This biography of Marilyn Monroe describes how her difficult childhood & her family history of depression may have affected her psychological state, & led to her suicide. Marilyn attempted suicide at lease twice, & abused alcohol & drugs often. The author asserts that Marilyn may have had an affective disorder, probably due to both developmental & genetic factors. He also cocludes that her childhood experiences gave her a fear of abandonment, & a need for approval. (VM)