The Piaf Legend

In yet another biography of Edith Piaf, an English writer tries to explain why the recorded singing of a tiny waif-like woman in a ``little black dress'' continues to move people throughout the world, 26 years after her death. Bret presents little new information--and is no more successful than his predecessors in uncovering the reasons for Piaf's enormous appeal. Again he tells the story of her humble beginnings, her early enduring fame, her dramatic flair, generosity and love of life, marriages, many affairs. Reflecting the words of one of her most popular songs, Piaf, in Bret's portrait, lived life to the fullest and cared for people, but not for what they thought of her. Photos. (Apr.)