City of Belmont - Ruth Faulkner Public Library

The little girl who fought the Great Depression, Shirley Temple and 1930s America, John F. Kasson

Includes bibliographical references and index

The little girl who fought the Great Depression

John F. Kasson

Shirley Temple and 1930s America

How the smile and fortitude of a child actress revived a nation. Her image appeared in periodicals and advertisements roughly twenty times daily; she rivaled FDR and Edward VIII as the most photographed person in the world. For four consecutive years she was the world's box-office champion. Amid the deprivation and despair of the Great Depression, Shirley Temple radiated a spirit of optimism and plucky good cheer that lifted the spirits of millions and shaped their collective character for generations to come. Distinguished cultural historian John F. Kasson shows how, as the most famous, adored, imitated, and commodified child in the world, Shirley Temple astonished movie veterans, created a new international culture of celebrity, and revolutionized the role of children as consumers. Celebrating the prospect of lifting the Depression, tap-dancing across racial boundaries with Bill 'Bojangles' Robinson, foiling villains, and mending the hearts and troubles of the deserving, she personified the hopes and dreams of Americans while working virtually every day of her childhood

1.Smile Like Roosevelt -- 2.Such a Happy Little Face! -- 3.Dancing Along the Colour Line -- 4.The Most Adored Child in the World -- 5.Keeping Shirley's Star Aloft -- 6.What's a Private Life?