American Prince: A Memoir

by: Tony Curtis with Peter Golenbock

Published by: Harmony Books

Reviewed by Shawn Remfrey

Bernie Schwartz was born in 1925. Throughout a rough childhood, he went to the movies to escape from everyday reality. After a stint in the navy, he moved to Hollywood and changed his name to Tony Curtis. He became a famous actor who played in titles such as “The Flintstones, Some Like It Hot,” and “Spartacus.” Later in life he found a passion for painting. He and his current wife, Jill, run a ranch for abandoned and abused horses.

This book was a blast to read! Not only does Tony give all the dirt on himself, he also tells some fabulous stories about his friends and co-workers. I love the stories about Jack Lemmon, Walter Matthau, James Dean, and Frank Sinatra. He really gives you a feel for not only who he is, but who all of these other icons are and were. He tells what really happened between him and several famous actresses such as Marilyn Monroe and Suzanne Pleshette. There is also a section with beautiful pictures of Tony and others.

We also have access to his personal life. He goes in-depth about the mental issues that have plagued his family, including himself. Not only does he go into details about what his childhood was like, he tells us all about the death of his little brother, Julie and the birth of his second brother, Bobby. There is a good glimpse into a life of neglect and abuse. Later he goes on to tell us about all four of his marriages and his children.

Whether you’re a fan of Tony Curtis, or you’ve never even heard of him, this is a great read. It tells the story of a man who climbs from nothing to the top where he finds the dreams he worked so hard for, but along the way he has to sacrifice his other dreams.

If you love actors from this era like I do, then this is a book for your keeper shelf.

Armchair Interviews agrees.

Author’s Web site: http://www.TonyCurtis.com