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My Mama, Cass: A Memoir
A long-awaited, myth-busting, and deeply affecting memoir by the daughter of legendary rock star “Mama Cass” Elliot To the rest of the world, Cass Elliot was a rock star; A charismatic, wisecracking singer from Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inducted band, The Mamas & The Papas; A legend of Laurel Canyon, decked out in her custom-made Muumuus, glittering designer jewelry, blessed with a powerful, instantly identifiable singing voice which helped define the sound of the 1960s counterculture movement. But to Owen Elliot-Kugell, she was just Mom. In the nearly 50 years since Cass Elliot’s untimely death at the age of 32, rumors and myths have swirled about, shading nearly every aspect of her life. In her long-awaited memoir, Owen Elliot-Kugell shares the groundbreaking story of her mom as only a daughter can tell it. In My Mama, Cass, Owen pulls back the curtains of her mother’s life from the sold-out theaters and behind the closed doors of her infamous California abode. Born Ellen Naomi Cohen, the woman who was known to the world as Cass Elliot was decades ahead of her an independently minded, outspoken woman who broke through a male-dominated business, a forward-thinking feminist, and a single parent who embraced motherhood from the moment Owen entered the world. From the closely guarded secret of Owen’s paternity to Cass’s lifelong struggles with self-esteem and weight to rumors surrounding her mother’s death, Owen illuminates the complex truths of her mother’s life, sharing interviews with high-profile figures who orbited Cass, as well as never-before-heard tales of her mother and this legendary period of American history. Featuring intimate family and archival photos as well as interviews and memories from high-profile figures who loved and respected Cass, this book is both a love story and a mystery, a tale of self-discovery and a daughter’s devotion. At its core, My Mama, Cass is a beautifully crafted testament befitting of Cass Elliot’s enduring cultural impact and legacy, written by the person who knew and loved her best.
275 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 7, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 280 reviews
April 5, 2024
3.5 Stars rounded up to 4
I've always enjoyed some of the Mamas and the Papas hits as a casual fan, owning their Greatest Hits compilation on vinyl, and reading some of their other memoirs. When I saw that "Mama" Cass Elliot's daughter Owen wrote a memoir about her mother, of course I had to read it. Cass died at the age of 32 in 1974 when Owen was just 7 years old.
The book begins on a poignant note with little Owen having the sweetest and most loving exchange with her Mom Cass at the airport. Owen was being sent to stay with family because Cass had a business trip to London. Little did she know that it would be the last time Owen would ever see her mother alive.
I've read John Phillips' and his daughter Mackenzie Phillips' memoirs as well as another recent Mamas and the Papas biography called All the Leaves Are Brown: How the Mamas & the Papas Came Together and Broke Apart, and I've watched various documentaries- so I was already well-informed on the topic. It was a tad annoying in the first half of the book as Owen recounted her mother's history and kept stating, "Mom must have felt this" and "Mom must have felt that". Having only been 7 years old when she lost her mother , she's obviously relying on a lot of information she's culled over the decades from everyone that knew her Mom. When Owen was just a tot her mother's home in California was a hot refuge and meeting place for other musicians such as Joni Mitchell, Stephen Stills, David Crosby, and Graham Nash (of Crosby, Stills & Nash). In fact, Mama Cass was directly responsible for bringing that trio together! Throughout the book Owen references events and iconic photos, but there were none in my advance reader copy. However, she described them so vividly that I was able to perform internet image searches and see the relevant photos. One particularly haunting photo was a closeup of Owen sitting on her now stepfather's lap in a limo leaving her mother's funeral.
Oddly enough, the book really took off for me after Cass died, as it was so interesting to read about the family fallout after Cass's death and how they all coped- especially Owen. She was friends with the children of Brian Wilson and was originally supposed to be part of what became the successful Wilson Phillips trio (consisting of Wendy and Carnie WIlson and Chynna Phillips). Owen is quite strident in disputing the unattractive legend that her mother died while eating a ham sandwich. Overall this was a worthwhile book to add to the others out there documenting the life of "Mama" Cass Elliot, but also for learning about the daughter Cass left behind whose father was kept a secret.
Thank you to the publisher Hachette Books for providing an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
I've always enjoyed some of the Mamas and the Papas hits as a casual fan, owning their Greatest Hits compilation on vinyl, and reading some of their other memoirs. When I saw that "Mama" Cass Elliot's daughter Owen wrote a memoir about her mother, of course I had to read it. Cass died at the age of 32 in 1974 when Owen was just 7 years old.
The book begins on a poignant note with little Owen having the sweetest and most loving exchange with her Mom Cass at the airport. Owen was being sent to stay with family because Cass had a business trip to London. Little did she know that it would be the last time Owen would ever see her mother alive.
I've read John Phillips' and his daughter Mackenzie Phillips' memoirs as well as another recent Mamas and the Papas biography called All the Leaves Are Brown: How the Mamas & the Papas Came Together and Broke Apart, and I've watched various documentaries- so I was already well-informed on the topic. It was a tad annoying in the first half of the book as Owen recounted her mother's history and kept stating, "Mom must have felt this" and "Mom must have felt that". Having only been 7 years old when she lost her mother , she's obviously relying on a lot of information she's culled over the decades from everyone that knew her Mom. When Owen was just a tot her mother's home in California was a hot refuge and meeting place for other musicians such as Joni Mitchell, Stephen Stills, David Crosby, and Graham Nash (of Crosby, Stills & Nash). In fact, Mama Cass was directly responsible for bringing that trio together! Throughout the book Owen references events and iconic photos, but there were none in my advance reader copy. However, she described them so vividly that I was able to perform internet image searches and see the relevant photos. One particularly haunting photo was a closeup of Owen sitting on her now stepfather's lap in a limo leaving her mother's funeral.
