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I'm a fan of Sidney Sheldon's novels, so reading THE OTHER SIDE OF ME was a treat. The title was inspired by one of his biggest selling books, THE OTHER SIDE OF MIDNIGHT, with "the other side" referring to Sheldon's career before becoming a popular author. Some fans may be aware that Sheldon started his adult life trying to break into the entertainment business. His first attempts were aimed at writing plays; this eventually led to a career on Broadway, which in turn led to Hollywood, movies and television.
What a fascinating life Sheldon has had so far! Part of his success can be attributed to luck (being in the right place at the right time), but a large part has to do with his almost stubborn need to succeed when he's told "No." I thought some of Sheldon's tactics were a bit underhanded. For example, he lied to the government to try to get into the Air Force. He didn't pass the eye exam but found a way to fake it; the government eventually figured him out, though it took them a long time. But this is just one example of what Sheldon was able to accomplish despite the odds against him.
This memoir is filled with a number of wonderful anecdotes about his days mingling with Broadway and Hollywood royalty, including Groucho Marx, Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor and Kirk Douglas. My own anecdote about Sheldon comes from a writer friend of mine. A number of years ago, she told me how she had met him at a writers' event and that he was such a gentleman. I had already read a number of his books by that time and was a big fan, but I had no idea prior to that conversation that Sheldon was the creator of such classic television programs as "I Dream of Jeannie" and "The Patty Duke Show."
This is a candid look at Sheldon's very interesting life, and readers will gain great insight into what makes him tick. Sheldon is still writing novels, which he admits is his most favorite achievement. THE OTHER SIDE OF ME is recommended for Sidney Sheldon fans and for those who enjoy reading memoirs and entertainment-related books.
--- Reviewed by Marie Hashima Lofton (Ratmammy@lofton.org)
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