3 comments about Stars in the Corps: Movie Actors in the United States Marines.

1. Thank you for making my father John R. Post so happy to have someone care about something that consumed a great deal of his young life. He was so thrilled to receive your book and share it with me and all his military friends. It was a time to be remembered - for the friendship - not the death. And he may be different but he remembers every name of every person he spent time with during WWII and the Korean Conflict. Thank you for acknowledging his memory and caring about his fellow man. Thank you.



2. This badly written book about men who served their country well will disappoint those who care about the language as well as those looking for depth in the reporting of what 28 Americans who happened to be associated with the entertainment industry did when they were in the U.S. Marine Corps.

   That is not to say that it is not worth reading, however. It's a quick read, and the reader will recognize the cotton candy style of the motion picture press release. But the surprises will keep you going, as you discover that Ed McMahon was such a good pilot of the Vought Corsair (the airplane that Pappy Boyington flew) that he became an instructor in World War II. When he finally flew in combat, it was in unarmed Cessna 180s flying observation over Korea -- extremely hazardous duty. You will also find out how Lee Marvin "got his ass shot off" in the World War II invasion of Saipan -- literally.

   One thing any reader will recognize is the almost universal feeling on the part of the subjects that the "Corps made a man out of me" and the emptiness most of them felt when no longer a part of Corps.

   In short, it's worth the money just for fun, but history it ain't. It's a nice little book about a few good men.




3. STARS IN THE CORPS. is a most entertaining and informative book. Well written and researched, it deals with the military service of a number of movie stars that served in the Corps through America's wars. Among the stars profiled, readers will find the opening chapter particularly interesting, since it relates the life and service of a much-decorated Vietnam Marine, Dale Dye. In case the name is not familiar, he was the military advisor for the movies, PLATOON, SAVING PRIVATE RYAN, AND THE THIN RED LINE. He has also acted in a number of movies and television specials. The chapter about Lee Marvin is riveting. In every sense of the word he was a Marine throughout his life. His burial marker at Arlington reads, LEE MARVIN, PFC, U. S. MARINE CORPS. Many of the subjects and stories will surprise readers. What I liked about the entire read was the avoidance of tabloid innuendo. True to the theme set by authors Wise and Rehill in STARS IN BLUE, they focus on the service contributions of these men, which are often unknown to the American public.

1 comments about Letters from Dudley.

1. This book takes you deeper into the thoughts and moods of Dudley Moore. It will make you feel like he is writing letters to you, and you can almost hear his voice as you read the letters. I just finished reading this a few days ago and I plan to read it again. It is beneficial to me as an artist to get to know more about what made this extraordinary man tick! I adore Mr. Moore even more, even with his imperfections and insecurity. The warmest thanks to Peter Cork for sharing these letters with the public.

No comments about Moving On.

1 comments about Celebrity Secrets: Official Government Files on the Rich and Famous.

1. This certainly contains information you would never even think could be possible. These folks have skeletons in their closets, with each having more than one closet. The ones with the largest number of closets though is our own government. Interesting read for anyone wondering what the government has been doing behind the scenes with people the public has embraced.

1 comments about Peggy Guggenheim: A Collector's Album.

1. Peggy Guggenheim was a privileged and independent woman who was in the absolute middle of the international art transformation from Surrealism in pre-WWII Europe to the Abstract Expressionism of post WWII New York.
   She had many astute friends and her own independent view of art collecting. Never-the-less she's a hard person to love or idolize, due to the many personality quirks she loudly exhibited. Her insecurities about her looks compelled her to sleep with anyone she could, as validation that she was not that unattractive. Her art philanthropy was cancelled by her public regrets later, that she gifted so much art she never felt would be THAT valuable.
   Still, this is an inside look into the Grand Dame on the Grand Canal in Venice that is a fairly balanced view.
   The cover photo of Peggy is not a good choice for a first-time reader: Peggy often put on exagerated sunglasses when someone tried to photograph her, to hide her discomfort about the prospect. A better choice would have been a photo of her when she had let her guard down.