Oddly enough, the book really took off for me after Cass died, as it was so interesting to read about the family fallout after Cass's death and how they all coped- especially Owen. She was friends with the children of Brian Wilson and was originally supposed to be part of what became the successful Wilson Phillips trio (consisting of Wendy and Carnie WIlson and Chynna Phillips). Owen is quite strident in disputing the unattractive legend that her mother died while eating a ham sandwich. Overall this was a worthwhile book to add to the others out there documenting the life of "Mama" Cass Elliot, but also for learning about the daughter Cass left behind whose father was kept a secret.
Thank you to the publisher Hachette Books for providing an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
May 12, 2024
I grew up listening to The Mamas and the Papas along with many other groups of that time period and really liked their music. I have also read many singers biographies where they mention the influence and friendship of Mama Cass Elliot and the openness of her home. Of course I was happy to have to chance to read this memoir by her daughter.
Description:
A long-awaited, myth-busting, and deeply affecting memoir by the daughter of legendary rock star “Mama Cass” Elliot To the rest of the world, Cass Elliot was a rock star; A charismatic, wisecracking singer from Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inducted band, The Mamas & The Papas; A legend of Laurel Canyon, decked out in her custom-made Muumuus, glittering designer jewelry, blessed with a powerful, instantly identifiable singing voice which helped define the sound of the 1960s counterculture movement. But to Owen Elliot-Kugell, she was just Mom. In the nearly 50 years since Cass Elliot’s untimely death at the age of 32, rumors and myths have swirled about, shading nearly every aspect of her life. In her long-awaited memoir, Owen Elliot-Kugell shares the groundbreaking story of her mom as only a daughter can tell it. In My Mama, Cass, Owen pulls back the curtains of her mother’s life from the sold-out theaters and behind the closed doors of her infamous California abode. Born Ellen Naomi Cohen, the woman who was known to the world as Cass Elliot was decades ahead of her an independently minded, outspoken woman who broke through a male-dominated business, a forward-thinking feminist, and a single parent who embraced motherhood from the moment Owen entered the world. From the closely guarded secret of Owen’s paternity to Cass’s lifelong struggles with self-esteem and weight to rumors surrounding her mother’s death, Owen illuminates the complex truths of her mother’s life, sharing interviews with high-profile figures who orbited Cass, as well as never-before-heard tales of her mother and this legendary period of American history. Featuring intimate family and archival photos as well as interviews and memories from high-profile figures who loved and respected Cass, this book is both a love story and a mystery, a tale of self-discovery and a daughter’s devotion. At its core, My Mama, Cass is a beautifully crafted testament befitting of Cass Elliot’s enduring cultural impact and legacy, written by the person who knew and loved her best.
My Thoughts:
This is a heartfelt memoir filled with love, pride and admiration for Owen Elliot-Kugell's mother, the legendary "Mama Cass" Elliot. Even though her daughter had only seven years of memories of her mother, she had all the stories and history from her family and Cass's many friends that provide insight into the woman she was, where she came from, her successes and failures, and the legend she became. I was astounded at her ability to know whose voices would sound great together and her influence on Crosby, Stills & Nash. The book was about Mama Cass, but also about Owen Elliot-Kugell herself and the challenges she faced before and after her mother's death. I was glad to see the stupid story of the "ham sandwich" laid to rest. This memoir is well written and I felt the love emanating from the pages.
Thanks to Hachette Books through Netgalley for an advance copy.
Description:
A long-awaited, myth-busting, and deeply affecting memoir by the daughter of legendary rock star “Mama Cass” Elliot To the rest of the world, Cass Elliot was a rock star; A charismatic, wisecracking singer from Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inducted band, The Mamas & The Papas; A legend of Laurel Canyon, decked out in her custom-made Muumuus, glittering designer jewelry, blessed with a powerful, instantly identifiable singing voice which helped define the sound of the 1960s counterculture movement. But to Owen Elliot-Kugell, she was just Mom. In the nearly 50 years since Cass Elliot’s untimely death at the age of 32, rumors and myths have swirled about, shading nearly every aspect of her life. In her long-awaited memoir, Owen Elliot-Kugell shares the groundbreaking story of her mom as only a daughter can tell it. In My Mama, Cass, Owen pulls back the curtains of her mother’s life from the sold-out theaters and behind the closed doors of her infamous California abode. Born Ellen Naomi Cohen, the woman who was known to the world as Cass Elliot was decades ahead of her an independently minded, outspoken woman who broke through a male-dominated business, a forward-thinking feminist, and a single parent who embraced motherhood from the moment Owen entered the world. From the closely guarded secret of Owen’s paternity to Cass’s lifelong struggles with self-esteem and weight to rumors surrounding her mother’s death, Owen illuminates the complex truths of her mother’s life, sharing interviews with high-profile figures who orbited Cass, as well as never-before-heard tales of her mother and this legendary period of American history. Featuring intimate family and archival photos as well as interviews and memories from high-profile figures who loved and respected Cass, this book is both a love story and a mystery, a tale of self-discovery and a daughter’s devotion. At its core, My Mama, Cass is a beautifully crafted testament befitting of Cass Elliot’s enduring cultural impact and legacy, written by the person who knew and loved her best.
