There She Is: The Life and Times of Miss America

Frank Deford's "There She Is: The Life and Times of Miss America" stands as a quintessential Deford work, deserving a place amongst his best for its sharp wit, incisive social commentary, and masterful storytelling. More than just a history of the pageant, the book meticulously dissects the cultural phenomenon that Miss America represented in the mid-20th century. Deford expertly weaves together anecdotes, interviews, and historical context to paint a vivid portrait of a tradition that, while seemingly frivolous, held a surprisingly powerful grip on the American imagination. He explores the complex interplay of beauty, ambition, sexism, and societal expectations, revealing a nuanced and often uncomfortable truth about the values America projected onto its chosen queens. What elevates "There She Is" to the pantheon of Deford's greatest works is his signature blend of skepticism and empathy. He doesn't simply dismiss the pageant as a relic of a bygone era. Instead, he attempts to understand its allure, its impact on the women who participated, and its significance as a reflection of broader cultural trends. The book is filled with Deford's characteristic sardonic humor and keen observations, but also a genuine curiosity and a willingness to see the humanity behind the sequins and smiles. It's a testament to his ability to transform a seemingly narrow topic into a compelling and insightful examination of American identity.