The book's pages contain all the information you ever wanted to know about the fabulous stars who participated in the ritual of leaving hand and foot prints, along with other unique marks and inscriptions of their choice in the cement of the forecourt at Sid Grauman's Chinese Theater. Grauman made his fortune in the exhibition business before the Grauman's Chinese Theatre was built. He owned and operated several theaters in downtown Los Angeles, some with an exotic theme. Grauman was the consummate showman from the P.T. Barnum mold, and is credited with publicity innovations including placing huge searchlights in front of the theater to attract attention. No slab ever cracked that was poured personally by Mr. Klossner, who took his secret recipe to the grave.
Every slab tells a story in the famous forecourt.
Superlative cinema historians Stacey Endres and Robert Cushman have combined their talents and have thoroughly researched and presented the genesis of this time honored tradition, which is still observed at this late date. They provide for our curiosity fascinating details about all the participants. Many myths and legends have sprung up around the figures of Sid Grauman and his good pals. There is also a thoughtful and necessary inclusion of a map of the forecourt identifying the location of each and every luminary for pinpoint reference. The renowned impresario owned the theater as an individual until 1929.