My Thoughts:
This is a heartfelt memoir filled with love, pride and admiration for Owen Elliot-Kugell's mother, the legendary "Mama Cass" Elliot. Even though her daughter had only seven years of memories of her mother, she had all the stories and history from her family and Cass's many friends that provide insight into the woman she was, where she came from, her successes and failures, and the legend she became. I was astounded at her ability to know whose voices would sound great together and her influence on Crosby, Stills & Nash. The book was about Mama Cass, but also about Owen Elliot-Kugell herself and the challenges she faced before and after her mother's death. I was glad to see the stupid story of the "ham sandwich" laid to rest. This memoir is well written and I felt the love emanating from the pages.
Thanks to Hachette Books through Netgalley for an advance copy.
June 24, 2024
My Mama, Cass, written by Owen Elliot-Kugell, offers a tribute to her mother, the legendary singer Cass Elliot. I expected the book to be all about Cass Elliot. I am a huge fan of 60s music including The Mama and Papas. It seemed less of a memoir and tribute and more about the life of her daughter, Owen. I was terribly disappointed.
Read
June 24, 2024Nearly 50 years ago, Cass Elliot, Mama Cass from the folk-rock group, The Mamas and the Papas, died in London of a heart attack at age 32. She left behind her 7-year-old daughter, Owen. Being so young, Owen only knew how much she and her Mama loved each other. She knew her mother was a performer, but did not know her whole history. Owen Elliot-Kugell tells her mom’s story and shares her own story of life with and mostly without her mom. Compiling information from family members, friends, musicians, and interviews and television appearances of her mom, Owen gives the reader the full in-depth story of Cass Elliot. She sets to rest the rumor of the ham sandwich story surrounding Elliot’s death and tells how she found out who her biological dad really was.
I highly recommend this revealing, heartfelt memoir of Owen’s Mama Cass Elliot for music fans.
-Sara H.
I highly recommend this revealing, heartfelt memoir of Owen’s Mama Cass Elliot for music fans.
-Sara H.
February 11, 2024
Wonderfully written memoir about growing up the daughter of Cass Elliot, Aka Mama Cass of The Mamas and the Papas.
Author/daughter Owen Elliot- Kugell is not a musician but is an artist in her own right, as evidenced by her gift with words. Nothing salacious in this book, which is how it should be written.....only respect for the famous musicians that orbited around a songbird that died tragically too soon. Readers will be humming "Dream a Little Dream of Me
*I read an advance copy and was not compensated.
Author/daughter Owen Elliot- Kugell is not a musician but is an artist in her own right, as evidenced by her gift with words. Nothing salacious in this book, which is how it should be written.....only respect for the famous musicians that orbited around a songbird that died tragically too soon. Readers will be humming "Dream a Little Dream of Me
*I read an advance copy and was not compensated.
September 12, 2024
A book Mama Cass would have loved, the spirit of her daughter doesn't overreach - she can't tell her mother's story, so she tells the story she can. She tells of her life as a little one left behind, and of those generous souls who stepped in to fill the void left by her only parent. I found the story wrapped with a certain wistfulness that didn't diminish the hope with which she has moved into the life her mother left her. She has picked up some of her mother's interests and talents, and she has reached out in the ones that are hers alone.
Just like all of us do when that parting comes. It is never easy, but it is inevitable. A loving tribute from daughter to mother.
*A sincere thank you to Owen Elliot-Kugell, Hachette Books and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review independently.*
Just like all of us do when that parting comes. It is never easy, but it is inevitable. A loving tribute from daughter to mother.
*A sincere thank you to Owen Elliot-Kugell, Hachette Books and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review independently.*
June 1, 2024
4.5 A beautiful and compelling love letter to a mother gone too soon. Cass Elliot was major in her time, gone at only 32 years old. The young daughter she left behind tells the story of her mother’s life as well as her own. She is a great storyteller. I so enjoyed hearing about the evolution of Cass’ career. A lovely read for any memoir lover.
July 19, 2024
I didn’t really learn much about “Mama Cass” reading this book. I already knew much about her life. It’s a quick read and is probably a good book for those who want to learn something about Ellen Naomi Cohen, Mama Cass.
March 8, 2024
I was excited to read My Mama, Cass by Owen Elliot-Kugell. I knew of Mama Cass growing up, but only knew the broad strokes of her career. I knew she member of The Mamas and The Papa’s and I knew she had a successful solo career. Her music was easily recognizable. I knew about the tumultuous relationships within the band, her struggles with weight and the myth around her death at such a young age. But there was so much about Cass Elliot I did not know
Owen’s writing reads part biography and part memoir. It really hits all the right notes (see what I did there - corny music reference) Cass grew up in family that supported her and provided stability. Owen was only seven when Cass passed away, and spent her childhood being raised by Cass’s family. Her aunt and grandmother provided stability and a childhood mostly outside of the spotlight, As a way of getting to know her mother, Owen draws on articles, TV interviews and conversations with people who knew Cass.
