Growing Up Spoiled in Beverly Hills

The blessings of privilege and power are not unmixed, according to magazine writer and former TV actress Klein in this curious combination of childhood reminiscence and initiate's guide. Granddaughter of the founder of the Klein department stores, she had an advantaged childhood, but notes that despite such luxuries as kiddie parties complete with live elephant, children from such backgrounds often suffer emotional problems, and the list of young suicides from celebrity families is a long one. She herself was anorectic as an adolescent. This slim, anecdote-filled volume also offers a gossipy guide to Beverly Hills schools, clubs, restaurants and their patrons. Klein describes the mansions of the stars, recommends real estate agents who handle them and security firms that protect them. Fashionable boutiques and hairdressers are endorsed, as are plastic surgeons, health spas and exercise classes; group therapy for ex-wives of celebrities can be found at meetings of L.A.D.I.E.S. (April 17)