Brazilian Bombshell

by Martha Gil-Montero

Book by Gil-Montero, Martha

Genres: Nonfiction, Biography

280 pages, Hardcover

First published May 23, 1989

Reviews

[Frank · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's a joy to read an extensive biography of Carmen Miranda, and Ms. Gil-Montero does a particularly fine job of tracing her development as a musical artist. The book is extensively researched, but I feel Ms. Gil-Montero is a little too enamored of her research. At times, she supplies more background than is needed, slowing the narrative and muddying her consideration of Miranda's life. I don't think an extensive discussion of TV as social phenomenon is needed as preface to discussing Miranda's final TV appearance, on "The Jimmy Durante Show." There is also a lengthy attempt to psychoanalyze Miranda that smacks of the worst excesses of Barbara Leaming's unfortunate attempts at biography. Aside from that, however, the book provides some fascinating insights into Miranda's life and career.

[Suzanne · Rating 3 out of 5]

I finished it, but it wasn’t an easy read. I felt the information was good, but the writing style did not appeal to me. I thought it was repetitive and overly wordy for starters. Also for some reason the author’s transitions from fact to supposition did not flow well. I didn’t always believe the conclusions she came to about Carmen’s life and feelings.

[Pedro D. DCV · Rating 5 out of 5]

Favorite bio

[Mrs.Lady · Rating 4 out of 5]

I THINK I WAS HER IN A PREVIOUS LIFE....