I did not know was how instrumental Cass was in connecting people who eventually formed the major music groups of the 1960s and early 1970s. Cass raised Owen as a single mother. She balanced performing with motherhood at a time when it wasn’t common. Owen didn’t even learn the identity of her father until she was an adult. Cass was deeply interested in current events of her time and I can only image had she lived longer the impact she would have made for any number of social causes.
I enjoyed the overall quality of Owen’s storytelling. She weaves the story of her mother into childhood memories, the special connection with her grandmother, her career and relationships she has created . I was able to breeze through the book in a day. Thank you NetGalley for this advance reader copy.
Owen’s writing reads part biography and part memoir. It really hits all the right notes (see what I did there - corny music reference) Cass grew up in family that supported her and provided stability. Owen was only seven when Cass passed away, and spent her childhood being raised by Cass’s family. Her aunt and grandmother provided stability and a childhood mostly outside of the spotlight, As a way of getting to know her mother, Owen draws on articles, TV interviews and conversations with people who knew Cass.
I did not know was how instrumental Cass was in connecting people who eventually formed the major music groups of the 1960s and early 1970s. Cass raised Owen as a single mother. She balanced performing with motherhood at a time when it wasn’t common. Owen didn’t even learn the identity of her father until she was an adult. Cass was deeply interested in current events of her time and I can only image had she lived longer the impact she would have made for any number of social causes.
I enjoyed the overall quality of Owen’s storytelling. She weaves the story of her mother into childhood memories, the special connection with her grandmother, her career and relationships she has created . I was able to breeze through the book in a day. Thank you NetGalley for this advance reader copy.
June 12, 2024
A story from a totally down-to-earth young woman about growing up in amazing circumstances. Imagine being born somewhat scandalously with mysterious yet cool origins in Laurel Canyon in the 70s, where your neighbors are Frank Zappa and the dudes from CSN, and where your house is the cool house where Joni Mitchell jams. Your childhood friends were the children of The Beach Boys’ and of course, the Mamas and Papas.
That’s Owen, the only child of gone-too-soon and Uber-cool/independent Mama Cass Elliot, and you can’t help but love her.
I listened to the audiobook as delivered by Owen herself in that same rich contralto as her mother.
This book is often sad as we follow Owen’s life through childhood with an amazing supportive family, all grappling with not only the loss of Cass, but protecting her reputation from jerky fat-shamers. I still can’t believe what Michelle Phillips said at the MM&PPs Hall of Fame induction.
Again, you can’t help but root for Owen as she tells her mom’s amazing tale.
That’s Owen, the only child of gone-too-soon and Uber-cool/independent Mama Cass Elliot, and you can’t help but love her.
I listened to the audiobook as delivered by Owen herself in that same rich contralto as her mother.
This book is often sad as we follow Owen’s life through childhood with an amazing supportive family, all grappling with not only the loss of Cass, but protecting her reputation from jerky fat-shamers. I still can’t believe what Michelle Phillips said at the MM&PPs Hall of Fame induction.
Again, you can’t help but root for Owen as she tells her mom’s amazing tale.
July 29, 2024
Cass Elliot died in 1974 but her legend looms as large as her warm and engaging personality. Gifted with many talents, how can we not love her?
Owen, the daughter left behind and bereft at the age of seven, tells us about herself and her limited memories of her mother. Music flows in their blood and the song continues.
Owen, the daughter left behind and bereft at the age of seven, tells us about herself and her limited memories of her mother. Music flows in their blood and the song continues.
March 19, 2024
Thank you, NetGalley, for the free ARC of this book. I couldn’t put it down!
Cass Elliot was one of the greatest talents in pop/rock music history. Of course, she had an amazing singing voice, for which she will always be remembered. But, she was also a highly intelligent, independent woman, and decades ahead of her time. She succeeded in a male-dominated industry at a time when very few women did so. And she was, by choice, a single mother when such a thing was still frowned upon.
I remember when Owen was born. To read Owen’s memories of her mother, and the story of her own life, was truly an experience.
So again, a big thank you to NetGalley for making this memoir available to read. And an even bigger thank you to Owen for writing it!
Cass Elliot was one of the greatest talents in pop/rock music history. Of course, she had an amazing singing voice, for which she will always be remembered. But, she was also a highly intelligent, independent woman, and decades ahead of her time. She succeeded in a male-dominated industry at a time when very few women did so. And she was, by choice, a single mother when such a thing was still frowned upon.
I remember when Owen was born. To read Owen’s memories of her mother, and the story of her own life, was truly an experience.
So again, a big thank you to NetGalley for making this memoir available to read. And an even bigger thank you to Owen for writing it!
February 13, 2024
Cass Elliot's daughter Owen was just 7 years old when her mother died of a heart attack overseas during a tour. Known as "Mama Cass", she was a mainstay as part of the evolution of the California sound, the Laurel Canyon group of musicians including Crosby, Stills, and Nash, Jackson Browne, Joni Mitchell. She had a talent for connecting musicians with each other who would then produce spectacular music.
Cass was in demand professionally, yet personally had a hard time with relationships and had terribly low self esteem regarding her weight and desirability. Having a child would be someone who, in her words, "would never leave her".
