W.C. Fields: A Biography.

New York, NY Watson-Guptill: Back Stage Books, 2004. Paperback First Edition; First Printing [2004], so stated. First Printing also Indicated by a complete numerical sequence. First Edition; First Printing [2004], so stated. First Printing also Indicated by a complete numerical sequence. Fine in Wraps: flawless; the binding square and secure; the text clean. Free of creases to the panels. Free of creases to the backstrip. Free of creased or dog-eared pages in the text.. Free of any underlining, hi-lighting or marginalia or marks in the text. Free of any ownership names, dates, addresses, notations, inscriptions, stamps, plates, or labels. A handsome, like-new copy, structurally sound and tightly bound, showing no discernible imperfections. Bright and clean. Corners sharp. Virtually 'As New'. NOT a Remainder, Book-Club, or Ex-Library. 8vo. (9.2 x 6.2 x 1.65 inches(). xix, 593 pages. Extensive Notes, Chronology. Bibliography. Index. Liberally illustrated in black & white. Language: English. Weight: 31 ounces. Knopf published the hardcover edition in 2003. Trade Paperback. This biography paints the picture of a talented and driven man who lived life on his terms. He was very considerate,kind, and generous to some people and the opposite to others. Contrary to legend he did not hate children or dogs. However, though he did drink a lot it seems that no one ever saw him drunk and he did not drink at all before performing early in his career because he was a perfectionist and you can't juggle if you're tipsy. The author also provides a colorful account of life as a vaudeville performer including a number of the feuds Fields was involved in. Bill might have been tough to work with or for but he was a good friend to numerous performers. He was very committed to his art. Highly recommended for anyone interested in the period and or the person.