Magnificent Book!
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This is one of the best theatrical biographies I've ever read. Hugh Fordin does a wonderful job of bringing Hammerstein, his family, and his times to life. Imagine a life that begins with Oscar's legendary grandfather, includes Jerome Kern and Richard Rodgers, then ends with Oscar's befriending young Stephen Sondheim. It's the history of the 20th Century American theatre reflected in one amazing lifetime. Every page is rich with interesting detail. Its one thing for a biographer to get all the research right (which Fordin certainly has); what's even more important is getting to know something the soul of the subject. This is that kind of book. I've re-read it with delight several times, and I could not recommend it more highly.
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Lyrical biography of great lyricist!
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This is one of the best biographies I have read. The author had full access to the files of Oscar Hammerstein. I was just as fascinated with the life of his grandfather and his father, this is a true theatrical dynasty. Oscar Hammerstein really believed there was a bright golden haze on the meadow and after reading this book I'm inclined to agree.
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