Owen lived a chaotic childhood while her mother was alive, and afterward the moving around the country to various relatives and being caretaken by nannies took its toll. This memoir is both a confessional and a quest for answers, some which Owen may never get. The reader gets a glimpse behind the scenes, but just enough as feels comfortable for Owen to reveal. Several long standing myths regarding Cass are revealed as the myths they are. Many recollections of Owen's collide with her ongoing search for the truth of her parentage.
It's a bittersweet and poignant read. Most fans of Cass Elliot, Mamas and Papas, the music of that era will appreciate what Owen has shared.
Cass was in demand professionally, yet personally had a hard time with relationships and had terribly low self esteem regarding her weight and desirability. Having a child would be someone who, in her words, "would never leave her".
Owen lived a chaotic childhood while her mother was alive, and afterward the moving around the country to various relatives and being caretaken by nannies took its toll. This memoir is both a confessional and a quest for answers, some which Owen may never get. The reader gets a glimpse behind the scenes, but just enough as feels comfortable for Owen to reveal. Several long standing myths regarding Cass are revealed as the myths they are. Many recollections of Owen's collide with her ongoing search for the truth of her parentage.
It's a bittersweet and poignant read. Most fans of Cass Elliot, Mamas and Papas, the music of that era will appreciate what Owen has shared.
May 10, 2024
"How does someone experiencing that level of grief continue to put one foot in front of the other every single day - and somehow be okay? How was she not depressed beyond measure? All that I know is that she did it. She persevered because that's what she knew how to do."
Big ouchies.
Big ouchies.
March 3, 2024
What an incredible book Owen has written! I loved every word. The Mamas and the Papas were THE group when I was in high school. Cass Elliot’s death was a shock to the world. Her daughter, Owen, has written an incredible pastiche of her mom’s life. Hugely successful, Cass had the most glorious voice that she shared with the world. Anyone who loved The Mamas and The Papas should read this book!
May 20, 2024
Enjoyed a lot of the anecdotes - my main complaint is that there was too little Mama and too much Cass Jr. in this bio-memoir. Like, there could have been a lot more fleshed out on the time in CA with the whole Laurel Canyon scene, and much less about Wilson-Phillips (sorry to all those Hold On fans out there). But it was short and had some interesting tid-bits.
March 7, 2024
A daughter honors her mother in the best way she can. I cried at times and laughed out loud at times. My, Mama Cass spoke to my heart and I thank Owen Elliot-Kugell for the chance to meet her amazing mom this way.
June 16, 2024
I love how researching and writing this biography allowed Owen Elliot-Kugel to grow closer to her mother, who passed when she was seven. Such a beautiful and warm tribute. I’ve been a fan of the Mamas & The Papas’s music for a long time, but now I especially admire Cass Elliot (Mama Cass) as a person. I really enjoyed this book!
May 25, 2024
A heartwarming and poignant testament to her mother, the infamous Mama Cass Elliot - one of my favorite singers of all time. Quick read with great stories about the 60s Rock n Roll legends in her life.
February 12, 2024
Thank you netgalley for this ARC and thank you own for writing this amazing memoir about your mother. This could not have come at a more perfect time i knew of cass elliot but i didnt know much about her because she was not from my generation however i do know some of her songs from hearing them around and her voice was amazing and seeing her get alot of attention on tiktok recently made me want to read this novel and learn more about her and i am so glad i got approved for this one.. It was such a great memoir i loved that Owen had alot of stories from the people who knew cass growing up etc.. Peers and Family members sharing all the amazing stories and stuff about cass. I just know she would be so happy knowing how much her music and her in general people still listen too and love her. Owen shared very vulnerable moments in this novel making this memoir such a great piece of work losing a parent that young is so sad but knowing she had family by her side during all of this and sharing such great things about her mother was beautiful to read. I could not put this one down and one of my favorite things about this was part of this memoir was about Owens life as well so i feel like i got to know Cass and Owen in one novel. Owen shared alot of stories on her life as well as her mothers. Thank you for writing such a great book! Memoir lovers you should read this one.
Such a talented voice and a great woman!
Such a talented voice and a great woman!
October 2, 2024
I am probably not going to wind up finishing this book. I thought it was a book about Mama Cass and now a little more than half way through and it has turned into a memoir about this person who is not very interesting and I don’t personally care about. I mean a whole page about how much she loved a dog and what happened to the dog. Who cares !!!!
The two stars are because the parts about Mama Cass’s actual life, and information on the folk era that Owen gathered from research and interviews were somewhat interesting. However I did not get the sense that Mama Cass was a particularly great person or mother. The book tried to paint her as this great “working mom” who loved her daughter, but it was not effective because my takeaway was that she was away a lot, brought very shady people into her home where she lived with her child (including abusive Nannie’s that she didn’t fire), and when she was home seemed to just watch TV in bed a lot. This all on top of the fact that she got pregnant on purpose so that someone would love her and not abandon her. I mean that’s sad but also insanely selfish.
This book really made me feel quite icky.
The two stars are because the parts about Mama Cass’s actual life, and information on the folk era that Owen gathered from research and interviews were somewhat interesting. However I did not get the sense that Mama Cass was a particularly great person or mother. The book tried to paint her as this great “working mom” who loved her daughter, but it was not effective because my takeaway was that she was away a lot, brought very shady people into her home where she lived with her child (including abusive Nannie’s that she didn’t fire), and when she was home seemed to just watch TV in bed a lot. This all on top of the fact that she got pregnant on purpose so that someone would love her and not abandon her. I mean that’s sad but also insanely selfish.
