The BOOK of JOAN by Melissa Rivers-A Daughter's Swan Song for Mom

It's been more than 2 years since the tragic & untimely death of Joan Ribers which robbed us of a fearless & funny entertainer & mother unlike any other.  Time flies with laughter and Joan's energy & audacity made time ripple in her quake.  I was delighted reading about the close bond between mother & daughter although contentious, was smothered in unconditional love.  The defining moments & devastating setbacks are well known as was her relentless tenacity, drive & courage to overcome all obstacles.  What makes this memoir by he daughter so warm & touching is that it is told by the only one who knew her as mom & loved her most.  Like a good comedy routine, some jokes hits, some missed & some senarios pushed the border line.  For me, the most off-putting thing was the ediotr who prewssed her card in Melissa's hand at the funeral.  (Of course, had she not, we may may not have this insightful, stirring perspective of someone whose life touched so many.)  Melissa's upbringing was unconventional providing fodder for hilarity and aspersions.  What struck home were the anecdotes all children agonize over with one's own parents.  "She instinctively knew what buttons to push - she installed."  Joan's view of being a celebrity, "No downside fo fame - it's all great."  Mom's mantra, "If you really want something, you'd better be prepared to work hard for it."  I recommend thi candid, loving tribute to a maverick & a great dame.  I especially admire Joan's modus operandi to life, "Say yes to everything."