3 comments about Hollywood Undercover: Revealing the Sordid Secrets of Tinseltown.

1. What a great read! I loved all the little sorid details of this book. It kept me interested from page one, no less! I highly recommend this to anyone who loves the whole Hollywood thing! Also, I liked and would recommend Take Your Shirt Off: A Novel of Hollywood.



2. I bought this book after hearing the author interviewed on a morning radio show (The Jay Thomas Show). What intrigued me the most was that the author said he started out to do a documentary on being an aspiring actor in Hollywood and came to Scientology. During the interview, the author claimed he was hiding out in the mountains of Canada as a result of threats he'd received on the phone and he's scared for his life.
   
   Needless to say, I wanted to read all about the mysterious Scientologists.
   
   I also was interested to see how everyone in Hollywood knows certain people are gay but that it's totally unknown to the general public. The reason I gave the book 4 stars was because he chooses not to out the actors...I wish he'd name drop.



3. I was expecting a great, juicy exposé of insider news and gossip in this book and was sorely disappointed. Mr. Halperin's writing style is weak, he never mentions names when disclosing supposedly sordid secrets, and his facts are often inaccurate. In one section, he mentions how Debbie Reynolds stole Eddie Fisher away from Elizabeth Taylor, when quite the opposite is true. The information that is in this book is basically what one can read in any People magazine--and People has far better photos. The photos in this book are amateurish and feature the author in his ridiculous sequined coat and bow-tie. I hate to be mean, but this is one book that you shouldn't waste your time on. I bought it because of the two positive reviews--I was misinformed.

1 comments about Requiem: Diana, Princess of Wales 1961-1997 - Memories and Tributes.

1. This is one of the few very best books on Diana. Her closest friends speak or write about her not long after her death. The Clive James piece, "No", is unforgettable, as is the late poet laureate's poem 6 September 1997. This is a keeper; should be owned by all who love or admire Diana.

5 comments about Home: The Blueprints of Our Lives.

1. Heartwarming and poignant stories told by people from all over America about their childhood homes and what the home and the family means to them.I loved this book.



2. THIS IS A LOVELY COFFEE TABLE BOOK. THE STORIES THAT ARE RELATED ARE PRICELESS AND BRING BACK CHILDHOOD MEMORIES.



3. I enjoyed reading about the family of well known people and seeing snapshots of their growing up years.



4. This is not an analysis of home, or the concept of home. It is a series of essays that reminisce on what childhood homes were like. Some of the essays are by famous people, others by less famous average people types.
   
   Although the book provides a few insights into personal meaning for each of these people, it does not approach the larger issue of Home and what it might mean to us as a people. This is a coffee table book at best, not one for reading through and through.
   
   It's not that the book is bad, it's just that I found little meaning in it apart from understanding these people's history a little better. It didn't challenge me to examine, to understand, it was listening to friends reflect on the smell of bread in the kitchen. Not a bad activity at all, but don't expect great significance to arise from such a down home exercise.
   
   If you want something that explores the subject deeply, I highly recommend "House As A Mirror of Self."



5. I am extremely pleased with the book. I had no idea it was an autographed copy so that was a huge surprise and it arrived in mint condition. Thanks.
   
   Rebecca
   Leonardtown, MD

5 comments about Naked: The Life and Pornography of Michael Lucas.

1. I have to admit it. I really had no idea who Michael Lucas was before I heard about this book. Sure, I had come across his face from time to time (no pun intended) when surfing the web for ummm...sexual content for research, yeah that's it. But other than that, I'd never seen the man in action, literally. But, being a fan of Corey Taylor, I have patiently been waiting for his next book. And here was my chance to catch up on what I've been missing out on in the world that is Michael Lucas.
   
   Like many a porn star, Lucas is a hot immigrant who came to the states for a totally different reason. In rolls the need for artistic expression and the rest is history. But this is not just any boring bio penned from the mouth of your every day porn player for anyone who cares to listen. Taylor exposes us to how Lucas shaped the industry, despite its negative headlines at the onset of HIV.
   