This book really made me feel quite icky.
December 14, 2024
I felt duped after reading this book, “My Mama, Cass”, written by Owen Elliot- Kugel. Owen is the daughter of (Mama) Cass Elliott who died in the early 1970’s in her 30’s. What I thought I would be reading was a story about the life of former The Mamas and Papas lead singer, Mama Cass. About half of the 256 pages of this book matched my expectation, though did not provide much additional insight into the folk- rock singers life. The remaining half of the book is Owen writing about her own life after her mother’s death. Not to insult the author, but there has not been much to her life that makes it very readable. I found myself reading about her learning to drive or having a chance meeting with Al Gore. Nothing that makes a memoir interesting. Owen would have done better to devote more of the book on stories of her mom. It’s almost like she used the parts about her mom to move into her own life story, which again is not all that remarkable. She begins and ends the book about how her moms death came to be erroneously understood to be caused by her choking on a ham sandwich. That could have been explained in a blog or an article and did not require or deserve a book.
July 2, 2024
Owen Elliot-Kugell expertly weaves her own experiences in the entertainment industry and growing up with a parent in the spotlight with just the right amount of biographical details of her mother Cass Elliot. With her unique perspective and narrative prose, it makes for an engaging and entertaining read. I appreciated how she highlighted the spirit of her mother and what she brought as a whole person and not just her musical accolades. There was a lot of really memorable facts or characteristics about Cass Elliot that I found myself excited to share with others. I also enjoyed the author going through her personal journey of grief and the aftermath of losing a parent at a young age. An inspiring read that any fan of the 60's/70's music era will enjoy.
June 2, 2024
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I grew up in the 60s, and liked the Mamas & The Papas, but was never a big fan of them. That said. I liked this book a lot. The author is lucky to have so many sources of visions of her mom. I lost both of my parents by the time I was 14, and I only have a handful of photos, and no memory of their voices. Enjoyed reading about how Cass was, and felt I got to know her a bit better.
I grew up in the 60s, and liked the Mamas & The Papas, but was never a big fan of them. That said. I liked this book a lot. The author is lucky to have so many sources of visions of her mom. I lost both of my parents by the time I was 14, and I only have a handful of photos, and no memory of their voices. Enjoyed reading about how Cass was, and felt I got to know her a bit better.
May 20, 2024
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars.
I've always been a fan of the Mamas and the Papas, and when I found out that Cass Eliot's daughter Owen had a book coming out about her mother, I immediately placed a hold on a copy from the library. I really enjoyed this book.
Owen Eliot-Kugell was seven years old when she learned that her mother, Cass Eliot, had died iin July of 1974. Being the daughter of a world-famous singer already meant that her life was pretty unusual compared to most people's, but after the death, her world was turned upside down and she had to learn to cope with life growing up without a mother. Her biological father had never been a part of her life, so she couldn't rely on him, and she ended up being raised by family members.
Despite what she went through at such a young age, Owen seems pretty well-adjusted. The love she has for her mother is clear throughout the entire book. She gives a description of the family' s background, then goes on to talk about Cass's life as a singer with The Mamas and the Papas, her solo career, and then her death at age 32. She wants it to be known that Cass Eliot did not choke on a ham sandwich, as the urban legend goes. She uncovers later in her life where this story originated, and she seems to be relatively all right with it, after she learns the reason for the "ham sandwich" story. Owen also talks about her life growing up, and then her marriage to her husband and the arrival of their children.
There is a part where Owen talks about Cass Eliot getting a star on the Walk of Fame that is very touching. I also loved the anecdote regarding how Owen believes The Mamas and the Papas ended up getting inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame--Michelle Phillips was responsible, apparently.
I knew quite a bit of Cass's story already, but it was interesting to hear it from her daughter's perspective. I also was surprised to learn that Owen took part in the creation of Wilson Phillips, although she ended up not being in the group due to a decision the other group members made while Owen was away.
I removed a star (really 1. 5 stars if Goodreads allowed half star ratings) due to a few minor complaints. While Owen makes it clear that she wants to clear up the misconceptions about her mother, she doesn't include anything that might make her look bad, and omits the fact that Cass heavily used drugs throughout most of her adult life. She does mention early on that Cass gave the other group members LSD as sort of a present in hopes that they might let her join the band, but that was one of the only times she really makes any reference to her mother's use. Instead, she talks about other people around Cass who used "questionable substances," and makes it sound like Cass wasn't part of it. She definitely was, and it's well-documented. I do understand that she probably did not want to talk about dark topics regarding her mother, and that does make sense, but it comes off as a bit disingenuous to make it seem like other people around her were the only ones using drugs.
There was a situation where Cass was arrested and held overnight in jail in England in 1967, supposedly over "missing towels and linens" from a precious stay, resulting in the cancelation of a concert at the Royal Albert Hall. Owen talks about the incident, but does not clear up the misconception that she was arrested over stealing linens from a hotel. The actual reason Cass was held was because Cass had been dating a man named Pic Dawson, who the police wanted to talk to regarding his involvement in a major drug smuggling operation. The police were hoping that if they talked to Cass, they might get info on Pic, who died years later of a drug overdose. The stolen linen story was given as a way to protect her reputation. The other members of The Mamas and the Papas showed up outside the jail while Cass was there, holding signs that read "Free Mama Cass." This is not mentioned in the book, and Owen does not clear up the misconception regarding the false bed linen story, which I'm surorised by, since she supposedly wrote the book in part to clear up the rumors surrounding her mother. My guess is she didn't want to discuss the drug angle, but for those who know the whole story, it does feel a bit strange that she would just act like the official story is the correct one, when she obviously knows it is not. Not a huge deal, but it was enough for me to take off a star. Otherwise, it was an excellent book.
