Richie
asked
Melanie Benjamin:
I saw in the Penguin Random House "12 Authors Reading" email that "Auntie Mame" is one of your reading picks. I love that! I love camp so naturally I love Patrick Dennis. I also love reading old Hollywood autobiographies which leads me to ask: what books did you read to prepare for writing "The Girls in the Picture"? I am super excited to read it!
Melanie Benjamin
Thanks for asking! The biography of Frances, called "Without Lying Down," by Carrie Beauchamp, was a book I'd loved for years, and which would probably be a primary inspiration for this story. I then also read bios of Mary Pickford, Douglas Fairbanks, Frances's memoirs called "Off With Their Heads!" and Hedda Hopper's memoirs, as well as Adela Rogers St. John's. And then books about the silent era - "The Parade's Gone By" is one of my favorites.
More Answered Questions
DianeLyn Bennett
asked
Melanie Benjamin:
I loved your novel The Children's Blizzard. Thanks so much for writing such a gripping read! I have reviewed it here and also on my book review blog - thecozybookblog.com. Any other novels coming out soon? I'd love to check them out as I completely enjoy your writing style. Thanks! :) Best, Diane-Lyn
Pat (AZ Realtor) 480-840-7166
asked
Melanie Benjamin:
Swans was a great book. When you got to the part where Capote wrote 'Breakfast at Tiffany's', I took an interlude from your book and read it. I should have done it later when you mention 'In Cold Blood', but I really wanted to finish your book. Should I read 'In Cold Blood'? Not sure it's my type of book.
Joan
asked
Melanie Benjamin:
Melanie, I loved The Swans of Fifth Avenue and reviewed it here. Such fascinating insights into Truman Capote and his "swans". I also publish my reviews on my blog, No Shortage of Words...so it's there too. Looking forward to reading more of your work. Have you seen this? https://www.linkedin.com/posts/ivshaw_condenastarchive-vogue-activity-6771155382044762112-iPkm
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