Reviews for Biography: Varieties and Parallels

The average rating for Biography: Varieties and Parallels based on 2 reviews is 2.5 stars.

Review # 1 was written on 2008-05-20 00:00:00 John Zimmerman I was a little disappointed in this portrayal of Kathrine Hepburn. Presented as a wealthy, stubborn, selfish snob who is as in love with her "quirks" as she is with her New England upbringing - she is not likable at all. It is difficult to read hundreds of pages about a woman who is more annoying with each chapter. I think the biggest thing that bothers me about the Kathrine Hepburn story is the legendary romance between Hepburn and Spencer Tracy. Firmly devoted to his Catholic faith, he could never divorce his wife or leave his children. Romantic right? Except his version of "faith" doesn't forbid adultery and alcoholism, as he conducts affairs with Hepburn and other actresses and sloshes his way through every bar in America. In addition to a repellent main character, the book is not well-constructed. The author is the master of mis-used cliches ("Kate could see the handwriting on the wall...") and has an overly-complicated writing style. Combined with countless mentions of random people and movie titles, you have a story that is difficult, if not impossible, to follow. I was sad to find that my image of the on-screen legend was severely tarnished after this book. Sure she was a great actress. She also deserved a swift kick in the butt.

Review # 2 was written on 2019-10-26 00:00:00 John Edward An eye-opening read to one of Hollywood's film icons, especially with regards to her professional life. It was also interesting to read about her personal life as interposed with her professional work life. Reading through it, it gave me a thought of how I could write my autobiography following this format....hopefully...interspersing my personal and professional life. By the end of the book, I look forward to search for some her films and watch them.