It was 30 years ago today---September 14, 1982---that a bit of beauty, elegance, and grace departed this world, with the tragic passing of Grace Kelly. This lovely lady, who was taken from us much too soon, is one of my top 10 favorite actresses; it is in memory and honor of her that I am re-reading this very delightful, 4-star book---A Touch of Grace...How to Be a Princess the Grace Kelly Way, by Cindy De La Hoz. (published 2010)
This is not a biography, though it does share little snippets about Grace's life and career. Rather, it's a compilation of thoughts and stories about living a Grace-filled life. As the author states on the dust jacket, "with rare and never-before-seen photos, anecdotes, quotes, and other biographical commentary, this collection will show any woman how to cultivate her own style, charm, and noble flair."
It contains quotes like this: "When you look at Grace, she reminds you of a cool breeze of fresh air." (Bing Crosby)
Here is the back of the book, which features this quote by Jimmy Stewart: "Grace brought into my life...a soft, warm, light every time I saw her, and every time I saw her was a holiday of its own." (What a lovely thing to have said about oneself!)
There are life lessons from Princess Grace's life, such as: Remember birthdays, keep in touch, be hospitable, have a hobby, connect with people, leave behind warm memories. For all those lessons (and dozens more), the book provides little stories showing how this beautiful, elegant, and gracious lady exemplified them in her life.And, of course, the book is loaded with gorgeous photos...from Grace's childhood, her Hollywood career, her storybook wedding to a real life prince, and her life as Her Serene Highness of Monaco.
The fact that a book like this was written nearly thirty years after Grace Kelly's death and over fifty years after the end of her Hollywood career really speaks to the fact that she continues to be quite the epitome of grace, style, class, and elegance. I adore this woman and have seen all of her films; my favorite is Dial "M" for Murder, with The Country Girl (her Academy Award-winning role) not far behind.
Anyhow, while not a deep read, A Touch of Grace is a delightful, gracious, and all-together lovely way to remember the beautiful Princess Grace on the 30th anniversary of her death.