Book Description

When the most famous, successful and talented pop singer of all time makes a comeback, the world sits up and listens, the press takes notes and the fans go shopping. And so it is with Michael Jackson, out of the limelight for five years, yet with his new album just released, its as if he's never been away. Yes, 'The King Of Pop' has returned in triumphant style topping charts worldwide, breaking records and receiving rewards. Michael Jackson: An exceptional journey, brings the story up to date, using equal parts newly researched text and both classic and rarely seen full color photography, this book will appeal in every way to his millions of fans new and old. With only two other books currently available on this mega star (and both of these seriously outdated) this brand new visual documentary could not come at a better time. ... Read more

Book Description

Chastity Bono has faced her share of battles as a spokesperson for gay and lesbian rights, both as the controversial former entertainment and media director for GLAAD--after she came out in The Advocate in 1995--and before that in the early '90s when a national tabloid maliciously outed her. In this riveting memoir she recounts a story of love, commitment, and tragedy lived out beyond the glare of the cameras. At 23, Chastity was well on her way to establishing her own life separate from her superstar parents, Cher and Sonny Bono. Geffen Records had just signed her band, Ceremony, and she was poised for musical stardom. And best of all, a love affair began to blossom with Joan Stephens, one of Cher's friends whom Chastity had known all her life. In what began as an unlikely relationship, Chastity and Joan found and nurtured the sort of tender, loving partnership they had both been seeking. But Chastity's aspirations for a life in music were soon thwarted by internal struggles and record company machinations that threatened to destroy Ceremony. These problems, however, paled in comparison with the devastating news of Joan's diagnosis with life-threatening non-Hodgkins lymphoma. As Joan fiercely battled her illness, Chastity's musical career imploded. Chastity became both caretaker and lover, discovering a depth and beauty that intensified the feeling of loss as Joan succumbed to the ravages of cancer. A story of love won and lost, of dreams fulfilled and destroyed, The End of Innocence is a coming-of-age story that provides a deeply personal look into the private struggles of a very public and courageous woman. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

It's her life...
No better way to find out who Chastity Bono is than to read her story in her own words, written in her own way. It's not sugar coated and painted as a pretty picture. It doesn't focus on her Mother, and her life wasn't a fairy tail sort of life. Hers was a life full of struggles. A major one her relationship with Joan. Anyone else ever take care of someone with a terminal ilness? All when she was very young. The cancer patient gets the Morphine to dull their pain, and the shot to help them sleep, but their friend in the cot next to them gets nothing to dull their pain and fears, and nothing to help them through their many sleepless nights. At home, they give the shots and clean the bed sheets. The sad part is many do not get so much as a thank you, and the patient gets the flowers. That is not meant to take away from the patients suffering. But, what her book brings out is the fact that many times the care takers and loved ones are suffering because it is a hard and emotionally draining job, and for them there is no relief.

How else to give you a sense of who she was, other than to tell exactly what she was going through and how she felt, and ultimatly how she dealt with it all. It is not a feel good book. It's just an honest story and a quick read.

check your expectations at the door
I think the only thing that could ruin this book is wrong expectations. I came into it thinking "Ooh a book by Cher's daughter! Cher is God so I should read it!" and when I found out it was about her lover Joan's battle with cancer I was like, "Aw, sad! This is gonna be depressing!"

neither expectation proved true!

By the end of the book I not only did I have a deep respect for Chastity Bono as her own person, not just Cher's daughter, but I was deeply inspired by the story and life of Joan! The book is really a very inspiring tale of love and life and everday, universal struggles (despite the fact its mainly about fame, the music industry, battles with cancer, and the struggles of lesbians). Its really a very triumphant book whose only fault is the fact that it was written by someone so young so the ending comes all too soon. I hope for a sequel!

Left much to be desired
I thought by reading this book, I could learn something from the journey Chastity has taken thru life. However, not much to learn here. Although I admire her love for Joan, there wasn't much to take away except the sense that I may have wasted my time and money.

Boring.....
I was really excited about reading about Cher's sexcapades over the years, all the men, all the wild times, to get to know the real woman who is the diva we all know as Cher. Who better to tell it than her daughter? All the reviews here talked about Chastity's "honesty." What a bust! Chastity was honest all right, honest about her own boring life. Who cares! There was hardly any content on Cher at all. At least she could have tossed in some Greg Allman stuff, or a few tid-bits on Rob Camiletti a/k/a the Bagel Boy. No! Not a word! All it was was some boring tale about Chastity's life as a lesbian. Sorry, that holds no interest for me. If you don't have any interest in Cher, this book is for you. Otherwise, stay away!

Way Too Much Information
i was so depressed closing this book it was unreal. i found her honesty admirable, but i also found too subtle and not so subtle self pity in most of her narrative of situations....the book was or could be somewhat confusing, and overwhelming, with the doe si doe recital of the lesbian history starting from her grandmothers time. chastity bono was a young woman, yes, but talk about a stunted childhood, or slow on the uptake maturing....she constantly put one girls needs (manipulations) before her own and let it affect her relationship with her true love, and she was just unanchored, flailing, weak. also, the graphic descriptions of joans illness? please, way too much information. horrible. real, yes. reality, sure, but did we need to hear explicit descriptions of every tube, every failing orifice, to get the points? NO WAY. perhaps being a breast cancer survivor colored my reaction to her detailed account of joans physical deterioration, but i found it very sad she felt it had to be that graphic. honesty is honesty but c'mon, couldn't she let the love of her life keep ANY of her DIGNITY even in death? NO. i felt she wrote all this just to show what SHE suffered through with joans suffering of cancer... i sure won't buy her 3rd book about her drug use. and am glad i got this copy of "loss of.....
total empathetic descretion".... for less than original price. ... Read more

Book Description

The unauthorized biography of the mercurial diva and her public fall from grace. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Just when you think you know it all
Whitney Houston is rarely out of the tabloids, so it is tempting to think one knows all there is to know about her. Leave it to Mr. Parish to get beyond the headlines with a fascinating look at this major talent. It is a well-researched look at Whitney Houston, her family (esp mother Cissy) and an era of pop music in which she came of age. From the projects to mansions we follow every step of her rise to the top (including set-backs along the way). This is also a well-rounded look at her marriage to Bobby Brown, a marriage that has continued to defy predictions of doom. Whether a fan or not this is a highly readable book.

