Miss D and Me: Life with the Invincible Bette Davis
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Miss D and Me: Life with the Invincible Bette Davis

Miss D and Me: Life with the Invincible Bette Davis

Overview

Miss D and Me: Life with the Invincible Bette Davis by Kathryn Sermak

The untold story of the unique friendship between Hollywood icon Bette Davis and her young assistant and protégé, Kathryn Sermak, who became her best friend and loyal companion during the final decade of Davis's life.

When Kathryn started working for "Miss D" in 1979, the recent college graduate had to be schooled by her new employer in everything from how to give a proper handshake to which fork to use for dinner by her exacting, sometimes imperious boss. But she also got a front-row seat to glamorous, inner workings of Hollywood and its denizens--and also the dark side of that world. Using one of their final road trips together in France during the summer of 1985 as a backdrop, this is the story of Kathryn and Miss D's unlikely friendship and a fascinating look at a larger-than-life diva who was determined to live her life on her own terms.

Product Details

ISBN-13: 9780316507844
Publisher: Hachette Books
Publication date: 09/12/2017
Pages: 288
Sales rank: 236,552
Product dimensions: 6.00(w) x 9.10(h) x 1.10(d)

About the Author

Kathryn Sermak is the co-founder of the Bette Davis Foundation and co-executor of the Bette Davis Estate. In addition to Bette Davis, Kathryn has been personal assistant to HH Princess Shams Pahlavi; French actress, Isabelle Adjani; the statesman and journalist, Pierre Salinger; astronaut Dr. Buzz Aldrin, Motown Founder, Berry Gordy Jr.; famed American designer, Patrick Kelly; and the co-creator of "Where's Waldo," Michael Gornall. Kathryn was also among the first to receive the Personal Assistant Career Award in 2003.

Table of Contents

Preface 1

1 I Have a Hunch About You 16

2 On the Set in London 34

3 The Pygmalion Year 60

4 Family Reunion 90

5 All for Love 119

6 Gigi's Return 136

7 The Battle Begins 150

8 Back in California 164

9 Pierre's Visit 173

10 The Breakdown in San Ysidro 187

11 On the Beach in Malibu 200

12 A Farewell from Bede 212

13 Road Trip: Day One-Biarritz to Bordeaux 221

14 Road Trip: Day Two-Bordeaux to Poitiers 236

15 Road Trip: Day Three-Poitiers to Orleans 244

16 Road Trip: Day Four-Orleans to Paris 253

Afterword: Denouement in San Sebastian 258

Acknowledgments 275

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Miss D and Me: Life with the Invincible Bette Davis 5 out of 5 based on 0 ratings. 6 reviews.
Anonymous More than 1 year ago
I enjoyed the book so much and could not put it down. Read the book in 2 evenings!
Jason Cope More than 1 year ago
This is truly a most fascinating book chronicling some amazing experiences working with the grand actress, Bette Davis. Its very personal to the feelings of the author in her relationship and how everything progressed to where they shared a very respectful and loving relationship. It wonderful that Ms. Sermak was able to provide love and care to the elderly actress, but also what she learned in return from her. Its an amazing read. I am not the most avid reader these days, but I could not put this one down.
Anonymous More than 1 year ago
I loved this book, I started it and could not put it down.
Anonymous More than 1 year ago
Really enjoyed it.
Anonymous More than 1 year ago
Enjoy !
Deb-Krenzer More than 1 year ago
After having loved "Whatever Happened to Baby Jane" and watching "Feud" on TV, I was very excited to get the chance to read this book. I have always loved that movie and the ensuing "feud" behind the scenes. This book was perhaps one of the more interesting memoirs that I have read written by someone who knew the star and spent time with them. I loved the technique and style that was used in writing this book and certainly enjoyed reading it. A person could tell that the author truly felt a lot for the star. And, of course, seeing the personal side of Bette Davis, a true coup. Thanks to Hatchett Books and Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.