QUEEN BESS, the story of Bess Myerson, crowned Miss America in 1945 is thoroughly enjoyable., After two decades as a television personality, Myerson took on corporate America, applying her celebrity as a consumer advocate. She became very influential in NY politics and helped get Ed Koch elected mayor. Her personal behind the scenes story is compelling. She has unhappy marriages and became embroiled in a political scandal soon dubbed the “Bess Mess.”

Such a fun book. I knew next to nothing about Bess Meyerson but Jennifer Preston does a great job of showing Meyerson's life, the good, bad and ugly. There's a respectful tone and admiration for the woman, while capably balancing her flaws.