Night and the Music: Rosemary Clooney, Barbara Cook, and Julie Wilson, Inside the World of Cabaret

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.

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.