As someone who also met their biological father as an adult, I could really relate to Owen's feelings when she met hers (musician Chuck Day) and how strange it felt. I was 29 when I met mine and also at the same time met my half-siblings who I grew up with no knowledge of. It's a unique experience that few would understand unless they have been in that situation. I was legally adopted by my mother's husband when I was a kid, so I grew up with a dad, but I could really relate when Owen talked about having no idea what dads did when she talked to a therapist after her mom died, because that was how I felt as a kid too.
I listened to the audiobook, which was narrated by Owen. It was good, no issues other than her tendency to pronounce the word "since"as "sense." Considering some of the horrible audiobook narrators I've encountered lately, if that's the only complaint I have, I'll take it.
Overall, it was a very good book and I recommend it to anyone who is a fan of The Mamas and the Papas or anyone who enjoys musician biographies.
I've always been a fan of the Mamas and the Papas, and when I found out that Cass Eliot's daughter Owen had a book coming out about her mother, I immediately placed a hold on a copy from the library. I really enjoyed this book.
Owen Eliot-Kugell was seven years old when she learned that her mother, Cass Eliot, had died iin July of 1974. Being the daughter of a world-famous singer already meant that her life was pretty unusual compared to most people's, but after the death, her world was turned upside down and she had to learn to cope with life growing up without a mother. Her biological father had never been a part of her life, so she couldn't rely on him, and she ended up being raised by family members.
Despite what she went through at such a young age, Owen seems pretty well-adjusted. The love she has for her mother is clear throughout the entire book. She gives a description of the family' s background, then goes on to talk about Cass's life as a singer with The Mamas and the Papas, her solo career, and then her death at age 32. She wants it to be known that Cass Eliot did not choke on a ham sandwich, as the urban legend goes. She uncovers later in her life where this story originated, and she seems to be relatively all right with it, after she learns the reason for the "ham sandwich" story. Owen also talks about her life growing up, and then her marriage to her husband and the arrival of their children.
There is a part where Owen talks about Cass Eliot getting a star on the Walk of Fame that is very touching. I also loved the anecdote regarding how Owen believes The Mamas and the Papas ended up getting inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame--Michelle Phillips was responsible, apparently.
I knew quite a bit of Cass's story already, but it was interesting to hear it from her daughter's perspective. I also was surprised to learn that Owen took part in the creation of Wilson Phillips, although she ended up not being in the group due to a decision the other group members made while Owen was away.
I removed a star (really 1. 5 stars if Goodreads allowed half star ratings) due to a few minor complaints. While Owen makes it clear that she wants to clear up the misconceptions about her mother, she doesn't include anything that might make her look bad, and omits the fact that Cass heavily used drugs throughout most of her adult life. She does mention early on that Cass gave the other group members LSD as sort of a present in hopes that they might let her join the band, but that was one of the only times she really makes any reference to her mother's use. Instead, she talks about other people around Cass who used "questionable substances," and makes it sound like Cass wasn't part of it. She definitely was, and it's well-documented. I do understand that she probably did not want to talk about dark topics regarding her mother, and that does make sense, but it comes off as a bit disingenuous to make it seem like other people around her were the only ones using drugs.
There was a situation where Cass was arrested and held overnight in jail in England in 1967, supposedly over "missing towels and linens" from a precious stay, resulting in the cancelation of a concert at the Royal Albert Hall. Owen talks about the incident, but does not clear up the misconception that she was arrested over stealing linens from a hotel. The actual reason Cass was held was because Cass had been dating a man named Pic Dawson, who the police wanted to talk to regarding his involvement in a major drug smuggling operation. The police were hoping that if they talked to Cass, they might get info on Pic, who died years later of a drug overdose. The stolen linen story was given as a way to protect her reputation. The other members of The Mamas and the Papas showed up outside the jail while Cass was there, holding signs that read "Free Mama Cass." This is not mentioned in the book, and Owen does not clear up the misconception regarding the false bed linen story, which I'm surorised by, since she supposedly wrote the book in part to clear up the rumors surrounding her mother. My guess is she didn't want to discuss the drug angle, but for those who know the whole story, it does feel a bit strange that she would just act like the official story is the correct one, when she obviously knows it is not. Not a huge deal, but it was enough for me to take off a star. Otherwise, it was an excellent book.
As someone who also met their biological father as an adult, I could really relate to Owen's feelings when she met hers (musician Chuck Day) and how strange it felt. I was 29 when I met mine and also at the same time met my half-siblings who I grew up with no knowledge of. It's a unique experience that few would understand unless they have been in that situation. I was legally adopted by my mother's husband when I was a kid, so I grew up with a dad, but I could really relate when Owen talked about having no idea what dads did when she talked to a therapist after her mom died, because that was how I felt as a kid too.
