

When there are such glorious testaments about Judy Garland from a long list of legendary personalities including Gene Kelly, Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire, the authors dig deep in the barrel to drag out a nasty slap from the likes of Moire Shearer (Who?Right, I had to look her up, long-forgotten if she was ever remembered in the first place) blasting Garland's worth into hell.At least the quote from Anita Loos (Again, another unfamiliar name except to those who take note of screenwriters from the 40s and 50s) was wry and amusing, "she was so boring about her life," she says.Well, we can all imagine that to be true, especially in hindsight and in view of the current familiarity with addicted and neurotic people.But boy could she sing.And act.And dance.

Given their lack of appreciation and understanding of the subject, why did these two authors write this biography?Buyers beware.

A person is not a human-doing.
I didn't have a problem with this book; in fact, I enjoyed it.It was a little deflated because it was not filled with all the normal tripe you read about Judy Garland's personal life.It's not easy to syphon-off the personal from the professional in Judy's life.This book made that attempt, and I'm okay with it.Sometimes the lite-touch is sufficient.We don't need to know about how many times Judy dunked her head in a toilet.I think, if Judy had lived to talk about her days in rehab, or what have you, she would have preferred to be remembered as someone who gave her everything to the fans.And she would have told the tripe-writers to buzz-off.I think Judy would choose this book to represent herself, uh-huh!At the end of her life, she was fed-up with hype.I think this book offers a simple, uncomplicated profile of an extremely intense life in the eye of the public.By the end of her life, when she was putting in phone calls to President Kennedy for validation and approval, it must have occurred to her that the personal is political.She experienced this downfall with her TV show, and was somber.

This collection is more focused on her long-time career, with excellent, clear photos, outlining the years of her performances, movies and concert projects.So from that angle, it could be anti-climatic.But I found it to be a light, entertaining read that left no heaviness.Something you could sit and drink your coffee with.It's a fun book for the serious collector.

Poorly Written Garbage!
This is a terribly written book! The inaccuracies have already been addressed by others, so I won't repeat them.Suffice to say the inaccuracies became so numberous, I stopped reading at page 38.Did the writers even bother to research anything?Was the editor asleep? Nice pictures, but don't bother buying this turkey.

A vicious piece of garbage
Obviously the authors are ripping off Judy's name for the money. What other excuse can there be for writing this piece of crap? At first I was happy to see another Judy book hit the market - especially one with such lovely photos.But after I started to read it, I was horrified. As I browsed through the text, I got sick. I am shamed to even admit I have this book in my collection. What a vicious piece of garbage! And these authors have the nerve to say they love Judy...

have just bought the book
I ordered this book from the store and am getting it tomorrow (tuesday 6th jan 04). I am now very dissapointed that i ordered this book because after reading everyones reviews i feel i have wasted money on it and i havent even read it yet.
when i go to collect this book and i am going to order the lorna luft book that everyone keeps recommending.
I was very much looking forward to reading this book but now i dont think i can be bothered.
i loved judy garland dearly. i am only 16 and think she was such a wonderful actress and one of the best singers i think i have ever seen. I would like to apologise to everyone that the writers of this book are british (atleast i think they are... thats what someone said) and would also like to point out that not all brits are like that and many of us love judy garland as much as all other fans.
may you rest in piece judy! ... Read more

Book Description
Note: Also available in HARDCOVER from Amazon.com

“I've had a very happy life...really, I have!” - Judy Garland

Unfortunately, from the many projects produced about Judy, you would never know it.

While a number of biographies have been published detailing Judy's life, most all have concentrated on her later years and have provided an inaccurate and distorted image of the star, her life and her career. In fact, previous Judy Garland biographies are far more interesting for the information that they leave out, rather than for that which they put in! No one can deny the very real sadness and struggle that Judy faced at distinct points in her life, yet that same life was also full of much joy and happiness. Judy Garland, The Golden Years captures that joy and happiness and stands in sharp contrast to both past and present Garland works in a variety of ways:

• Provides an honest, factual account of Judy's early life and MGM career that is loving, sensitive, respectful and appropriate for all readers.

• Features a foreword and a chapter written by Margaret O'Brien, beloved child star who starred with Judy in Meet Me in St. Louis. This is the one and only Judy book to which she has ever personally contributed.

•Includes family photos, documents, letters and diaries dating from 1727, as well as a detailed family history and family tree. There are also first time contributions from family members who have never contributed to any Judy project before.

• Includes a complete MGM filmography, a DECCA discography, a film music history, a detailed recap of Judy's radio appearances through this period, an early publicity photo section, a headlines section, as well as separate chapters on The Wizard of Oz and Meet Me in St. Louis.

• Is illustrated with over 600 new, original, most previously unpublished, photos from Judy's life that show the light in her eyes, the dazzle in her smile and the joy in her being. • Contains unique, original collectibles including personal documents and letters as well as vintage posters, novelties, advertising and other memorabilia.