Just when you thought you knew it all
Whitney Houston is rarely out of the tabloids,so you may think you know all about her. Leave it to Mr. Parish to get beyond the headlines and give us a well-rounded look at this diva. This is not the just the story of Whitney Houston, but of her family, esp. mother Cissy and of the era of pop in which she came of age. From the projects to mansions, from ups and downs, it is a fascinating look at a great talent. It gives an in-depth look at her marriage to Bobby Brown, a marriage that continues to defy predictions of doom. Whether a fan or not this is a very enjoyable book.

Whitney Houston: the Biography By James Robert Parish
This was one I could not put down untill I finished it. Completely up to date, covers her life,rise to fame,and ends on trip to Israel. Mr. Parish has walked the tightrope of keeping his feelings out the book, but still gives warts and all. Has a couple of pictures I never saw before, and is very quick moving as books of this type go. Learned some new things about my favorite DIVA! ... Read more

Book Description

Fronted by rock's orginal warring brothers, Dave and Ray Davies, The Kinks were one of the most influential British bands of the '60's, scoring a series of top ten hits. This is the definitive biography of this controversial and seminal band. ... Read more

Book Description

At the top of her form and topping the charts, Rosemary Clooney looks back at a life of triumph and tragedy more dramatic than any work of fiction.

Rosemary Clooney made her first public appearance at the age of three, on the stage of the Russell Theater in her hometown of Maysville, Kentucky, singing, "When Your Hair Has Turned to Silver," an odd but perhaps prophetic choice for one so young. She has been singing ever since: on local radio; with Tony Pastor's orchestra; in big-box-office Hollywood films; at the Hollywood Bowl, the London Palladium, and Carnegie Hall ; on her own television series; and at venues large and small across the country and around the world. The list of Clooney's friends and intimates reads like a who's who of show business royalty: Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Marlene Dietrich, Tony Bennett, Janet Leigh, Humphrey Bogart, and Billie Holiday, to name just a few. She's known enormous professional triumphs and deep personal tragedies.

At the age of twenty-five, Clooney married the erudite and respected actor Jose Ferrer, sixteen years her senior and light-years more sophisticated. Trouble started almost immediately when, on her honeymoon, she discovered that he had already been unfaithful. Finally, after having five children while she almost single-handedly supported the entire family and endured Ferrer's numerous, unrepentant infidelities, she filed for divorce. From there her life spiraled downward into depression, addiction to various prescription drugs, and then, in 1968, a breakdown and hospitalization. After years spent fighting her way back to the top, Clooney is married to one of her first and long-lost loves- a true fairy tale with a happy ending. She's been nominated for four Grammys in six years and has two albums at the top of the Billboard charts. In the words of one of Stephen Sondheim's Follies showgirls, she could well be singing, triumphantly, "I'm still here!"
... Read more

Reviews (21)

Rosie Clooney Leaves Today's Divas In The Dust!
What a life this wonderful woman has led and what a great story to tell! As a lifelong fan I've collected several of her albums & have followed her career. Rosie tells it all, about growing up in Kentucky, starting a singing career with younger sister Betty & hitting the big time in New York. Years ago I had the pleasure of seeing her perform in a radio sponsored concert in the Winter Garden in the World Financial Center. She knows how to please the crowd, chatting them up with little anecdotes and doing several of her big hits(not just a medley of them either). Rosie Clooney is one of the most down to earth performers on earth and a major talent. Read this book and get the Girl Singer 2 cd set. Both are very highly recommended. Thanks Rosie, for bringing so much pleasure to so many people over the years.

Best of its kind
Anyone who has every heard Rosemary Clooney sings knows there is no one else quite like her. And so it would follow that her memoir would follow suit, and it most certainly does. I cried, I laughed, I loved this book more with every page I turned. Kudos to Barthel for bringing Rosie's voice to the page, and rendering poetry from such a soulful, remarkable life.

And she can write, too!
We lost a tremendous talent and treasure this past summer with the death of Rosemary Clooney. I am so glad that I read this book before her death, because I felt as if I got to know her. Ms. Clooney told her story, from her tulmultous childhood, to her heyday as a "girl singer" and recording star, and to her breakdown in the late 1960s. In the last 10 years, she was known more as George's aunt than her own talent. This book solidified for me that she was a great talent, and a very interesting person. Nothing is glossed over.

Sunday in the park with George's Aunt
Rosemary Clooney's life wasn't all a picnic in the Park. Her autobiography is straightforward - like herself, it is not grandiose, but it is no shrinking violet, either. While reading this book, I also got "Songs from the Girl Singer: a musical autobiography " a 2 CD set. Like Girranimals, the similarly titled companion pieces have the same picture on the front so that the purchaser will know that they go together. Buy 'em both, they won't disappoint!

Her life and music are all here - without gloss or pretension. And from her debut with sister Betty, with a local Cincinnati big band, to her meteoric rise to solo national celebrity for "Come On-a My House," a song she never really liked, to sing with Bing in "White Christmas," to the ascension of Rock & Roll (which, she said at the time "wiped out music as we know it,") to her resultant (?) breakdown and triumphant "comeback," to her introduction to a new TV viewing generation as the Coronet Paper Towel lady, to her appearance with nephew George Clooney on ER, Rosemary never learned to read music!

