The Astaires, Fred and Adele. Kathleen Riley. Oxford University Press.

The book’s title reminds us that before ‘Fred’ there was ‘Fred and Adele Astaire’.  Indeed it was Adele who introduced her brother to dancing.  However this is neither an expose nor a sentimental biopic, rather its use of references and sources, presented in non sensational language gives the biography the air of an academic text.