Magic Gardens: The Memoirs of Viva Las Vegas, Paperback/Viva Las Vegas

A midwest preacher's daughter with a sophisticated academic pedigree, Viva could have pursued any career, but chose to become a stripper. This personalized tour of her milieu offers a unique perspective on a thriving industry that is largely condemned or ignored, while painting portraits of women who are passionate, smart, and entrepreneurial. With language that is by turns gritty and glorious, she preaches new paradigms regarding the sex industry and the women who work in it. Part coming-of-age story, part Portland, Oregon, love letter, Magic Gardens makes a valiant case for following one's dreams, whatever they may be.