Dean Martin: King of the Road

by Michael Freedland

Singer, actor, and member of the infamous Rat Pack, Dean Martin was a star who had it all—money, women, and fame. Now Michael Freedland looks at his life, his career, and his enduring appeal. Beginning with his Ohio childhood as a son of Italian immigrants, Freedland dispels the myths surrounding Martin, a consummate professional who worked hard to cultivate a reputation for laziness. The author, who had exclusive access to Martin's family and friends, includes interviews with the star’s wife Jeanne, his daughter Gail, and his comedy partner Jerry Lewis. Dean King of the Road offers a close-up look at an American icon, including his lifelong relationship with Frank Sinatra, the tragic death of his son, his relationships with the Kennedys and various Mafiosi, and his three marriages.

Genres: Biography, Music

226 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[GoldGato · Rating 1 out of 5]

Dean Martin's coolness has created a bunch of books about him. Alas, this is not one of the good ones. There are proofreading errors (really, I don't think anyone proofed this before it went to print), the page numbers are smooshed together so that eights look like sixes, and timeframes seem to jump through black holes.

For example, the author places Gary Cooper in the 1970s (even though he died in 1961) and quotes from previous decades end up in other decades. Very bizarre. Maybe I should have read this after several margaritas.

Book Season = Summer (Dino deserves better)

[Mike Lemke · Rating 5 out of 5]

I checked out this book along with "The Rat Pack" from the library. I chose this book first because of my interest in Dean specifically. This book did not disappoint. As I am typing now, I am overwhelmed with sadness. One because I hate coming to an end of a great story, and two, I missed out on enjoying the life of such a great entertainer.

The author painted a perfect picture of the life of Dean Martin known to many as Dino. From the rough beginnings, the solo success to the ups and downs throughout his life. This is probably in my top 3 of biographies. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a story about persevering through life's trials and tribulations. Good times and bad. Friends and most of all Family.

Thanks Dino.

[Chester Sayler · Rating 5 out of 5]

GREAT ENTERTAINER GOOD BOOK

Well done story of a talented singer a great straight man and then later master of comedy. The story is very detailed from birth to death. I enjoyed reading about a man who loved family and achieved success beyond his wildest dreams. Well done Deno and thanks Michael for a fun read.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I watched and listened to Dean Martin all the while I was growing up. I wasn’t disappointed in this book because I really didn’t know much about his personal life. I’m sure I will want to read biographies about the other members of the rat pack.

[Lloyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Accolades

I have Always loved his music And his movies. I still Look at all his Roast on TV. I totally enjoyed this book And I normally only read Fiction. I believe the writer did a superb job. Anyone who loved Dean martin should Read this book. Thank you Michael

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

very interesting insight into Dean Martin's professional and personal life.

[Les · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read

[Xenos · Rating 3 out of 5]

This read like a textbook - lots of great information, but...kinda boring. (Which says a lot since Dean's life was anything but!)

[Philip Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant

Best entertainer for me was Dean Martin, funny, great voice and a canny actor. This is a very insightful read with lots of detail. Great read.

[JANE · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

Well written and researched. I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in Dean Martin's life. . . .

[Bettie]

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