Mabel Normand - by Timothy Dean Lefler (Paperback)

About the Book

""American silent film actress Mabel Normand (1892-1930) appeared in a string of popular movies opposite stars like Charlie Chaplin and Fatty Arbuckle before dying of tuberculosis at 37. Her brief but remarkable career-which included directorial and writing credits and heading her own studio and production company-was eclipsed by scandal when police connected her to the unsolved 1922 murder of director William Desmond Taylor. Tracing her life from humble beginnings on Staten Island to the heights of world superstardom, this book highlights Normand's substantial yet largely overlooked contributions to film history and popular culture."-Provided by publisher"--

Book Synopsis

American silent film actress Mabel Normand (1892-1930) appeared in a string of popular movies opposite stars like Charlie Chaplin and Fatty Arbuckle before dying of tuberculosis at 37. Her brief but remarkable career--which included directorial and writing credits and heading her own studio and production company--was eclipsed by scandal when police connected her to the unsolved 1922 murder of director William Desmond Taylor.Tracing her life from humble beginnings on Staten Island to the heights of world superstardom, this book highlights Normand's substantial yet largely overlooked contributions to film history and popular culture.

Review Quotes

Reviews from first edition: "Offers a great deal of insight, understanding, and appreciation to one of cinema's most significant pioneers. Lefler's book is deep, enlightening, informative, and fulfilling. One of the finest books ever written on an actor or filmmaker...most passionately recommended"--Examiner

"a worthwhile introduction...a look at the great early comedian"--The Huffington Post/I>

"the book takes us back to the silent film era and one of its major though short-lived comedy stars...Lefler outlines the basics of her film career from her first "shorts" in 1910 through her final films in 1927"--Communications Booknotes Quarterly.

"very welcome...[this book] has set a new standard"--Silent-ology

"Lefler writes, 'the time for a reassessment of [Normand's] life and career is overdue.' His detailed, carefully researched account fits the bill and is written with the enthusiasm of a devoted fan...The book's epigraph features Normand's own words, 'I had no precedent, nothing to imitate. I had to create my own standard of fun.' This lively and entertaining biography tells just how she did it."--Booklist

"Lefler's affectionate reappraisal recognizes Mabel Normand, the silent film actress, screenwriter, director, and producer, as the holder of many firsts...this retrospective shows Normand as exuberant, flirtatious, bookish, and generous...enlightening"--Library Journal

About the Author

Timothy Dean Lefler is an author, artist, teacher and co-designer of The Beach Boys Historic Monument in Hawthorne, California. He lives in Rancho Cucamonga.