Dietrich »

Teaches screenwriting at Birbeck college, and has collaborated on an opera with the British composer Paul Archbold. She has won many prizes for her short films.

The fascinating life of one of the great entertainment icons of the 20th century.

Publishers Weekly

Sk rved's snazzy little volume, part of Haus's Life & Times series, pays homage to the glamorous star of Shanghai Express and Destry Rides Again. Showing Dietrich (1901-1992) as a woman who had impeccable "control of her persona and career," the author presents a chronological view of the actress's life, from her German youth to her Hollywood successes. Pull-out quotes (printed in red) and intriguing tidbits about Dietrich's life add pizzazz and colorful details. Despite its slim, pocket-sized format, the work is comprehensive; Sk rved, who teaches screenwriting at London's Birkbeck College, paints a well-rounded portrait not only of the woman, but of the era in which she lived. Among the dramatic b&w and color photographs are images depicting the siren being showered with carnations after a 1963 Stockholm theater performance and of her donning a jacket and tie on her first Atlantic crossing in 1930. (July 15) Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information.