HOME A Memoir of My Early Years

Would you believe there once was a time when Julie Andrews didn't enjoy singing lessons? The musical star recalls her turbulent childhood and the start of her career in an autobiography that takes her from her youthful experiences as one of Britain's last music hall stars to her rough transition to the legitimate stage. Andrews's voice still has the lilting, reassuring tones of Mary Poppins, even if her reminiscences aren't so saccharine. She comes across as a trouper, her love of theater and singing coming through in her language and the joy with which she reads it. Andrews gives listeners a fascinating look at the waning years of British vaudeville. J.A.S. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/ SEP 08]