Bing
CrosbyBing Books
Crosby has been the subject of many books over the years, some great and others with the intent to taint his beloved image. This past year has seen an increase in books that herald Crosby's contributions to the world of entertainment. Here are just a few of the books that are on the frontline in the fight to keep Crosby's memory and talents alive in the minds of 21st century America and the world.
Bing Crosby
A Pocketful of Dreams: The Early Years 1903 - 1940
Gary Giddins
Published by Little, Brown, and Company
Gary Giddins' extensive look at Bing's life and career up to 1940 was finally published in 2001, much to the delight of Crosby fans everywhere. Giddins spent years researching and interviewing people who knew Crosby and those who worked with him. He details his childhood in Washington and his rise to stardom with the Paul Whiteman Orchestra and his subsequent success as a solo artist. Giddins has written many books on jazz artists and is a columnist for the Village Voice. Part two of A Pocketful of Dreams is expected to be published within the next year or two.
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Bing
Crosby
Crooner of the Century
Richard Grudens
Published by Celebrity Profiles Publishing
Richard Grudens has put together a fine book on the life of our favorite crooner. His book was first available at the Hofstra Conference where he and Kathryn Crosby signed copies of their respective books for lucky fans. Crooner of the Century is filled with photos of Crosby and his family and friends, some of which have never appeared in print. A section of the book labeled People and Things is a virtual who's who of the entertainment business with each recalling their time spent with Bing. See if you agree with the author as he lists Bing's Best Songs, among other things, in the Lists Section.
Visit Richard Grudens site for more books by the author
My Last Years with Bing
Kathryn Crosby
Collage Books Inc.
This long awaited book was promised to Crosby fans way back in 1983 (to put that into perspective, I was 5 years old at the time!) and serves as a sequel to her book My Life with Bing. My Last Years with Bing was available at the Hofstra Conference in November but has now been published and is available at bookstores all around the country and on the internet. The book features many new photos of Crosby and his second family and a commentary on his last years of life. A definite must read for all Crosby fans.
Bing Crosby
Day By Day
Malcolm Macfarlane
Published by Scarecrow Press, Inc
Malcolm Macfarlane has put together one of the most unique books ever published about a human being, entertainer or otherwise. The reader follows Bing through life with his activities described almost on a daily basis. This book helps us all to realize just how many people Crosby came in contact with throughout his life, how many fascinating and talented people he worked with, and how important his contributions were to 20th century popular music and movies.
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All of the books detailed above can be purchased on-line at the following sites: