We're Ready for You, Mr. Grodin: Behind the Scenes at Talk Shows, Movies, and Elsewhere

Grodin's (It Would Be So Nice If You Weren't Here) book is mostly a collection of brief observations and capsule reviews of showbiz-related subjects. He covers a lot of ground with anecdotes about appearing on talk shows, his acting and writing experiences in the theater and making personal appearances, along with snippets on some 19 personalities with whom he has worked, including Art Carney, Jackie Mason, Bill Murrary and John Belushi. The longest section devoted to a single topic is of Grodin's roles in the movies, particularly in his newest film, Heart and Souls. Covering as many topics as he does, the author provides readers with little substance, and in many respects this volume appears to be a collection of items he left out of his earlier books. Only Grodin fans, and readers who can't get enough of showbiz minutiae, will find this account entertaining. First serial to Premiere magazine. (Oct.)