"Ella Fitzgerald was "a private soul, protective of... her life," writes Stone in... strong biography in the Up Close series. Unlike many books that perpetuate... Fitzgerald's own myths about her life... smooth, straightforward narrative draws from authoritative sources and reveals a "workhorse"... who devoted herself to developing and sharing her gift with the world. Personal details, particularly about Fitzgerald's youth, support each chapter, but... clear emphasis is on the singer's extraordinary career. The few black-and-white photos are of average quality, but... abundant quotes from Fitzgerald and her musician peers greatly develop the narrative. The author has studied voice, and her brief asides about music... are illuminating, while references to the racism Fitzgerald encountered... deepen the profile. Source notes for direct quotes and an extensive bibliography complete... inspiring portrait." - Booklist, Feb 1/08 (Batch 64) [jazz, scat singing].