**3-Star Review: *Cosby* by Mark Whitaker**

*Cosby* by Mark Whitaker is a comprehensive biography that chronicles the life and career of Bill Cosby, exploring his rise to fame as a groundbreaking comedian, actor, and cultural icon. Whitaker dives into Cosby's contributions to entertainment, particularly through *The Cosby Show*, which challenged racial stereotypes and brought African American families into mainstream television.

Whitaker's writing is well-researched and engaging, providing readers with a nuanced view of Cosby's life, from his early days in Philadelphia to his impact on the entertainment industry. The author captures both Cosby’s comedic genius and his complex persona, offering insights into his influences and the cultural context of his work.

However, the biography is inevitably affected by the fact that it was released before recent revelations and allegations surrounding Cosby's personal life, which cast a long shadow over his legacy.

Overall, *Cosby* serves as an informative account of a complicated figure in American culture, but it struggles to fully reconcile the dichotomy between Cosby’s public persona and the serious accusations against him. This makes for a challenging read, especially for those grappling with the implications of his actions on his contributions to the arts.