REVIEW: My Days: Happy and Otherwise

My Days: Happy and Otherwise
Author: Marion Ross

I grew up in a very strict Catholic household in the 70s & 80s. Many great shows were on television then, but I was restricted from watching most of the ones that my classmates at school watched. But, as kids will do, I had a way around this. My best friend lived next door...and when good shows were on, I would suddenly have to go study for a test, or whatever excuse I could come up with, go across the street and watch television with them. Through the years I happily sat on my neighbor's living room rug watching One Day At a Time, Alice. Laverne & Shirley. Dukes of Hazard. Welcome Back Kotter. And...one of my favorites....Happy Days. I really enjoyed the nerdy Ralph Malph, good ol Richie Cunningham, Snarky little sister Joanie, the lovable Potsie Weber, and of course...The Fonz. We all went around saying "Ayyyyy'' with our thumbs up and saying "Sit on it!'' And my parents always thought I was getting help with math. :)

When I think of Marion Ross, I will always think of Mrs. C., the lovable mom from Happy Days. I wanted to know more about the actress though, so I read her new book. I'm glad I did! Turns out Marion Ross (as with all actors) is so much more than her iconic character Mrs. C. From her roles on Broadway, film and television, to her personal life, her story is so interesting and enjoyable! Reading her book was like sitting down to lunch with her and just listening to her talk. I enjoyed every word!

Marion shares stories about her childhood, early career, her "big break,'' her castmates, children.....it's just a nicely well rounded book about her life. Her co-author is David Laurell. The book is well-written and just shines with Ross' lovely, down-to-earth personality.

I'm definitely going to purchase a copy of this book for my husband, who is a huge Happy Days fan. Anyone who grew up in the 70s, or who loves the show, will enjoy learning more about Marion Ross. Her stories about the show, her castmates,and her life are wonderful! After I finished the book, I went online and found the Love, American Style episode that introduced the Cunningham family.

Great show! Great book! And, a great actress and person!

**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Kensington Books via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**