Clara Bow by David Stenn (1988, Hardcover)

Clara Bow has a an interesting and tragic life story, the quintessential rags to riches tale. I originally purchased this book because I wanted to know more about the ups and downs of her life, but I found a whole lot more. I think one of the most interesting aspects of this book were the parts in which Clara and other silent film stars were trying to make the transition from silent films to "talkies" and found the switch not only daunting, but went against everything they knew about expression. Clara Bow was so frustrated that she couldn't stop looking up at the microphone; one day she even got so fed up with the offending equipment that she began hitting it with her fists and screaming. Anyone who has any love for the 20's or for silent films or is interested in the rise and fall of a talented and wild young girl should read this book.