The Golden Girls: A Cultural History, by Bernadette Giacomazzo

 

Publication August 15, 2023

Born out of a comedy sketch that at best sounded rather trite and tired, "The Golden Girls" became not just a hit tv show but an icon of sorts. I've read a bit on the series, most recently Marissa DeAngelis' "The Binge Watcher's Guide to the Golden Girls", so I will admit up front to already being familiar with much of the info shared here. Despite this and some repetition, I found it an interesting read. The author also supports her conclusions and information shares with extensive references and notes. 

I won't belabor what is in the book as the blurb does a good job of that, but will say that I enjoyed the extensive look at each actress/character and how their background, both personal and work related, played into their role. Although I watched the show, I was never an obsessive fan, so must admit some of her takes made me go, "Hmm, how did I miss that?" Like the four actresses who portrayed them, the characters are shown to be anything but one-dimensional. Looking back, especially with some of the venom shared concerning controversial issues today, it's rather amazing to think how well the show's writers tackled issues still controversial today. I'll note that the four women didn't just mouth their support for causes, they walked the talk, too, which the book goes into. Rock Hudson even gets a mention. 

Overall, while hardly ground breaking, the book does an admirable job diving into not just the show, including the author's chosen best episodes, but where each character fit into the whole picture. More importantly, it not only gave a voice to senior women, often making their way on their own, but emphasized that a chosen family can be just as vital as a biologic one. No matter what their race, sexuality, or beliefs, that everyone deserves love and friendship. That's the message I got from the book and I thank #NetGalley and #Rowman&Littlefield for allowing me to indulge in a bit of important nostalgia for a bit. Heck, it gives us a good look at society as a whole and how it has not just evolved but how the media played a role.

The Binge Watcher’s Guide to The Golden Girls: An Unofficial Guide, by Marissa DeAngelis

This book was written with love. Not just a love of the show but the love of friends and friends who are family. Marissa DeAngelis' depth of information here is impressive and offered up in an easy-to-read fashion, almost as if she is simply having a conversation with you. It was as the book notes early on, a show where "exceptional writing and acting meet". Not only does DeAngelis offer up a recap of each episode, including guest stars, but offers her own opinions on why it resonated with not just here but probably other viewers. I should also note that despite the obvious love of the show and its characters, she doesn't hesitate to point out inconsistencies or story lines that simply didn't work for her.

And, come on. Admit it. Which Golden Girl are you? There is actually a quiz included to help you decide. Yes, I took it. I came off as a Rose but with leanings toward Dorothy, I guess I'd characterize it. Also probably fairly accurate. There are also bios of each of the actresses, lists of toys and games connected to the show, and even suggestions on how to throw the perfect watch party, remembering that the point is "to laugh and enjoy your friends". There's more, including a music play list for your part or simply entertainment. All this before it even got into the episode guide. As I said, the author has done a thorough job of research, oh, the horrors of having to indulge in watching every episode.....I'm jealous..... and packed "The Binge Watcher's Guide to The Golden Girls" with all sorts of data, fun facts, recaps, and glimpses behind the scenes. This one is a winner. I should also note, perhaps, that it was surely edited at the very least after Betty White's death, so it is quite up to date.

Thank you #NetGalley and #RiverdaleAvenueBooks for giving me the opportunity to rub elbows with some of the best friends a person could ask for. It was a joy. 

Betty White: 100 Remarkable Moments in an Extraordinary Life, by Ray Richmond

 

What's not to love about Betty White? I won't detail all the moments of her life and career given here because I'd still be going hours from now, there are too many, but thoroughly enjoyed this book put together by Ray Richmond. To be honest, I thought I knew about all there was to know about Betty White but quickly found out how wrong I was. Fans of White and television history will love this book and perhaps treasure it all the more after her recent death. You'll probably learn a few things, too, as I did. Enjoy! 

 Thank you very much for this delightful read and look, #NetGalley and #QuartoPublishingGroup, #Becker&Mayer. Betty White is a true treasure.