   Lucas' struggle for a name in film, and his advocacy for safe sex, definitely put him on the map and fast. Yeah, I'm sure every porn star has a story or two to tell, and readers are in search of only two things: the off screen deep dish to make us laugh or the smut to make us aroused. I'm not saying you won't find either of those here, but take a second to appreciate the story that Corey Taylor has handed us. It is truly one with heart, despite the character at the center of attention, that might inspire you to keep chasing down that dream and fighting for what you believe in.
   
   Kudos to Corey Taylor for shedding a new spot light on the gay porn industry and one man, Michael Lucas, who rules the stage!



2. Taylor, Corey. "Naked: The Life and Pornography of Michael Lucas", Kensington Books, 2007.
   
   
   
   Lucas Superman
   
   
   
   Amos Lassen and Literary Pride
   
   
   
   Now that pornography has become part of modern American life, more and more people are aware of it but how many people besides gay men have any idea of who Michael Lucas is. After reading Corey Taylor's biography of Lucas, I can tell you that he is quite a man--cultured, educated and a brilliant businessman who has made a fortune as a porn producer, director and actor. He also exudes charisma.
   
   Born to humble Russian beginnings in 1972 as Andrei Treyvas, he immigrated to the United States in the mid 90's. He is a former male prostitute and an outspoken advocate for safe sex and social justice. His first porn movie was heterosexual "trash" but he quickly moved to gay fare and made a lot of money and won a lot of awards. His DVD sales are among the highest in the porn industry. He maintains a relatively anonymous lifestyle.
   
   We see a completely different Michael Lucas in this book that we see on video. Taylor has written a biography that is full of life and interesting tidbits. Lucas completely reshaped the gay porn industry and the fact that Lucas is a man with a big heart (among other things) makes this book all the more readable and endearing. He chased a dream and caught it and he personifies those who come to America to live a good life.
   
   The biography looks at the industry of gay porn through the eyes of a man who has helped shape it. Because Lucas was both a Jew and a homosexual, he felt compelled to leave his native Russia and after two years of prostitution in Eastern Europe and came to America. He had experiences with those in the drug trade even though he, himself, is not a user. In fact, he does not drink, smoke or take drugs. Beginning his gay porn career with what was then the best of companies, Falcon, he eventually left after making four movies and in 1998 he started Lucas Productions.
   
   Focusing on himself as a businessman, his operation quickly grew. He has special requirements for his actors and his movies are all professional to the letter of the word,
   
   For all of you who like the "dirt", it is also there. Sordid stories populate the pages but there is also a legitimate commentary on the nature and importance of porn.
   
   This is another of those books you won't put down until you finish it. It is fascinating and well written and a tribute to a man who deserves to have his story told.



3. I picked up a copy of this book, hoping to get some insight into the character Michael Lucas; pornographer, prostitute, and New York City nightlife commentator of some note. What I got instead was a poorly written, 270-page treacly valentine by an overly smitten fan.
   
   They say that the cardinal sin of any biographer is that they get too close to their subject; this book is a prime example of that danger. Corey Taylor makes no bones about his intense admiration for Mr. Lucas (going so far as to profess his love for Mr. Lucas's work and character in the book in the first person), and therefore loses any objectivity when covering the subject. The book is intellectually dishonest, biased, and in the end, not that revealing. We learn much more about Mr. Lucas's wardrobe (Armani seems to be a favorite), and the fact that he enjoys selling his used clothes, than anything substantive about Mr. Lucas's start in the porn business, which is touched on only in a slight way. The author focuses time and time again on Mr. Lucas's business acumen, "street smarts", and his persistence (the phrase used over and over is "he always gets what he wants"). However, even the events set forth in the book raise questions. When in Russia, Mr. Lucas was the head of an allegedly successful travel company; somehow, the company collapsed, yet the entire incident is glossed over in three lines. However, the author treats us to page after page (approvingly) of Mr. Lucas's attempt over a seven-year period to collect on a bounced check from one of his former clients (an obsession that seems to border on pathological). Throughout the book, incidents are always recounted from Mr. Lucas's perception, and events are always cast in his favor. The author makes no effort to independently investigate any historical facts, even when inconsistencies jump off the page; he merely opts time and time again to repeat Mr. Lucas's take on things. It almost seems that the author feared losing Mr. Lucas's favor; indeed, I found it telling that in the end, the author had to admit that Mr. Lucas himself cut off all access. I would think an act like that probably would have spurred a better author to start digging; Mr. Taylor, on the other hand, wilts like a jilted lover who still carries a torch for his man.
   
