This hardcover edition is a faithful replica of Sharon Rich’s oversized debut book, originally written in 1973 when she was just nineteen. Celebrated as a beautifully produced “coffee table” volume, it holds the distinction of being the first published biography of MGM star and singer Jeanette MacDonald. It was also the first to correctly document MacDonald’s birth date and to subtly suggest that her relationship with co-star Nelson Eddy extended beyond mere friendship. The 50th Anniversary Edition features a full reproduction of the original photo-filled book, along with a new introduction and an additional chapter. In these new sections, Rich shares the compelling backstory behind the book’s creation—a journey made possible through her close friendship with Jeanette’s sister, actress Blossom Rock, to whom the book is dedicated. Rock provided invaluable support: personal recollections, introductions to key sources, and rare photographs from her own collection. She kept her copy on her night table until her passing five years later. Originally selected by the Movie/Entertainment Book Club, the book earned Rich the distinction of being the youngest author ever to receive that honor. Due to the book’s size, it’s only available at the Mac/Eddy website.
Review
“Sharon Rich has triumphantly brought Jeanette MacDonald to life on paper and given the reader a true pictorial treasury.” – Barney Glazer, South Pasadena Review
“Sharon Rich has pulled together an outstanding collection of black-and-white photographs of the great musical star Jeanette MacDonald. This book contains hundreds of photos of Jeanette, her costars, family and associates, ranging from lovely formal portraits to funny “gag” shots (like the dog house she had herself rolled onto the set of Naughty Marietta in to apologize to the director, W.S. Van Dyke, for a goof she had made, and a boxing match between herself and Nelson Eddy staged to promote Sweethearts). Strongly recommended.”
“What a wonderful pictorial book. Thank you, Sharon, for all your hard work and love going into this book. Thank you, Blossom, for encouraging her to bring Jeanette’s story to her readers and fans. What a cherish.”