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Book Review: “Lido Isle–An Illustrated History” by Lenard Davis

By C. MacDonald

Any book with a legendary Bea Riley sensational, elegant watercolor on the cover, must be fantastic and “Lido Isle–An Illustrated History” is just that. It’s a beautiful, fascinating hardcover epic with an amazing array of interesting historic (as well as more recent) photos documenting the people, places and lore that made (and make) Lido Isle (Newport Beach) such a special place to live.

“Surrounded by water and accessible only by one bridge, it’s physically and culturally, a world unto itself,” writes Lenard Davis, a retired history teacher, who grew up–and still owns a home–there. With the picture he paints through his well-researched words and illustrations, you’ll understand why this magical neighborhood was home to entertainment icons such as Joey Bishop, Johnny Mercer, Natalie Wood, Shirley Temple, Joan Crawford, Jane Wyman, Dick Powell, June Allyson, Rock Hudson, Edgar and Candice Bergen (their pal Charlie McCarthy) and so many more. Even John Wayne…read more>