One of the Family
This is an extraordinary remembrance of Sheilah Graham (Hollywood columnist for over 30 years and lover of F. Scott Fitzgerald) by her daughter. Fairey weaves an engrossing tale of growing up in a bizarre household where Graham, long separated from her husband, served as mother and father to her two children, whom she adored. Graham spent a lifetime disguising her early years as a Jewish orphan in London. The real revelation for Fairey came after Graham's 1988 death when she learned that her father was not businessman Trevor Westbrook, but English philosopher A.J. "Freddie" Ayer. Fairey exhibits patience and understanding, and her writing reflects neither bitterness nor vindictiveness. Through her process of reconciliation, she helps readers to accept their own family quirks. This well-written and thoughtful memoir is highly recommended.- Linda Beck, Indian Valley P.L., Telford, Pa.Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.