James Dean: From Passion for Speed to Immortality - Tapa dura

James Dean. From Passion for Speed to Immortality focuses on the iconic actor's aspirations to be a world class racing driver. Nearly thirty biographies of him been written, but none has investigated his passion for car racing, how much it was an integral part of his life, and how it affected him in so many important ways. This book reprises the basic facts of James Dean's life, illustrated with superb photographs of the celebrities he acted and mingled with, but also documents his obsession with racing and speed. It describes the three official races he entered and his dreams about becoming a world class champion. Unique facts, quotes and photographs are presented here for the first time. So are the exacting details about his fatal accident, illustrated with 'frame-by-frame' diagrams, which prove beyond doubt that he was not responsible for the crash. Fifty years after James Dean died, he is still famous worldwide. This book is a tribute to his talent, both as an actor and racecar driver.

Philippe Defechereux is a former automobile advertising executive, consultant and author of car racing books. Watkins Glen 1948-1952. The Definitive Illustrated History published in 1998, received rave reviews and has been listed as one of the Top Ten 'Best Historical Racing Books'. Originally from Belgium, Defechereux has lived and worked in the United States since 1969.