I listened to the audiobook, which was narrated by Owen. It was good, no issues other than her tendency to pronounce the word "since"as "sense." Considering some of the horrible audiobook narrators I've encountered lately, if that's the only complaint I have, I'll take it.
Overall, it was a very good book and I recommend it to anyone who is a fan of The Mamas and the Papas or anyone who enjoys musician biographies.
June 23, 2024
Excellent! A loving tribute to singer Mama Cass by her daughter Owen who lost her
Mother at a young age.And for fans of the Mamas and the Papas it is a history lesson of
Years ago when people got together to form bands, roaming from New York City
To California, 50 years ago in fact,when this band put out hit after hit! Of interest would be that Denny grew up in the North end of Halifax, were I grew up. Mama Cass,John Phillips,Michelle Phillips and Denny eventually got together and made it
Big.the offspring of the singers became friends and started their own bands. Owen
Was always considered part of them. For example Wilson Philip members Chyna
Philips was daughter of Michelle Phillips and Carney Wilson- the Beach Boys. A lyric
Of one hit song says”and nobody’s getting fat except Mama Cass”. It was not right 50
Years ago and not right today. She was the star of the band,and it hurt her deeply.
So pleased that a bio was finally written about the history of bands and people back then but it was such a love song to a Mother from her child.Mama Cass was 32 yrs old when she passed away from a heart attack in London, and had an exceptional
Voice and now her daughter became her voice! Awesome,and I still have their CD
Of their greatest hits,which were s great now as they were 50 years ago.
Mother at a young age.And for fans of the Mamas and the Papas it is a history lesson of
Years ago when people got together to form bands, roaming from New York City
To California, 50 years ago in fact,when this band put out hit after hit! Of interest would be that Denny grew up in the North end of Halifax, were I grew up. Mama Cass,John Phillips,Michelle Phillips and Denny eventually got together and made it
Big.the offspring of the singers became friends and started their own bands. Owen
Was always considered part of them. For example Wilson Philip members Chyna
Philips was daughter of Michelle Phillips and Carney Wilson- the Beach Boys. A lyric
Of one hit song says”and nobody’s getting fat except Mama Cass”. It was not right 50
Years ago and not right today. She was the star of the band,and it hurt her deeply.
So pleased that a bio was finally written about the history of bands and people back then but it was such a love song to a Mother from her child.Mama Cass was 32 yrs old when she passed away from a heart attack in London, and had an exceptional
Voice and now her daughter became her voice! Awesome,and I still have their CD
Of their greatest hits,which were s great now as they were 50 years ago.
January 19, 2025
Gifted with a legendary voice and talent, Cass Elliot helped define the 1960s music scene with the Mamas and the Papas. Sadly, she passed away entirely too young under unexpected circumstances, leaving behind her young daughter, Owen.
This touching tribute to the author's famous mother will be appreciated by any fan of the '60s and '70s music scene. Readers' minds will be filled with classic songs, but they will also be exposed to hidden gems of Cass's solo work. While it loses steam some as it it progresses, MY MAMA still shouldn't be missed.
In case you are wondering, Elliot-Kugell directly addresses the persistent rumor about Cass's death. No, she did not choke--no food was found at all in her airway at her autopsy. Cass Elliot suffered a fatal heart attack. Sadly, because she was heavy, Cass Elliot was so often mocked in pop culture that even her death became a punchline. Cass learned to laugh it off in public but clearly struggled with this cruelty.
This touching tribute to the author's famous mother will be appreciated by any fan of the '60s and '70s music scene. Readers' minds will be filled with classic songs, but they will also be exposed to hidden gems of Cass's solo work. While it loses steam some as it it progresses, MY MAMA still shouldn't be missed.
In case you are wondering, Elliot-Kugell directly addresses the persistent rumor about Cass's death. No, she did not choke--no food was found at all in her airway at her autopsy. Cass Elliot suffered a fatal heart attack. Sadly, because she was heavy, Cass Elliot was so often mocked in pop culture that even her death became a punchline. Cass learned to laugh it off in public but clearly struggled with this cruelty.
June 15, 2025
In this heart-felt tribute to her mother, daughter Owen putts on full display the Cass Elliot who helped propel the Mama’s and the Papa’s into the stratosphere and who died much too young. She was on the edge of a huge breakthrough as a single’s artist. Owen was only seven when her mother died but she had not only her personal memories, but the stories from her family. stories from her mother’s contemporaries, family mementos, and countless stories and features through the media. There’s no fluff here. Rumors are dispelled and/or confirmed leaving us with the most honest book on Mama Cass that has ever been or probably will ever be written.
August 23, 2024
Cass Elliot was a talented performer whom we lost way too soon. I didn't realize until reading this book that she had Broadway experience before starting her pop music career. She had perfect pipes for the theatre as well as comic timing so her loss affected both the pop music and theatre worlds. Cass's daughter, Owen, lost her mother at a very young age so she has few memories of her and relied on Cass's friends and relatives to share their memories with her. The book was interesting but I believe a more objective author could have provided deeper insight into this complex woman.
December 18, 2024
Made me love Cass Elliot even more and wish she’d been around even longer. Her love and beauty are still felt and understood today. I think we’ve only just begun to understand the legacy she has left and her memory will blossom with centuries that will go by. Great memoir that would make Owen’s mama proud.
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