My Life with Groucho

The life of comedy legend Groucho Marx (1890-1977) is detailed in this flawed but sensitive biography. Material from the author's 1954 biography, Groucho , is incorporated; editing out the present-tense references to Groucho and his brothers--through much of the book it sounds as if they are still alive--would have eliminated some confusion. The last 50 or so pages, exhaustively describing the battle over conservatorship of the ailing star's estate, include an overzealous thrashing of Erin Fleming, Groucho's companion during his last seven years, whom the author describes as a gold digger who tried to alienate Groucho from his family and friends to gain control of his finances. Groucho is portrayed as an eccentric and inconsistent father who was at turns generous and tightfisted, loving and aloof. Abundant Groucho-esque quotes and anecdotes about Groucho's close but volatile relationship with his brothers provide insight into a complex personality. Photos. (Feb.)