Ok, so this book has nothing to do with Barbara Streisand, but it does feature a beautiful woman with wit to spare, and confidence enough to rise to stardom when no one takes her seriously. So, ya know, same thing. Minus the musical numbers.
If you were expecting a novelization of the classic movie musical, like almost everyone who has seen the book on my shelf, you may be disappointed at first. But only at first. Nick Hornby’s story takes you back to the 60s and into London, introducing Sophie Straw, a bombshell who could do just fine for herself as a pretty face selling perfume or even modeling. But obviously that’s not enough for her. She knows how funny she is and has only one goal in life: to be the English Lucille Ball. Who knew being so pretty could get in the way of being so funny? On her push to fame, Sophie meets producers, writers, directors, a huge cast of characters all setting Sophie up for her next big gag.
For anyone who laments the current reality TV trends and longs for the bygone beauties of classic small screen, this book is for you. Reading about Sophie’s failures and triumphs in auditions, her interaction with writers and directors, you can almost hear the live studio audience laughing in your ear. There were moments that made me feel as if I were watching I love Lucy re-runs or some other sit-com that Sophie would have killed to be cast in. Sophie’s passion and confidence aren’t unlike other girls you’ve seen in these shows, but her quick wit and sharp banter make reading the behind the scenes stuff just as fun. The dialogue between characters is part of what sells the sit-com feel of the novel. While some of the characters lack a little individuality, most play a supporting role to Sophie in the spotlight and make her shine even brighter. As her story progresses, we are treated to a look at how careers in the TV industry change over time; Sophie starts as nothing, makes a name for herself, becomes loved by all, and beyond.
So turn the TV off, pick up Nick Hornby’s Funny Girl and have yourself a few laughs. I promise, the Bachelorette doesn’t need you.
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