Popular music would not be the same today without the legendary songwriter and composer, Irving Berlin. His death in 1989 at 101 ended an era in American music that influenced generations of musicians. His story is a rich one, from his humble origins in Russia to his meagre existence on Cherry Street in Lower Manhattan and then his spectacular rise to fame and wealth. Barrett puts her father's life and work into perspective and reveals the truth behind certain darker and more mysterious elements of the Berlin legend. This biography introduces the reader into a world of songs, top hats, love affairs, adversity overcome, and a parade of the most glamorous, accomplished and beautiful people of their time.