“Icon: The Life, Times, and Films of Marilyn Monroe" (vol. 1 & 2) by Gary Vitacco-Robles

 “Icon: The Life, Times, and Films of Marilyn Monroe Volume” (vol. 1 & 2) by Gary Vitacco-Robles is, as the title explains, much more than Monroe’s biography. It is a very detailed chronicle of not only the actress’ private and professional life, but also of the times in which she used to live. It may seem that everything about Monroe’s life has been written, but Robles proves that there are still many issues in actress’ life and career to research on. The author debunks in his second volume, among other things, myths and conspiracy theories concerning Monroe’s death.

Both volumes are brilliant—immensely readable, superbly-written and well-researched. The biggest advantage of these books is their thoroughness—Robles’ riveting volumes come up with the facts, pure and simple; each of sentences and each of statements are proved and stick to the facts. The author deliberately avoids any sensationalism in order to provide the absolute truth about Monroe’s life. It should be emphasized that Robles’ biography is the most comprehensive one ever written— with 781 pages of the first and with 892 pages of the second volume (hardback edition). Robles provides a very detailed information not only on each film and each year of Marilyn’s life, but also details about  her make-up, clothes and pieces of jewelry. With his work, the author honors Monroe not only as a goddess, legend and icon, but—first of all –as a human being. Robles has given her the treatment she deserves. The actress is reborn in a fair and gorgeous way.

About the motives for writing his volumes, Robles explained to me: “I wrote it with the intent not only to honor Marilyn and to educate readers about the impact of abuse and mental illness, but also for those who both admire and feel empathy for her.” What strikes the reader is the author’s incredible empathy for Marilyn.