More pictures (including one of the Great Dane, Cuddles,) would have been nice, but the set is a treat. Get it! God Bless You, Rosemary. 5/23/28 - 6/30/2002

If You Read Nothing Else
I just finished Rosie's Girl Singer, an autobiography, and found it probably one of the best I have read. I have always been a fan of hers, but didn't realize what a super entertainer she was, given the load she was given to carry. If you haven't read it yet, don't miss it. ... Read more

Book Description

Few artists in the music world have achieved the awesome success of Elton John. From his self-titled debut album in 1970 to his Academy Award for “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” to his music for the hit Broadway musical Aida, he has been lauded both for his recordings and his extravagant live performances.

His Song is destined to become the definitive critical volume about this remarkable artist. More comprehensive and in-depth than other biographies, this authoritative reference reveals the full story behind all Elton’s recordings; offers a complete chronicle of the artist’s concert tours, including his 1979 tour of the Soviet Union and his 1994–1995 tour with fellow piano superstar Billy Joel; divulges how he grew from a meek, unassuming man into a personality powerhouse and major superstar; and uncovers the untold story behind his flamboyant costumes and why he wore them.

This enlightening biography also examines the ebb and flow of this outstanding artist's career. It discloses the real reason for Elton’s commercial downturn and his difficult business relationship with David Geffen; his “coming out,” first as a bisexual and finally as a gay man; his problems with drugs, alcohol, bulimia, and sexual addictions; his relationship with AIDS sufferer Ryan White; and much more. It also tells the true story regarding his performance at Princess Diana’s funeral and his rewriting of “Candle in the Wind,” which went on to become the biggest-selling single in music history. Plus, over 40 photographs and a complete discography chronicle the breadth of this legend’s celebrated career. ... Read more

Reviews (23)

An moderately entertaining research paper...
As an Elton John fan for the past 30 years, I can't fault Ms. Rosenthal's enthusiasm for her subject -- it's obvious she's followed the ups and downs of Sir Elton's life, and has a very good grasp on her subject, tantrums, tiaras, and all. However, I was hoping for more; some new and/or different information than has previously been distributed via all of the usual sources, including Elton himself. No such luck. The title is apt: this book ultimately reads like a well-researched and documented paper on the music of Elton John, with no new information regarding the man himself. My only true quarrel with this work would have to be the author's occasional tendency to editorialize and let her preferences and biases toward (or against) periods of his music or specific songs slip through. For those looking for details on the songs to the n-th degree, you won't be disappointed. But if you're looking for more than that, I would suggest you look elsewhere.

A Most Fascinating, Detailed Bio.
This book has been such a great help to me in understanding Elton John's music, and understanding the man. His incredible life is very well told. You can really 'feel' the particular times he was going through throughout his life. The songs and albums are so excellently detailed that you can almost hear the music coming from the pages. Ms. Rosenthal really knows her music and surely knows Elton's music to the 't'. Also you come to know what every song is about, where there may have been mysteries about some. I am also particularly interested in the different tours Elton has been on and I just love the way she writes about these tours. There is no other Elton John book like this. After over 30 years of some of the best pop/rock music ever created, someone FINALLY came along to do justice to this music and explain it in ways we have never heard before. This book is a MUST for all Elton John fans. Both hard core fans and borderline fans. Thank you Liz!!!

Simply THE best book about Elton yet
This book focuses on the music of Elton, unlike any other bio. It goes through an album song by song, and offers interesting interpretation and insight into each, unlike Norman's or other bio's that mention the two or three well known songs from each album. It was amazing the amount of info I learned in this book even though I've been a lifelong fan.

Terrific "musical biography"!
This is a marvelous book, especially noteworthy because the author pays as much attention to the music as to the musician. Although her writing style at times can get a bit florid, that's understandable given the fact that she has to describe literally hundreds of songs and performances, so she's always searching for new and creative descriptions. Sometimes it doesn't work, but usually it does. At any rate, this is a highly detailed, engrossing account of Elton John's life and music, and I always found that I had trouble putting it down. Better yet, I was always eager to get back to it! The author clearly loves her subject, "warts and all," which she doesn't shy away from. A very enjoyable and extremely informative book--a must for dedicated Elton John fans, and highly recommended even for more casual fans who simply want to learn more (a lot more) about one of the most successful artists in the history of popular music.

It's a true Winner!!!
I would like to start by saying,this book is a true winner!!!
Ms. Rosenthal really hit the nail on the head, describing Elton's music chapter by chapter. The book kept my interest and attention from start to finish. I really appreciated the author's wit in using some of Elton's song titles and lyrics as chapter titles. I think that adds a very special quality and warmth to the book. I found the photographs at the midway point and the end refreshing. I recommend anyone who is an Elton John fan to pick up this book before any other. I tip my hat to Ms. Rosenthal on a job well done. ... Read more

Book Description

MOBY:REPLAY - His Life and Times draws from exclusive and lengthy interviews conducted over the last seven years with Moby himself, as well as in-depth insights provided by those closest to him, including management, fellow band members, road crew and music writers. In this definitive look at Moby`s remarkable life, every aspect of his seminal career is covered at length, from his much reported Christian, vegan, non-drinking, non-drug-taking stance to his subsequent metamorphosis into the hard-drinking party animal he is today. Embracing skate punk to New York house, thrash metal to chilled ambience, soundtracks to down tempo blues, few artists have reflected the eclectic nature of our times quite like Moby. From the first rave hits to the multi-million selling album Play, Moby`s music soundtracks every walk of life. Replay - His Life and Times is the first and only vision of his compelling climb to the top of the music charts and offers the inside take on the enigma behind that success ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Replay Offers Unplugged Look at Famous Raver
(As previously printed in Mean Street Magazine)

In Martin James' "Replay," Moby aptly describes himself as the little man behind the curtain in the Wizard of Oz. He plays, mixes, samples; the audience jumps, dances, sweats. All this ecstasy-permeated excitement is created by one unlikely man: small, somber, and sober.
In "Replay," James draws from seven years of interviews with Moby to offer a look behind the curtain at the world's most famous raver. The book succeeds on several levels.
For those of us relatively new to the Moby phenomenon, "Replay" breaks it down from the beginning, starting with the birth of Richard Melville Hall in Harlem in 1965. The book offers definitive proof that this slight, bald-headed mass of genius and contradictions did not drop to the Earth from space.
For DJs and techies, Replay offers a chronicle of dance music from the '70s to the present, plus practical insight into the equipment Moby uses to create his huge sound (Cubase software).
Like any good bio, "Replay" offers scandal too. We learn that Moby's first musical purchase as a kid was the 7-inch single of Convoy, which he listened to in a continuous loop. We also learn that the once monk-like vegan, Christian and teetotaler has learned to not only rock the party but party himself, now indulging in champagne and a modicum of sexual adventures.
And for anyone who is awed by the power of Moby's music, the book offers a glimpse into his musical influences and development. The book also includes one hell of a discography.
It is James' reverence for music that represents "Replay's" greatest weakness as well as strength. He literally takes the reader to school in the first few chapters of the book with references to countless musical influences (Brian Eno, Gary Numan, Kraftwerk, Joy Division, Throbbing Gristle, Psychic TV are among the less obscure). As the book charts the development of dance music in all its guises-disco, electro-funk, hip-hop, house, acid house, ambient- and all of its geographical permutations, the reader begins to feel they have unwittingly enrolled in Techno 101.
What keeps the reader turning the pages? Among other things, the words of Moby himself.
You earn something important in "Replay," if you haven't discovered it already: Moby was born to create dance music and according to Moby, we were all born to enjoy it:
"When you're born the first sound you hear is a screaming woman, unless your mother was anaesthetized. So your most primal sounds are, first of all the heartbeat, which is like the kick drum, and then a screaming woman. So we've all been listening to techno ever since we were born." ... Read more

Amazon.com

Who would've thought that Eddie Fisher, cheesy pop singer, pipsqueak Mouseketeer to the Rat Pack, speed freak and coke fool, AWOL daddy, discarded Liz Taylor boy toy, and husband from hell, could pen a memoir as entertaining as his talented daughter Carrie's? Granted, he has the help of autobiographer to the stars David Fisher (no relation), but still, it's startling how sleekly readable Fisher's misadventures are, and shocking that he comes off with raffish charm and a sense of humor.

Don't worry, there's not too much about Eddie's dull, madly successful singing career--he wasn't that interested in it either. He preferred women. Warning: as is the case with Robert Evans's comparably entertaining sex-and-drugs tell-all, The Kid Stays in the Picture, we can't know whether it's all true. Some of Eddie's alleged women have denied dalliance. Did he really get naked with Joan Collins ("the British Open") in Dean Martin's pool, screaming along with Dino and Brando until the cops came? Did he share Sue Lyon with Richard Burton and Judy Campbell with Sinatra, JFK, and Sam Giancana? (Eddie doubts Campbell's story that she passed documents from JFK to mobster Sam.) Did Jackie turn JFK onto amphetamine fiend Max Jacobson, the famed "Dr. Feelgood" who destroyed his own life and 30 years of Eddie's? Were Bob Hope's military-base shows really "sex tours"? His bitterness makes one doubt he gives first wife Debbie Reynolds ("the Iron Butterfly") a fair shake. Did Liz Taylor drive away, naked and hysterical, in her Cadillac when Eddie suggested she see a psychiatrist? Did Burton beat her, and did she try to steal My Fair Lady from her friend Audrey Hepburn? In a Munich suite once used by Mussolini to entertain Hitler, did Liz bite Eddie as he dug pills out of her mouth to save her life? Did Liz bed Rock Hudson and Montgomery Clift? Read Fisher and see what you believe. --Tim Appelo ... Read more

Reviews (44)

One interesting and troubled man
This is one of the hardest reviews I've written because I honestly wasn't sure when I finished this book if half of what I had just read was true or said merely for revenge. While the story of Eddie Fisher's career is interesting there is so much malicious gossip that it detracts from the basic story.
Starting as a talented child and then through a very up and down career Mr. Fisher never had any doubts about his abilities professionally. Through his version of his marriages to Debbie Reynolds, Elizabeth Taylor, Connie Stevens and so forth we get all the dirt that we ever wanted to hear and then some. While I like a good "Hollywood" biography as much as the next person I've never read one that gave me so many details on people that I really didn't WANT to hear. Sometimes petty, sometimes shocking and frequently doubtful there's a lot of stuff in this book that really could and should have been left unsaid. A strong proponent of freedom of speech I also believe that much of what Mr. Fisher had to say was simply unkind and people who have since died like Montgomery Clift and Roddy McDowell are no longer able to defend themselves and to deny what is printed about themselves.

Although he never had any doubts about his singing ability Mr. Fisher is also quite self-effacing about his shortcomings as a husband, father and speaks openly about his addictions. What is probably the best aspect of the book is when the reader realizes how much Eddie Fisher has learned along his journey.

I wish him peace but I wish he didn't have to be so just plain mean in this version of his life.

