LIFE OF THE PARTY: THE MEMOIRS OF EDDIE GOODMAN. Goodman, Eddie. Toronto, Key Porter Books. 1988. 313pp. doth. $26.95. ISBN 1-55013-104-4. CIP Grades 10 and up/Ages 15 and up Reviewed by Thomas F. Chambers Volume 17 Number 3 1989 May Eddie Goodman is one of the few Canadians who dedicate much of their energy to politics. He is an example of a "backroom boy" who works tirelessly behind the scenes for the success of a political party. It is because of the efforts of people like Goodman that parties win elections. Such people are therefore an essential part of our political process. They are also, because of the sometimes questionable tactics they use, often criticized for being manipulative and deceitful. The party in this case is the Progressive Conservative Party. Eddie Goodman has been Involved in a major way in most of the federal elections since the end of World War II. He also became a part of Ontario's fabled "Big Blue Machine" during the years of the Davis governments. It was at this time that he earned the nickname "fast Eddie." He represents everything that is both good and bad in politics. Eddie Goodman has lived an interesting life. During his career he has been involved in numerous endeavours, such as the founding of the CTV television network and Toronto Sun newspaper, the creation of the National Ballet of Canada and fund raising for the Royal Ontario Museum. In everything he did, he applied himself with determination. His memoirs give an insider's look at the often mysterious world of politics. Thomas F. Chambers, Canadore College of Applied Arts and Technology, North Bay, Ont.