THE MARX BROTHERS

by Kyle Crichton ‧ RELEASE DATE: June 15, 1950

The not so happy and not so lucky annals of the Marx family which chronicles their really rough climb to fame. It is the story of Groucho, Harpo, Zeppo, Gummo, and Chico and particularly and especially of Minnie, their bouncey, indefatigable, sanguine mother, who, once she made up her mind that her sons were to be entertainers, kept them on their toes, even after success was theirs. It is a sad little picture of their start -- Groucho's voice which led to measly engagements, Harpo's dream of becoming a butcher which was slaughtered on the block of family finances, Chico whose early love of gambling led to many a tragedy -- and comedy, and finally the development of an act, helped and hampered by Janie and her uncontrollable voice. Then there was the act with their Mother and aunt- and finally the setting of their own brand of zany performance which brought them a following to this day as loyal as any fanatic cult. This is a hoopla biography which misses none of the heartbreak of show business, nor the humor, nor the commendable tenacity of a family project. A must for the Marx followers -- and good rags to riches biography.

Pub Date: June 15, 1950

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Doubleday

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 1, 1950

Categories: NONFICTION