cover image JFK Jr., George, & Me

JFK Jr., George, & Me

Matt Berman. S&S/Gallery, $26 (240p) ISBN 978-1-4516-9701-8

Berman shares stories from his tenure as creative director of George magazine, including his encounters with a host of celebrities and his experience working as J.F.K. Jr.'s second in command. The author's humor and self-deprecation make for a lot of fun moments as he takes readers behind the scenes of many photo shoots, dishing on celebrity behavior such as Barbara Walters's playful flirtation with a notoriously disagreeable photographer. In addition, Berman details the creative process leading up to the launch of George with the iconic cover featuring Cindy Crawford dressed as George Washington. Most noteworthy though is Berman's insight into the character and work ethic of his late boss, J.F.K. Jr., who he describes as an elder brother figure. Berman's admiration for his friend and coworker is evident throughout the book. He is portrayed as a talented, sincere, and charismatic guy who was known to poke fun at those he loved and could win over a room with his impromptu Fonzie impression. It is Berman's palpable grief and musings on wasted potential at the loss of his friend that make this more than a celebrity-tell all. (Mar.)