How I Lost 10 Pounds in 53 Years

the long version

Kaye Ballard started as a singer/flutist with novelty bandleader Spike Jones and never stopped. During her career she worked in nightclubs, on Broadway, made the cover of Life, and worked in television. This is her review of all these events, including her childhood in Cleveland. I had no deep interest in Ballard, but the used book was cheap. I came away with respect for the author's good humor and tenacity. This is mostly a feel-good bio, but it has some interesting takes on other performers, musicians, and authors.