   The manuscript reads like a freshman English Comp. essay, full of awkward sentences and grammatical mistakes, and not a whit of tone or tempo - one has to wonder whether Mr. Taylor's editor at Kensington Press was out of the office on vacation when the proofs came in. Which is a shame; Mr. Lucas's story does seem to have the makings of an interesting tale (Russian immigrant, law school graduate, former Falcon model now behind the camera, with approving parents). However, the author lets us down time and time again. If you're looking for anything resembling a "backstage pass" into the porn business, skip this book (I think you will find "Making It Big", featuring Chi Chi LaRue, a more fulfilling read). If you're already a fan of Mr. Lucas's, skip this book as well; it will not tell you anything you don't already know. If you're not a fan, skip this book as well; there's nothing in here worth reading.



4. Michael Lucas doesn't seem to care what people think of him, so whatever I write here won't matter much. But I didn't think the book was that great. It seemed to be written in a very awkward style. Very repetitious. I got tired of hearing how wonderful Michael Lucas is, and how successful is he, and how pleased he is with his life, etc., etc., etc. The chapter with his talk to Yale should have been ommited as that had all been covered previously. Michael makes a big deal on several occasions on how he doesn't do drugs, yet it said he was on anti depressants, so I guess his life isn't ALL that together, huh?? He thinks he is this wonderful, fabulous philanthropist and should be taken around on a sedan chair like the Popes of old. He absolutely hates religion he says yet when he talks about his good fortune he'll say "Thank God....". If you don't believe, don't invoke His name Michael. I do agree with his thoughts about Islam but I don't agree with his other politics. He is a perfect example of a hedonistic, capitalist. He moans and groans about his mother's illness which of course is unfortunate, and I read where she died in April--but that is an example of real life and Michael likes glitz, glamour and glory because he has his nose up in the air. He's going to get old and unattractive someday too, just like everyone else. Someday hopefully he'll realize that he puts his pants on the same way as everyone else. I read his story, but I'm not all that impressed. Despite what he thinks, being a porn star--and a mega porn star at that, is not all that impressive.



5. I rated this book a one, not because of the writing....but because of the self centered obnoxious person it was written about. Talk about a lothsome individual! I got tired of reading about his idiocyncracies and the fact that he his handsome and has a good body and likes sex, lots of sex. Chi Chi LaRue had apparently tried to convince Lucas not to co-operate with the author who was doing the book....and I assume it's because she knew how he would come off. Basically, there is nothing redeeming about Lucas. He is a self centered, idiot. He believes in himself, yes, but basically thinks everyone should act and be like him. He thinks he has all the answers to everything. Yet there is nothing, even remotely, interesting about him at all. I think people just put up with him because he is moderatly successful in the porn world. I would suggest he seek psychiatic help, however he would only poo-poo the doctor saying he knew more than he did...so how could he help him. One has to be aware of his problems before he is able to conquer them, however Lucas doesn't feel there is room for improvement in his life. It is perfect, as he feels he is. Well, he thinks he has all the answers. This book proves he has none! Basically, he's a jerk that thinks too highly of himself. JERK!

5 comments about The Day John Died.

1. Christopher Andersen has written a book that is symbolic of taking a walk down memory lane. The title is misleading, as this writing is a recount highlighting the Kennedy family history.