Sleazy, Slimy and Degrading
This guy is such a joke. It's no fun to read about a has-been dishing dirt when you aren't even sure what details are true and which aren't. Plus he's so incredibly self-involved and egotistical - his head is so swollen that it would be impossible to measure its circumference. Carrie Fisher, by her own admission, has refused to speak to Eddie since the publication of this book, and I can't say as I blame her. I don't consider him to be all that self-effacing. Even when he tries, it comes out as whiny and defensive. The only way that this book ever could be considered as a good, interesting read is to go through and try to imagine how someone this conceited ever made it as huge as he claims to have done. Rubbish.

Disgusting and petty
Fisher is a class A jerk. Don't spend even a penny on this book, unless you just particularly enjoy sordid and vindictive, self-glorifying and absurd "versions" of truth. I get the impression that Fisher was jealous of a great many of the people he smears in this book, and that he didn't have enough sense or decency to keep his mouth shut. He hurt himself more than anyone else by writing this book, and I don't see how anyose, especially his ex-wives or children could ever have ANY respect for him again---if they ever had.

EDDIE AT LEAST TRIED TO BE HONEST ABOUT HIMSELF!
I read Mr. Fishers book TWICE I loved it. While i certainly concede he is no great star at least give him credit. He is honest about he's drug addiction and his not so great role as a father. i dont understand Liz Taylor's displeasure in the book.
He writes about her in glowing terms. Of course, I could see why
Debbie Reynolds would not like it. THAT part is understandable.
But at least, Eddie took the blame for most of his mistakes unlike other books who try to shift the blame. I recently bought a CD of him at the Winter Garden. He WAS NOT BAD AT ALL>
And years ago I saw Debbie in a show in Charlotte and she was great but at the end SHE DID DO WHAT EDDIE STATED IN HIS BOOK>
(SHE put her finger down her throat when she said "Fisher") If his daughter Carrie cared anything about her father she would not have liked that disrespect (he might have been an absentie father but, he was not an abusive one -like i had)
Anyway, I liked it and thought it was so readable.

Thanks Eddie

Sad tale...
I bought the book because of the story involving Elizabeth Taylor. If I were Eddie Fisher, I would not be so willing to share this sad tale with the world. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Must Have For True Janet Fans!
The book goes through Janet's whole life from childhood to her last record- All For You. It has great pictures and a lot of good information. Jane Cornwell also includes quotes by Janet. This book is a must have for all Janet Fanatics! ... Read more

Book Description

Muse to poets and screenwriters, Vargas lived the golden era of Mexico. In this autobiography, we find people like Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, Bette Davis and Elizabeth Taylor.

Description in Spanish:

La excepcional personalidad de Chavela Vargas, su particular modo de comprender el mundo y su indudable valor artístico la convierten en uno de los últimos mitos de la música popular. Musa de poetas y cineastas, Chavela vivió las décadas de oro de México, los años cuarenta y cincuenta. A su lado encontramos figuras como Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, Bette Davis o Elizabeth Taylor. Tras su personal "travesía del desierto", Chavela Vargas volvía a los escenarios en los años noventa, para recoger los frutos de una vida apurada hasta el límite.

Chavela Vargas traza aquí su biografía sentimental, deteniéndose en los personajes y los detalles que han marcado su trayectoria vital y profesional, en un relato cargado de ironía y sentido del humor: como en sus conciertos, la historia de su vida promete tanta alegría como dolor, y como en sus canciones, nos asegura una visión apasionada y desgarradora de su mundo interior. ... Read more

Book Description

The author traces the history of Wings and delves into the inner dynamics of the group, its commercial and artistic success, and its demise. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

The best history on McCartney (post beatles) around
This book hits on all aspects of wings. McGee covers areas that have had little or no coverage elsewhere including some of there less popular material. It also offers a complete discology, a complete list of every wings concert and set lists. The interviews are in depth and show Paul in a light that isn't always flattering. McGee is very honest and straight in his writing and has not smoothed over anything. This book shows how the band became so popular and also lets you see what led to the ultimate end. Very well written and very informative.

Must Read for McCartney Fans
Little did I know that when Garry and I attended a Wings concert in college that he was composing this book in his head. Excellant read, interesting, complete and full of fun information. If you love Paul, then you will love this book. Congrats, Garry on a great book. Can't wait for your next book to get published!

band on the run a history of paul mccartney and wings
if your a fan of wings and paul mccartney this is the one book you must have. garry has done his research well and has got the whole story behind the scenes. it tells the fans why wings was so successful and of all the problems withen the band. the book tells all the sides and has not sugar coated them. the book also contains many rare wings promo material, a complete discography and a interview with former guitarist henry mccullough.

Based on twenty years' worth of research and interviews
Band On The Run: A History Of Paul Mccartney And Wings by Garry McGee (who spend more than twenty years in collecting materials and interviews for this book) is the informative biography of the famous former Beatles member that concentrates exclusively on the music Paul McCartney made after he left the Beatles and strived to refine his music with a personally chosen group of studio musicians. Based on twenty years' worth of research and interviews, Band On The Run successfully strives to present an accurate portrait of Paul McCartney, the Wings band, and their musical contribution to popular culture in the twentieth century.

Best book on McCartney's post-Beatles career
Of all the books on Paul McCartney, this is the best one on his career, post-Beatles. Unlike most other bios, this one gets about as deep as it can in telling Wings' story.

I found this book very even-handed in its approach. No whitewashes or hatchet jobs. It even tells the stories of the recordings of some of McCartney's and Wings' lesser works, "Ram" and "Red Rose Speedway," two albums rarely discussed in other books.

The book offers a list of every Wings concert, as well as the set lists from their tours.