Whether you first met Judy Garland as Andy Hardy's sidekick while sitting through a Saturday matinee, fell in love with her at the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair or traveled down the yellow brick road with her while sitting in front of your family's television set, Judy Garland, The Golden Years will provide you with the story of the real Judy Garland, a woman who was good and kind, honest and sincere, who was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, friend and mother, who did the best she could in all situations, who, time and time again, would not allow herself to be defeated, who picked herself up and started over, who loved her children more than anything else and always tried to do the best by and for them and who, most of all, will always be remembered for bringing joy to millions of people the world over.

What more could anyone ask from a life - and a definite happy one at that ... Read more

Customer Reviews (35)

Poor quality photo reproduction
This comes off as a fan magazine type publication; other than the Margaret O'Brien intro, there's really not much that is intimately Judy here. The photos are mainly poor quality; many are reproductions from newspaper type quality. Save your money and buy another Judy book; Scott Schecter, Gerold Frank, and many more that blow this one away.

Fabulous work
A nice look at a great woman. Thank you. I've already read it twice.

I am a BIG Judy Garland fan
I have read every Judy Garland bio out there. This is one of the top ones to read. Very well-done. Kudos.

A worthwhile study
Judy Garland has, of course, been greatly overdone, but this author manages to present the actress and singer in an entirely new light. It is an interesting, enjoyable read. There are many new things presented and many new facts and many new pictures. There is none of the sensantionalistic stupidty that marks other Judy Garland books.

One of the BEST
This is squarely a terrific book on Judy Garland. I have been trying to get it for a while and finally succeeded. It was worth the wait. It is really, really good. It has more information than you could imagine. More photos, facts and lots of interesting material. Get it fast. You will love it. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Truly a life lived with passion on her own terms.
I LOVED this book.I am working an encyclopedia of great women musicians of the 20th century and in doing research this was one of the first biographies I read and it is the best so far.It dismisses all the flowery wordage biographers like to use to put action into a story and make it more dramatic, it reads like a documentary and I like that.Proof is in the bibliography which is one of the more extensive ones I've seen on Judy.

Shipman's book reads like a documentary, which I love, and yet I often found myself hungry for more.I kept waiting for the next comeback and when it hit I swelled with joy and when she fell again I felt a loss.This book creates a clear chronology of a life lived so we can not only see the downward spiral of a women troubled by drugs and drinking and self-esteem but see the audience who loved her and the people who loved her and hated her through it all.

Furthermore it is written NOT as an expose like some many other books (you know thes ones that sound like the paparazzi wrote it).Mr. Shipman's purpose is not to slander Ms. Garland or dig up shocking "dirt" but to show her as complicated and as human.Some people see her as a saint and do not like it when that image is soiled.

I knew nothing about her other than as "Dorothy" and that she was an alcoholic and bi-sexual.Now I see her as person just like me and I gained a new appreciation for her and how despite her choosing to lie to therapists, to continue taking drugs and drin, she lived the life she wanted the way she wanted.Even when she was broke she refused to live less than a star, even when they said she had to quit the stage for good she didn't, she chose her life and she may have hated some of it but you cannot deny she chose it.Shipman made it clear that even as a child she knew she was going to be a star and she lived her life how she wanted and in front of the public.And for that I think Judy Garland is one the greatest people I've had the pleasure of meeting.


Now the other reviews are quiet troubling as they seem to have missed the point of the book, stopped reading when he brought out the "dirt", or didn't read it at all, and more likely just don't want their saintly image of Ms. Garland tainted.That and they have no qualms with what Shipman says of everyone else in Ms. Garland's life but when he point out her flaws all hell breaks loose. I say in order to love a life you have to live it good and bad and this book helped me do that without glossing over anything.

Now, here are some quotes from other reviews that are wrong:

Austin Brown wrote, "One reviewer states this book to be "The truth"! Ha! Hey, how about actually reading other books written on Judy Garland, (as I have), and you will see the error of your convictions. This piece of filth has so many entirely erroneous facts!"

Okay what facts are erroneous and how do you know those other books are correct who are their sources and did you check their bibliographies?Shipman has an extensive bibliography that you could research to check his facts or is that too much work?When you make a claim you must support it.


"She was given medications by her mother before she could talk, to wake up, to sleep, whatever she felt they needed to "get these girls moving.

Again cite your source.If this is coming from Ms. Garland herself then we can't be sure it's true at all since she hated her mother and towards the end her memory was getting mixed up, due to drug and drinking, as Shipman makes very clear.Also if this is true Shipman would have wrote about it considering all the other "dirt" he digs up, he doesn't seem to miss anything.So I assume he left it out because there were not facts to support it.

"This book even asserts Judy was bisexual!"

Yes, she was.So?And how do know she wasn't?

"Contray to manys' beliefs, Judy did not commit suicide, or intentionally overdose on sleeping pills. She had said herself in life that sometimes it was hard to remember what pills she had taken when, and would on occasion accidently overdose, which is what happened on the night/morning she died."

