Phyllis Diller (1917–2012)

I thoroughly enjoyed Phyllis Diller's book, Like a Lampshade in a Whorehouse. It was an easy read, informative and clued you in on her life experiences from which her comedy was born.

Phyllis appeared on many TV shows and that my family watched. I loved her, and still do. I was saddened to learn in this book that she had been through so much pain, mentally and emotionally. I am thankful she put those experiences toward making her the comedienne that her fans loved.

I really enjoyed the first third of this book. It was very interesting to me how she evolved into herself (upbringing, school, parents, etc.)

The second third of the book dragged a bit - I think it was both because she name-dropped quite a lot (and I wasn't really sure to whom she was referring all the time - blame it on a generation gap) as well as her constant need to congratulate herself (if I read the phrase "I was hot" once I read it 30 times.)

The last section was a bit of a downer as show more well . . . I don't want to be a spoiler, but let's just say that she was subject to quite a few rocky relationships and abuses in this book - all of which emotionally damaged her. However, her "show must go on" attitude I felt was extremist (she finally meets the love of her life, they spend wonderful time together, only to have him die - basically at the airport - and she gets on the plane to do a scheduled booking after he gets to the hospital, only to call 24 hrs later to find out he's dead . . . and doesn't cancel the rest of her trip . . . for the love of her life??) I don't know - it just left me wondering about all of the times she was out trying to make it in clubs at 2:30 in the morning - where were her kids? With her dysfunctional family? That part kind of bothered me and I think overshadowed some of the successes in the story.

In summary, I'm glad I read it - funny lady, interesting life, quick read - but it did leave me puzzled as to how she handled her interpersonal relationships. I guess I expected more from someone who had been through so much herself. show less

Not what I expected, more of a memoir then a book of comedy sketches. She starts with being born in Ohio and goes clear up to the 2000s. She tells of her overbearing husband who always has to have things his way. Also talks about her children some. Was an interesting read over all.

Always a funny woman, so sad she is gone. I have loved this book every time I've read it since 1966 when I became a housewife. Made me feel okay about my own so-so housekeeping with kids.