As of now, this is the best Wings bio out there, and is worthy of any McCartney fan's time. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Quirk and Schoell's rehashing of the biographical details of Frank Sinatra and the rest of his crew is only intermittently able to disguise its contempt for their personal and professional lives. If there's an opportunity for a pot shot, rest assured this book will take it, from the admittedly deserved (Cannonball Run II, anyone?)to the probably uncalled for (a charity performance for a halfway house for ex-convicts is dismissed with snide comments about Sinatra the wannabe gangster). Much of the source material is drawn from Quirk's footwork as an entertainment reporter in the 1960s; interviews that he conducted with Peter Lawford over the years also provide some juicy tales of sex and drugs, as well as the inside scoop on his ouster from "the Clan" after brother-in-law President Kennedy backed out of his planned Palm Springs vacation at Frank Sinatra's home. (The same stories, with much less venom and some more pizazz, can be found in Shawn Levy's Rat Pack Confidential.) ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Save your dough
The only reason I give this book one star is because zero stars wasn't an option. It took two guys to write this tripe? One monkey could have done a better job. This book is lazy and poorly written and I am ticked off that I wasted my money on it. The definitive book on the Rat Pack has got to be Shawn Levy's. After reading the first two pages of Levy's book I was hooked. The difference between a real writer and a couple of hacks.

CLIFF"RAT" NOTES
Here is the deal. If you are just starting to get into the Rat Pack or any of the players individually. Then this book is a good start. I would call it the Cliff notes of the individuals and their movies.If you have seen all the movies including the Matt Helm movies or if you have already read books on Dean, Frank, Sammy's biography then you are way ahead of this book and pass it by.

But if you have not seen the movies and want to learn the basics of each man and then from there search into each one of them seperatly then this is a good starter.There are some great books on all the guys but you will finded Sammy's Biography to be the most fun.Remember to check out deanmartinfancenter.com for more info on the Rat Pack. For the guys who wrote this you could have given us some fun facts or answered some questions, instead they read everyone else book and put together their own version.

Ratty
The blurb on the cover of THE RAT PACK says "They had fun" but there's precious little fun to be found here. This book is a tedious listing of (mostly negative) events. It lacks any sparkle and vigor, and if I believed half of it, I'd have to wonder just what the appeal of this group of overgrown adolescents could be. There had to be more.

The Chairman of The Board is the centerpiece as an egomaniacal bully who uses his star power to make the world feel indebted to him. His reported temper tantrums seem utterly absurd. Anyone who used his fists or threats of mob violence as much as the authors claim Sinatra did, should have and would have been locked up, "different era" or no. The Frank Sinatra in these pages wouldn't be a "King of Cool". He wouldn't be anything much.

The rest of the boys orbit around Frank like some kind of an inebriated solar system. The boozing and skirt-chasing is leaden, so where's the thrill? Where are the laughs? If this book is at all accurate (and it isn't, listing Dean Martin's date of death incorrectly), it means that this group of supremely talented entertainers valued nothing, not even themselves.

The bulk of the book is made up of mostly scathing summaries of the Rat Pack movies. Nary a word is said about either Frank or Dean's musical careers. Sammy Davis Jr. is dismissed as little more than the Rat Pack houseboy. Peter Lawford is depicted as a sexually confused drug addict craving the attention of the others. Joey Bishop is virtually forgotten. The Rat Pack Mascots (Shirley MacLaine and Angie Dickinson) get barely honorable mentions (MacLaine far more than Dickinson). One has to wonder why Shirley MacLaine would continue to associate with The Rat Pack after being assaulted by mobster Sam Giancana twice in their company. The book begs an answer. MacLaine is no slouch, so obviously more and better was happening with the "Clan" than this sordid book deigns to tell us. (...)

Save your money
This book is a waste of money. It is a collection of movie reviews starring Rat Packers strung together and pretending to be a book. Only the very most die hard movie fans should consider checking this out of the library but save your money.

What about the music?
I've always heard about the rat pack and wanted to know more about them.The only thing I learned is that this is not the book to find out anything about the "kings of cool."The aspect of the book that I foundmost disturbing (perhaps the most telling) is that the authors mention themusic of the three main men only in passing.You'd think that the musicthat three of the great popular singers of the last half century wouldmerit some discussion.Instead the authors concentrate almost entirely onthe movies, and then they only seem to care about Frank and Dean bedding somany women during the filming of the movies.A typical chapter mentionsthat Frank decides to make a movie, all the guys are more interested inpartying than in making the movie, the movie is finished and stinks despitean occasional funny moment or glimpse of talent from one of the rat pack orthe supporting cast.And by the way, Frank and Dean and Sammy sure had alot of women during the filming.This is not a good book, and I don't knowwhy I even read the whole thing.I'm ashamed of myself. ... Read more

Book Description

From 1934 to 1954, Bing Crosby utterly dominated American entertainment. Nobody has ever had as many hit records, and Crosby was the number one movie star five years in a row. The rise of Bing Crosby was the rise of American popular culture itself.

In A Pocketful of Dreams, the first volume of the definitive Crosby biography, award-winning music critic Gary Giddins chronicles the ascension of Bing's career. From Crosby's early recordings, to his triumph on America's most popular radio show, to his first success in Hollywood, Giddins provides the most detailed study yet of the rise of an American star. ... Read more

Reviews (40)

The First Part.
Out of the Bing bio's I have read, which is quite a few, I would
have to have to say that Gary Giddins book "A Pocketful of Dreams - The Early Years 1903-1940" was the best I have read so far.

