Helpful Score: 1
At first glance, you might think this is a book about post WWII New York, and the young people trying to make it on Broadway. This is sort of that, but much more. Joseph McCarthy figures large in this story, and the hunt for Communists in the entertainment field, particularly Broadway. While it is a good story, you have to keep reminding yourself that this is real, this really happened to people back in the fifties. It reads quickly, and has enough twists and turns to keep you reading.
I really enjoyed this book focused on the impact of McCarthyism on New York City theater's actors, playwrights and directors. Although I had heard about the problems in Hollywood, this was the first time I think I had read anything written about New York's problems. I believe that the characters were fictitious although they may have been based on someone real. However, there were actually very few real names used during the book. It seemed to lack the intensity that I believe existed during that time period but the betrayal of friendship seemed quite real. I felt that Hazel should have gone through more angst and introspection when times got tough but I found myself rooting for her nonetheless. A fascinating read!
