Jane Fonda is a woman of contradictions. She has inspired both passionate hatred and deep admiration, undergone startling transformations from unhappy tomboy to international sex symbol; developed from being a political activist decried by many as a "traitor" to become one of the most respected women in America. This new biography reveals a highly complex woman, and with fresh insights examines the roots of the contradictions. Actress, activist and businesswoman - and now recently separated from her husband of sixteen years - Jane Fonda has never been afraid to change. Bill Davidson has talked to family and friends, to those who have played a part and those who have been left behind along the way. With new understanding he builds a portrait of the woman described by Robert Redford as "a phoenix who keeps rising from the ashes".