   Andersen paints a believable story of John, and one that sees him in a much more human light than in most writings. It is refreshing to note that as a child, John did get into his fair share of mischievous adventures. As a young man, these adventures became more daring and life threatening. Andersen writes of accounts of John experimenting with drugs, and makes it clear that John did not have a drug problem. However, Andersen sketches Jack as one that became hungry for speed. Strangely, John is described here as scatterbrained, and unstudious, yet rather smart. John seemed to have the knack of keeping friends and family happy, and also maintaining happiness for him at the same time. For Jackie, John's escapades had to be unnerving and her power over her son wavered. Andersen's writing of Jackie, depicts a much stronger woman than the media portrayed in the 60's. Jackie protected John from the worst Kennedy family influences; squashed John's ideas of an acting career and was most powerful in decisions John had in the romance arena. Jackie and Caroline were opposed to relationships he had with several women, and John seemed to abide by his mother's and sister's wishes, to end less-than-suitable relationships. Even though John may have broken the hearts of many young women, his classy reputation stands untarnished, as all of his ex's still maintained friendships with America's son.

   John's marriage to Carolyn Bessette , and their happiness will always remain a mystery for us. We can speculate, but John tried to keep his personal life out of the spotlight, as he demonstrated with their secret wedding.

   Uncanny as it may seem, Jackie had premonitions of John's plane-crash death. She begged her son not to pursue his love of flying. But this time, John only postponed his lessons for a short while, then continued the lessons without Jackie's stamp of approval.
   
   At the end of this book, John is viewed as less of a celebrity figure and more of a friend, who touched the hearts of so many. He will be sorely missed.




2. Maybe I am not in enough awe of the son of a dead president, but then I don't understand where the glamor of being hired by the American people makes a person glamorous or even smart.

   JFK, Jr. died, and killed 2 women with him.

   It's worth maybe an hour's reading, since it's mostly invented dialogue and gossip, this is literally a page turner.




3. This book is not a detailed account of the plane crash that took JFK JR's life, the book is an attempt at a biography of his life. If you have looked at the book then you know that this is a bio that is going to fall more in the Kitty Kelly area then a deep historical work. I was looking for more of an account of the forces within his life pushing into politics and his thoughts that lead him away from politics. We did get a little of these types of details, but the main focus of the book was to get the more tabloid type facts to the front of the chapters - sell more books. The author does give us some of the highlights of the Kennedy family history, but he does not connect how the events may have affected JFK JR's thoughts on a public life.

   I was interested in some of the insight on Jackie relationship with him. It did seem like she held a bit of power over his life, but that could have been the author tying to sell more books. There are also lots of details about how many incidents he got into growing up that could have been physically dangerous. As I said we do get a broad overview of the Kennedy family over the past 100 years but it almost came off as filler, like there may not have been enough on JFK JR. for the full book.

   This is a light, gossipy book that touches the surface of his and his family's life. If that is what you are looking for then this book is a good one. The writing is good; easy to read and fast paced. Overall, I felt that this book was just too light.




4. Christopher Andersen, author of the #1 New York Times bestseller "The Day Diana Died" tells the story of American's son, John F. Kennedy, Jr. It's the bittersweet tale of the American Icon and sadly the unfulfilled fate of his tragic death.
   

   
   If anyone would hear the name of John Kennedy, Jr. knew he was destined for greatness. He once quoted of himself saying: "People keep telling me I can be a great man. I'd rather be a good one." On the day John died that July 16, 1999 it seemed known only to God of his father's assassination and the death of Princess Diana was the most distinct moment to affect our lives. The world would never be the same. On the day President John Kennedy died, I was a little girl of 5 years. On the morning of Nov. 22, 1963, I walked into the living room. My mom sat on the couch motionless in front of the TV in tears. I asked her what was the matter. She said, "They assassinated President Kennedy." From that day, thirty some years later since little John, Jr. saluted his father's casket in that famous snapshot to the present time in 1999. It is something that we all live with for the rest of our lives. Where were you on July 16, 1999? When a nation's grief would be buried in the ocean along with John, Jr., his wife, Carolyn Bessette and her sister Lauren where they died and where they are at rest.
   

