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Rating: 
Summary: The definitive description of cabaret today.
Review: Being a cabaret singer myself, I was immediately taken in by this book. I saw all three ladies perform during the 93-94 season and I was glad to relive those performances. The way Ms. Winer weaves in and out of the divas' stories, mingling in sections on other NYC cabaret denizens, and her honest, tell-it-like-it-is style kept me wanting more. The hard truth that it is almost impossible to make a living in cabaret - even these great stars struggle - was difficult to read. But I believe that especially in a book like this, the truths have to be told. Ms. Winer points out the battles, but also the rewards of this field: creating magic in the night - and the music. It's a good read.
Rating: 
Summary: interesting stories and anecdotes not written well
Review: This is a book for people who are really interested in the careers of these three cabaret stars. The stories are interesting, but the writing, editing, and organization are weak--that is, you have to really care about these performers to want to read on. Their stories kept me going--the presentation of the material, including chronological jumping and seemingly endless repetition, with no real purpose, were downright annoying. The book reads as though it was written by a groupie who'd skipped writing class. It definitely has peaks and valleys, with the anecdotes being the peaks and the presentation being the valleys.
Rating:
Summary: A fascinating read...
Review: This is the book equivalent of a behind-the-scenes documentary. It tosses you into the often difficult world that is New York cabaret. Although all three ladies are established stars, they struggle like everyone else. I bought this book on a whim. I have long been a fan of Rosemary Clooney, and knew a little of the other ladies, but thought it would be entertaining to read about the cabaret world. I don't think you have to be a huge fan to appreciate the book. Winer's style is most appropriate and entertaining for a book of this kind. Winer weaves in and out of the stories of each singer, and little by little, you learn a lot. As she follows Rosie, Barbara and Julie around, you start to get a clear picture of what it takes to make it: determination, resilience, a sense of humor, and unfailing talent. She captures moments you won't find in an interview. All in all, I would recommend this book highly, but not to just anyone. If you are a fan of any of the profiled singers, if you are a performer, if you enjoy finding out "what makes people tick," you'll enjoy this book.
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