One Helluva Life: An Autobiography

One of the most enjoyable actor/theatre autobiographies I've read. I'm sort of a movie star bio-freak, and this one had me laughing out loud. I enjoyed every moment. Her recollections of Colleen Dewhurst were unique. What a great broad they both were. Love it.

This is not always a comfortable read - especially when Ms. Stapleton tells about her childrens' response to her alcoholism. But she tells it like it is - and she never spares herself. Maureen Stapleton has indeed had a hell of a life, and a pretty great career, too. Her comments about acting are refreshingly down-to-earth, and she is not the least bit self-aggrandizing. Most celebrities make themselves out to be holier than thou in their autobiographies, but not our Maureen. She does fib a bit, actually: at one point she claims that she hasn't touched a drop of hard liqour in 30 years, then she admits to sipping vodka at the funeral of Colleen Dewhurst (1991). If you like honest-to-goodness characters, you'll love this book!

The book is an effortless read. I'm not sure if I can compare it to reading; it feels as if you're having a conversation with her. The reader will come away wanting more!! I found it nearly impossible to put the book down. I've always admired her performance; they're truly masterful. The effortless style she displays on stage & screen comes shining through in the pages of her book! It is a truly honest and unforgiving look at her life. I loved this book!! She is a treasure! PS - I grew-up one block away from her childhood home.