   
   Andersen writes in detailed form the beginnings of the Kennedy legacy and the legend that John, Jr. would live with. It was a time not far in the past that two lives paralleled between Britain's Princess Di and America's John Kennedy, Jr.. Both of their persona of power and elegance inspired the dreams of their generation. Whatever these two did in their lives whether it was weaknesses and failures they were more loved by the public. The public follows John's life as he failed his bar exam twice, his romances with Christina Haag, Madonna and long time love Daryl Hannah, dodging the paparazzi, the famous fight in the park with his future wife, his struggle to find his own career path in the shadow of his legendary parents and the unveiling of his magazine, GEORGE.
   

   
   In the coming few years up to the time of his fated future. John enjoyed time flying. It was the only chance he could get away from the demands of his busy life and the paparazzi. It was such a shame that on the day of his tragic end. It had to go so quickly. As one would put it 'Gone Too Soon.' The lives John, Jr. touched while he was here with his remarkable legacy of a family that endured both triumph and heartbreaking tragedy. His sister Caroline stands alone. The only sole survivor of America's American family. Everyone took solace along with her in her sorrow. In this life that John Kennedy, Jr. lived he never follow in the footsteps of his father's career. Never did he write a book, do any great heroics or discover anything. Just because simply he existed. Everyone knew him. He belonged to all of us. From that beginning John Kennedy, Jr. was America's son. You'll have to read the book to know what I mean.
   

   
   NOTE: The book includes photographs that chronographs his life from his youth to his death with sources, chapter notes and selected bibliography.




5. John Jr. was known as the "Master of Disaster" to his friends because of his willingness to accept physical challenges and daredevil nature.

   Chapter 1 focuses on the day John died giving his, his wife's and her sister's itineraries then proceeds to takeoff followed by a fictionalized account of what probably went wrong during their flight. Andersen interviewed other pilots who'd flown that day and some who knew John's abilities in order to put that part together. The scene is so gripping that I felt was flying with them!

   Chapters 2 opens in 1960 chronicling Jackie's first pregnancy, which ended in a miscarriage and goes through John's early life. Chapter 3 begins in 1963 with the assassination and gives a lot of background at what was happening to the children at this time. It's a very poignant chapter guaranteed to move the reader to tears. Chapter 4 deals with RFK's assassination and Jackie's fear for his children's safety. She always believed that they were primary targets.

   Chapter 5 discusses Jackie's marriage to Aristotle Onasis and the world's reaction to the destruction of the Camelot mystique. It seemed that people believed that the love between Jack and Jackie was perfect and they felt Jackie should remain America's dowager queen. Jackie was a compulsive shopper, which irritated Ari to the point where he cut her allowance. After his only son Alexander died in a plane crash, Ari made it clear he wanted nothing to do with the Kennedys. He referred to her as "The Widow"and his friends and family referred to her as "The Black Widow" blaming the Kennedy Curse for all Ari's misfortunes. When Onasis died, Jackie had to battle his daughter Christina to get her inheritance.

   Jackie overshadowed John controlling much of his life and tried to force him into politics to carry on his father's legacy. Consequently, John held a series of different positions before starting George Magazine. In an interview with Fidel Castro, Fidel disclosed that he admired John's father and apologized for not giving Lee Harvey Oswald an entry visa in October 1963.

   John's relationship with Carolyn was stormy but it would seem that there was true passion behind it. John was not forced to marry Carolyn, as his father had been to marry his mother purely for political expediency so he had the option to get a divorce but never sought one out. A lot of their troubles were caused by the constant intrusion into their private life by the media and the public. Carolyn simply was not used to this; but John took it in stride since he'd grown up with it.

   The text takes John's life from Chapter 2 onward right up to Chapter 9, which covers the search and recovery effort for his plane.

   A great companion book to this is by All Too Human The Love Story of Jack and Jackie by Edward Klein, which focuses on Jack and Jackie's relationship. I simply could not put either book down!