The book is so full of information, very detailed, and you could tell it had a lot of research gone into it. The book contains at the start a great amount of detail on his family also, before him, etc. The confusion of the date of Crosby's birth was an interesting part of the book, and has been explained well. Giddins clearly loves the topic in subject, and he has written this brilliantly. He discusses more than just his personal life, he talks about the recordings, the movies, etc. Fully detailing everything.

Its a long book, and worthwile for any Crosby fan to read. It comes with a complete discography and filmography of Crosby up to 1940, where the book ends. I also await the second volume, which I am looking forward to, and I am sure it will be just as good, or atleast close to the first part.

The definitive look at Crosby
Gary Giddins has pealed away the mendacity that has surrounded Bing Crosby in published literature since his death. Bing was pilloried in books by his son Gary, and painted in other biographies as a philandering, cold-as-ice misanthrope. Finally Crosby fans can embrace a book which contains much positive information on one of the greatest and most influential Americans icons of the 20th century. Bing's brilliance has been inexplicably eclipsed since his death. Hopefully, this book will introduce the Crosby magic to those who have never been exposed to it.

Without Bing Crosby, popular music would not sound the way it sounds today, it's that simple. When he first started singing with Paul Whiteman's band in the 20's as a member of the Rhythm Boys, all vocalists sounded the same: weak-kneed tenors warbling through megaphones, ala the insufferable Rudy Vallee. Bing's mellifluous, effortless baritone became the standard by which every other singer strove to emulate: Sinatra, Como, Dean Martin and every other singer initially copied Bing.

Giddins correctly emphasizes Bing's influence on 20th century pop culture. He was a vocal innovator par excellence and his jazz phrasing, timing and cadence remains unmatched. Giddins also explores in great depth Crosby's numerous affairs, his tortured marriage to the alcoholic Dixie Lee, and brings out some interesting gossip: did you know Bing smoked pot regularly with Louis Armstrong in the early 30's? No more Mr. Goody Two Shoes!

I've loved Bing Crosby all my life and have waited a lifetime for an intelligent and readable biography. Gary Giddins is an excellent writer and researcher and he has created a minor masterpiece. This is an essential addition to any Crosbyphile's bookshelf.

The Definitive Bing Biography
Amazingly, no one had written a serious Crosby biography since 1948 - when Bing was a household name - until Gary Giddins gave us this incredible first volume of what promises to be the definitive study of the man of whom it used to be said, "the voice of Bing Crosby has been heard by more people than the voice of any other human being who ever lived."

"Pocketful" is a thorough, heavily researched evaluation of the first half of Crosby's life and career, and his cultural significance. As such, Giddins covers not only the landmark moments and achievements, but also the minutiae. To me, this is not a drawback. The subject is worthy of such intellectual scrutiny. It isn't a gossip-laden Hollywood tell-all, so if that's what you're looking for, look elsewhere.

Bing Crosby personified everything Americans of his generation found admirable: he was self-assured, easygoing, intelligent, quick-witted and athletic, yet modest and self-effacing. Possessing a relaxed manner and a mellifluous and universally appealing baritone voice, he was adored by women and admired by men, and was the nation's most beloved entertainer throughout the Great Depression and the Second World War. The across-the-board nature of his of fame and longevity - he was simultaneously the world's top singer, actor AND radio star for a number of years, and he remained popular to the end of his life - is almost unfathomable in this age of perpetually divergent trends in entertainment, and disposable celebrity.

The cold, hard facts of Crosby's career, laid out for us by Giddins, are staggering:

* He had sold 400 million records by 1980.
* He charted more records (368) - and scored more #1's (38) - than any other recording artist in history, including Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, the Beatles, and Michael Jackson.
* His rendition of "White Christmas" is the most popular single ever, and the only one to make the American pop charts 20 times.
* He dominated the medium of radio for over 30 years with his top-rated programs, regularly attracting 50 million listeners in his peak years (about 1/3 of the population of the U.S. at the time!).
* His "Road" films with Bob Hope were the highest grossing comedies of their time.
* He was the #1 box office movie star for five consecutive years (1944-48), a streak which still hasn't been topped.
* He was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actor three times, and won it in 1944.
* "Going My Way" became the top grossing film in the history of Paramount Pictures. A fluke you say? The next year "Bells Of St. Mary's" became the top grossing film in the history of RKO!
* He was a key figure in the development and popularization of audio- and videotape.
* He started the first celebrity/pro-amateur golf tournament, which raised millions of dollars for charity over the years.

After Bing's death in 1977, his reputation diminished to the point that he was almost forgotten, or simply dismissed, in part due to a hyped-up hatchet job of a book by his eldest son. This straightforward, factual effort by Giddins has begun to turn the tide back in Bing's favor. Since the publication of this essential work, a reassessment of Bing Crosby's life and career has taken place in many circles. A scholarly conference entitled "Bing Crosby and American Culture" was held at Hofstra University in 2002, and last year his alma mater, Gonzaga University, celebrated the centennial of his birth with a three-day event.

Giddins understands that to know about Bing Crosby is to know about American culture from the 1930's through the early 1950's, because Bing WAS American culture during those years.

Wonderful Book - still waiting for volume II!
I, along with Candace Scott and David Lobosco (see below) am on the INTERNET BING CROSBY MUSEUM page, and invite you to join and do disccusion on the board thereon.

