New Books for March 2013 - Biography

I will confess to feeling utterly overwhelmed. I knw there is nothing duller than someone complaining about all the things they have to do, but honestly, if I allow myself to stop and actually consider my schedule over the coming months I do get very nervous. Best thing to do is avoid it totally and immerse myself in some thoroughly diversionary reading. Here are some new biographies I have picked up that should help me with that:




Facing the Torturer by Francois Bizot - I read Bizot's completely brilliant memoir of his experiences under the Khmer Rouge, The Gate, many years ago, and it still remains one of my favourite books. This is his new book, an exploration of his relationship with Comrade Duch, the man responsible for murdering and torturing thousands of people in Cambodia.



Jean Cocteau and the French Scene by Various Authors - A collection of essays and articles looking at the enormous influence of auteur Jean Cocteau on French and international culture. It's no secret I adore Cocteau, and I look forward to learning more about him in this fascinating-looking book.



Not Quite Nirvana by Rachel Neumann - Thich Nhat Hanh's publisher becomes a Buddhist after reading him for years. This sounds like great fun, and what an intriguing premise for a book. Will also get me into the mood for going to see Thich Nhat Hanh in Hong Kong in May.




Max Factor by Fred E. Basten - I have always been intrigued by the great beauty moguls: Elizabeth Arden, Helena Rubinstein, Max Factor etc. They are household names and yet so little was ever said about them. 



Andy Warhol by Tony Scherman and David Dalton - I must have read half a dozen Warhol biographies, but I am always keen to read another one. I want to be him, so I am looking for tips.

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