Jeanette MacDonald: A Pictorial Treasury – 50th Anniversary Special Edition

by Sharon Rich

ISBN: 978-1-7376812-4-3 (hardcover)

This hardcover edition is a faithful replica of Sharon Rich’s oversized debut book, originally written in 1973 when she was just nineteen. Celebrated as a beautifully produced “coffee table” volume, it holds the distinction of being the first published biography of MGM star and singer Jeanette MacDonald. It was also the first to correctly document MacDonald’s birth date and to subtly suggest that her relationship with co-star Nelson Eddy extended beyond mere friendship.

The 50th Anniversary Edition features a full reproduction of the original photo-filled book, along with a new introduction and an additional chapter. In these new sections, Rich shares the compelling backstory behind the book’s creation—a journey made possible through her close friendship with Jeanette’s sister, actress Blossom Rock, to whom the book is dedicated. Rock provided invaluable support: personal recollections, introductions to key sources, and rare photographs from her own collection. She kept her copy on her night table until her passing five years later.

Originally selected by the Movie/Entertainment Book Club, the book earned Rich the distinction of being the youngest author ever to receive that honor. In the years after, Sharon Rich became a noted film historian and author of several books including the best selling biography of both MacDonald and Nelson Eddy, Sweethearts.

Review from the original book: “Sharon Rich has triumphantly brought Jeanette MacDonald to life on paper and given the reader a true pictorial treasury.” – Barney Glazer, South Pasadena Review