<DIV>Neil Diamond, writer and singer of some of the most memorable songs in history, is the focus of this biography that looks beyond his glittering legend. Readers learn of his intriguing blend of contradictions—a charismatic and engaging live performer, he was deeply introspective offstage and prone to bouts of crippling self-doubt. From his childhood struggle to get out of Brooklyn through five decades of global stardom, this book marries his personal history with his public persona.<br></div>