Shipman never said she committed suicide.Here is what he wrote, "When Deans went to find her, the bathroom door was locked.He climbed in through the bathroom window. She was sitting on the lavatory. Rigor Mortis had already set in." (pg. 507)


JkHay wrote, "He wants to imply it is her selfishness and jealousy of her daughter, (how stupid can you get, Shipman). Anyone really understanding the enormous heart of Judy Garland knows she didn't want to draw attention away from her daughter's debut, which of course she would have been unable to avoid, and suffered for her daughter's sake..."

Actually Shipman stated wrote, "...it was only sometime later that Garland explained the reason she avoided the first night was that she feared her presence there might distract the audience" (pg. 441)We don't know if this is true AND he never gives a reason WHY he thinks she deliberately missed the performance but she did deliberately miss it by going to the Bahamas with Sid Luft and the children, whatever the reason.

"When before an interview with Jacqueline Suzanne before the making of 'Valley of the Dolls' she insists Suzanne proceed her, he again wants to say it was to draw attention to herself... unless you want to just concentrate on Shipman's good reviews and ignore is absolutely stupid interpretations of her motives."

Okay that makes no sense but Shipman wrote, "It was because she was so desperate for money that she had accepted a role in what she would later call a "dirty picture"... Garland had no illusions about the project." (pg. 489)


Aidan V. Grant "gethappy" wrote, "The facts are wrong - at the end he states "At 46...Judy Garland was dead"

Actually Shipman wrote, "At the age of forty-seven, and $4 million in debt, Judy Garland was dead." (pg. 508)And if that is all he got wrong...

"Why is it so hard to believe that Judy had some happy times in her life and was loved off-screen as well as on. Over 200 people have said that Judy was the kindest and funniest woman, is that so hard to believe? June Allyson said "I get so mad when people say unkind things about Judy. Judy was one of the warmest, most loyal, one of the funniest ladies I have ever known". Gee you can learn more about Judy in that one sentence than you can in this book and others like it."

Shipman has that quote in his book too.And that statement doesn't tell you anything other than the personal opinion of June Allyson who may or may not have said it with honesty.So many people said things in public that they didn't really feel to save the reputation of fellow stars.Many people hated her because she never paid her debts, she wouldn't come to work on time or at all some days, and sometimes she refused to perform on stage even under contract.Still, many people loved her as well (even those who hated her) and the book shows that very well.It shows the complexity of the public's relationship with her and her relationship with Hollywood and other celebrities.

FULL OF LIES.
What is it going to take for biographers and also readers to get the idea that in Judy Garland's private life, the truth was less sensational than what has been written her by David Shipman.

Why is it so hard to believe that Judy had some happy times in her life and was loved off-screen as well as on. Over 200 people have said that Judy was the kindest and funniest woman, is that so hard to believe?. June Allyson said "I get so mad when people say unkind things about Judy. Judy was one of the warmest, most loyal, one of the funniest ladies I have ever known". Gee you can learn more about Judy in that one sentence than you can in this book and others like it (Torme, Clarke). If people think this is the truth, they have been misinformed. I got more info on one page in Tony Curtis' autobiography then I did here.

Read "Judy" by Gerold Frank, it is one of the best Judy bios ever.

Love her and hate her
To those people who claim that Shipman does indeed hate Judy need to take a closer look. His book is rich in documentation that supports his research. Furthermore, you can telll he was a devoted fan that can still be objective regarding her talent and her misgivings and faults. We have to remember the duress that Judy endured, the people who abandoned her when she most needed help, the promises of the studios to give her time off to replenish her energy and the monstrous effect of Louis B. Mayer. No wonder Liza has problems of her own. She was affected first hand. This review is fair to the artist without tarnishing her talent and accessibility to the public, as well as her warmth. A great read!

THIS BIOGRAPHY STINKS!
I have to go with the general consensus on this biography.Mr. Shipman has his details muddled and inaccurate in many aspects.How he can go into such detail about Judy's private life, sexual deviances, etc. is astonishing....was HE actually present during the actions he describes??That's the only way he could be so "forthright and honest"....hah!!Also, it seems Mr. Shipman thinks that everyone with whom Judy was involved was homosexual or bisexual.Heck, he goes on to state that nearly everyone in Hollywood is homosexual.Obviously, Mr. Shipman himself would qualify in this category as he seems obssessed with the subject.It is inferred to in every chapter of this non-sensical biography.We know Judy had problems, no one is denying that.Fans can accept the truth about her but have something substantive with which to back up your claims.....not just hearsay.This biography stinks and is an insult to the memory of Judy Garland.As someone else suggested, read "Rainbow...the Stormy Life of Judy Garland"......that is the best Garland biography ever and does not shortchange or mislead the reader in any way!

Judy Garland: The Life on an American Legend - Yeah Right!!!
This book is utter CRAP to be frank. The writing is fine,and easy to follow, but there are MAJOUR problems with this book. The facts are wrong - at the end he states "At 46...Judy Garland was dead" Correct me if Im wrong, butJudy Garland was 47 when she died. He also seems ro have a dislike of Judy, by calling her "Garland" when refering to her.

Take my advice go with World's Greatest Entertainer of Judy, to get a good bio of Miss Show Biz: Judy Garland ... Read more