The Andrews Sisters  - Laverne, Maxene and Patty  -  the legendary singing trio of the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s, were the most successful female singing group in history and were the world’s top selling group until the Beatles arrived. Of the 605 songs they recorded, 113 were charted. They also made eighteen movies, appeared regularly on radio and television, and entertained three generations of GIs.

Written by H. Arlo Nimmo, professor emeritus of sociology at California State University, San Francisco, The Andrews Sisters: A Biography And Career Record (McFarland and Company, February 2004) is based on extensive research, unpublished letters, and interviews with family, friends, and colleagues. The 526-page book documents not only the lives and work of the Andrews Sisters but also the popular culture spanned by their long careers. The book also contains a complete discography of their released, unreleased, and solo recordings, including recording dates, record numbers, and accompaniment. Also included are a filmography and documentation of their radio and television appearances.

To describe this work about the popular trio as definitive would be an understatement. If you want to know why Maxene and Patty were estranged, the reasons are given here and while such reasons sound logical, it was unfortunate and ultimately tragic. Patty Andrews chose not to be interviewed for this book and while one respects her decision, the book would probably have benefited from her contributions.

A must-have book for all serious Andrews Sisters aficionados!
                                                                           

- Stephen Fratallone/Jazz Connection Magazin

Rating:  *****

The Andrews Sisters: A Biography And Career Record (hardcover edition) by H. Arlo Nimmo may be purchased on-line through Amazon.com at www.amazon.com  The list price for this book new is $55.

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