Description
Book Synopsis: Dr. Mickey Smith, Barnard Distinguished Professor Emeritus at the University of Mississippi, is the author of a new book, “How Fibber McGee and Molly Won World War II.” This entertaining essay combines serious subjects and comedy in chronicling a very special period in the broadcast life of one of Radio’s most popular and best-loved series. In the book Smith describes how the special combination of the stars themselves, a writing genius, and the “perfect” sponsor, produced a one-of-a-kind program melding laughs and patriotism during one of America’s darkest hours. Jim and Marian Jordan somehow hooked up with the writing genius of Don Quinn, and the unparalleled support of the S.C. Johnson(Wax) Company to produce an entertaining, funny series of programs with an unwavering message—America was in the right, the men (and women) in the military deserved unflagging support, and the folks at home had a vital role to play, assuring the ultimate victory. The story is told via excerpts from scores of broadcasts enhanced by the author’s observations. An account of the difficult, but ultimately successful, efforts of the Government and of the broadcast industry to adapt to Wartime conditions provides an illuminating backdrop to the story. Fifteen photographs illuminate the book. The McGee’s messages, while always supportive of the War effort, were sometimes poignant. An example is Molly’s post-War reminder in support of the National War Fund, an agency devoted to providing recreational care and maintenance of morale for the military until they returned home: “We gave our boys a warm hand when they left. Let’s not give them the cold shoulder now.” Fibber McGee and Molly highlighted subjects not usually given a lot of attention such as the Coast Guard, Merchant Marine, “WACS”, Inflation, and Aid to European War Victims.
Details
Discover the untold story of how Fibber McGee and Molly won World War II with Dr. Mickey Smith's groundbreaking book. Combining serious subjects with comedy, this captivating essay takes you on a journey through one of radio's most beloved series during a crucial period in history. Dive into the fascinating narrative that reveals how the perfect blend of talented stars, a writing genius, and unwavering sponsorship created a one-of-a-kind program that merged laughter with patriotism when America needed it the most.
Jim and Marian Jordan, the beloved stars of Fibber McGee and Molly, joined forces with the brilliant mind of Don Quinn and the unprecedented support of S.C. Johnson (Wax) Company. Together, they produced a series of entertaining and funny broadcasts, delivering a resolute message that America was in the right. This remarkable program served as a constant source of support for the men and women in the military while empowering those on the home front to actively contribute towards the ultimate victory.
Immerse yourself in this captivating journey through excerpts from numerous broadcasts enriched by the author's keen observations. Gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by both the government and the broadcast industry as they adapted to the wartime conditions, providing an enlightening backdrop for the story. Additionally, fifteen thought-provoking photographs breathe life into the pages, offering a visual connection to the era.
While Fibber McGee and Molly's messages always upheld the war effort, they also touched hearts with poignant reminders, such as Molly's post-war plea in support of the National War Fund. This organization dedicated itself to providing recreational care and ensuring the morale of the brave servicemen until their joyful return home. As Molly once said, "We gave our boys a warm hand when they left. Let's not give them the cold shoulder now."
Fibber McGee and Molly were more than just a comedic duo; they fearlessly explored important subjects often overlooked, such as the Coast Guard, Merchant Marine, "WACS," inflation, and aid to European war victims. Take an enlightening dive into history with Dr. Mickey Smith's riveting book, "How Fibber McGee and Molly Won World War II," and uncover the impact this remarkable series had on America during its darkest hour. Don't miss your chance to relive this incredible journey.
Get your copy of "How Fibber McGee and Molly Won World War II" now.
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