Going Strong

This rich photo collection of some 75 personalities over age 75 exudes the verve that this august body represents. The visual vitality of the photography is reflected in poses and accents suggestive of life lived to the fullest. The brief first-person narratives are simple, straightforward and as endearing as the pictures. A decidedly British influence is in evidence in the selection of interview subjects, who range from stately Brooke Astor to George Burns, Barbara Cartland and Alistair Cooke to scruffy British scrap dealer ``Rabbit'' Close. No Ponce de Leon remedies are proferred, yet a consensus for longevity emerges. While many denounce smoking, some subjects are portrayed in the act; similarly the jury is out on alcohol. A veritable pharmacopoeia of encouragement, the common denominators driving these over 75ers are hard work, a lust for life, endless curiosity and open and honest relationships (though gay ones are obscured here). The book will inspire respect for the growing population of the elderly. York is a freelance photographer whose work has appeared in Vogue , Newsweek , People , etc. 50,000 first printing. (Oct.)