Hands with a Heart - by Gayle D Haffner (Paperback)

About the Book

Book Synopsis

ENDORSEMENTS: Actress Ann B. Davis Hometown Historian (Parsons, KS)

Co-Founders of the Gale Storm Appreciation Society, Edd Bayes & Ron Baker

THE MOST COMPLETE CAREER LISTING ANYWHERE Venues and Dates

Films Stage Plays Television Radio Vaudeville

Known for her attention to detail, writer Haffner celebrates twelve years of research and family eldercare responsibilities of her own to bring ZaSu Pitts back to life for her fans.

In order to reflect Pitts' own sense of humor and whimsy, Haffner has used extensive, actual interview quotes of the actress, and couches the organization and expression of the book's narrative in a Plethora of Pittsiana Prose!

"ZaSu Pitts: The funniest woman in Hollywood!"

Known for her fluttery hand movements while waiving her hankie, and exclaiming, "Oh, dear!" ZaSu Pitts arose from poverty to the ranks of Hollywood's most popular actors. Through interviews with family and friends, Haffner reveals the long silent personal story of courtroom appearances and generosity toward others.

Honored as a Hollywood Legend with her own United States postage stamp!

The Second Degree of ZaSu Pitts should replace the trivia game of Six Degrees of Separation of Kevin Bacon, based on Bacon directly working with any given actor in films. Pitts worked with 90% of two generations in Hollywood, and Haffner has referenced those other stars' biographies in her extensive Bibliography.

A woman of great patriotic fervor.

Daughter of a disabled Civil War veteran, ZaSu Pitts became a staunch supporter of American patriotic tradition and spoke at election rallies from coast to coast. Her most notable stumping speech was even quoted in the U.S. Congressional Record.

A breast cancer survivor and woman of strong Christian faith.

After extensive surgery, Pitts credited her recovery to the faithful prayers of friends.

DEDICATION: To Songstress of Scotland, Susan Boyle A Modern-Day ZaSu Pitts!

The two women share: Compound names Susan's fans call her SuBo

Poor Irish heritage Highly giving & compassionate nature Strong Christian faith International popularity in Entertainment

"The greatest of all tragediennes."

Under the direction of perfectionist Erich von Stroheim, Pitts turned out the dramatic role of her lifetime in the epic, Greed (1924), a silent film which originally ran for twelve hours viewing time. Critics responded, "Art must weep when Miss Pitts plays a comedic role, for she is the greatest of all tragediennes."

Writer Haffner also shares from her extensive collection of ZaSu Pitts photographs.