Now to the book:
First to that sourpuss writing from Mexico, the guy who complained of Bing's (here were go again) Bing beinbg a "MONSTER" ,writing that Bing had a bad family career-he'll get to that later, but it doesn't mean Bing was a bad guy--girl swooned over him like happened with no one else! Like a lot of biographers on the topic, and as has been said, Giddins first didn't care for Bing but wanted to give fans what they wanted, it it was Bing, and he WAS a major star then turned out a major fan, maybe the biggest. Which applies to THIS project--there is a second volume coming out (with Sinatra, World War II, White XMAS and other factors Bing afloat down the historical pike!Not to mention the Andrews Sisters legendary duets,either!!) Bing was THE original white jazz popularizer. Vocal OR Instrumentla.With Paul WHiteman's1920s Rhythm Boys (Harris Barris and Al Rinker, cowriter of ongs for Disney's first post-Walt flick, "ARISTOCATS"), Bing became a legend. In 1931 CBS's William S.Paley signed him to an exclusive radio contractr, a new label Decca's Jack Kapp (1900-1949) did he same for Bing Crosby for disc, and legendry film pioneer Adolph Zukor of Paramount Pictures, of course, for flicks. Of course Giddins covers trhe rest and we know the rest, which as they say is history-and as Paul Harvey says, we know the REST of the story.

Neither a critic nor a out and out "groupie" as such, Mr.Giddins, a famed VILLAGE VOICE jazz writer, has interesting things about the material of the man, and his thoughts, which sadly DO condescend toward Rudy Vallee and Nick Lucas, and other stars ofthe late 1920s. (One wonders hwther Vallee OR Crosby were the first crooners..)

I wait with baited breath for the NEXT volume.

If you're like a lot of people who THINK that they know their Bing---i.e., MINUTE MAID orange juice guy, amiable family guy on 1960s variety shows, White XMAS, Road trips, rock star David Bowie duet-ter, Andrews Sisters partner (but at least THERE ya gotta give him cedibility if you're a one of the growing swing fans..)....be prepared..be surprised..be fascinated. Vol.II hopefully will be out thsi yeaer, but I can't promise anything...

When is..............
the sequel to this wonderful biography coming out??? Anyone know? ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (18)

Mariah Carey's life and bio. is amazing
Mariah Carey is a wounderful beutiful woman. turned into and on the #1 charts. and this book is wounderful by Chris Nickson and his 1st book on Mraih is a "fantasy"

This is a must!!
I have to admit, when I first picked up this book and started to read it, I didn't like it. The first seven chapters were basically the same as Mr. Nicksons other biography on Mariah! But as I read it, I found myself liking it more and more. Not only does the author have a detailed update, but he's added bits and pieces to the other chapters, which actually makes the book more interesting. This book is a must for any fan of Mariah.

Yippee
When i think of Mariah, I heer the bells in my head. She ain't foolin around when she says I gott get some love. Yea, she is the top and the book will tell you that. I love to chew some good gum when I read about her. She make me want to pop my gum.

mariah carey
If you have read his first book about mariah it is basically the same until the last few pages. But still a great book for dedicated Mariah fans like me!

A Nice Enough "Bio Lite" of Pop Superstar, Mariah Carey
Chris Nickson was one of the first- certainly not THE first author-to get involved in celebrity bios "lite". These are books about very high-profile celebrities, based almost exclusively on press accounts, some transcripts and other information they manage to collect about a celebrity. Most people buy these books- including Nickson's Carey tome- expecting a detailed, behind-the-scenes look at the star's rise to the top. If the book revealed hidden secrets or other negative things about the star and their climb, don't you think it would have been front-page fodder for the tabloids? This is a very nice, and relatively detailed book on Mariah's career. It is 192 pages, so you know it cannot be incredibly detailed, but it does delve into her childhood somewhat, and even into the years-or rather the 'lean year' before her discovery by Mottola. If you are a die-hard Mariah fan and own all of the magazine stories on her, have taped all her concerts and own all of her CD's and singles (let me put it this way, if you know she is the first and only female artist to have debuted at number one in the billboard hot 100, the first to do so three times, the only female artist with 15 chart-topping singles (behind only Elvis and the Beatles), the female artist with more weeks (62) at the top (behind Elvis only), with more platinum and gold singles, with more albums sold (128 million) throughout the world, with 84 gold and platinum records, with two diamond albums, and the only female artists with 8 studio albums certified 4 times platinum or better, if you know her stunning debut spent 22 weeks at the top, that Daydream was, before the Soundscan era and Britney, the biggest-selling (in one week, with 765,000 copies) album, that "Music Box" became the bestselling record ever by a female artist (with over 24 million copies sold right now worldwide, Daydream has sold 21 million, Mariah Carey 13, and even her Christmas Album, which has become a classic album and reached number three on the Billboard 200 sold 8 million copies) if you know all this, you probably will not learn anything new from the book. But it is enjoyable to see Nickson recreate her life from infancy, to marriage, to independent adulthood, while he review her albums and explains how they were put together, and even re-constructs the exciting release of her stunning debut album. Nickson's is a fine piece of nonfiction, and most fans, even those who know EVERYTHING about Mariah and will find nothing new in the book, will enjoy seeing her beautifully charmed life (and VERY productive (and blessed) career), put into perspective. ... Read more

Book Description

A detailed, informative biography of legendary singer Nat King Cole. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Too sterile...
Leslie Gourse had made a career of collecting informations about jazz musicians - but all the infomations in the world dont neccesary make this book interesting.From time to time it seems to me like Im reading Nat Cole's concert date-to-date schedule,but there were any author's style or opinions to be found.Gourse has obviously spend hours researching the documents about this book,yet there is nothing to be said about MUSIC (except providing chart numbers,again so boring and grey).This book cries to be updated,as Natalie Cole recorded her classic "Unforgettable" album after this book was finished!I am currently reading Louis Armstrong's biography "An extravagant life" which has everything this book lack: class,style and most of all,the feeling that author was really involved in writting the book,not just collecting recording dates.

The unforgettable life and music of an American legend
Leslie Gourse's book is interesting to read, with the interviews with friends and family members of Cole's. I found some inaccuracies in describing daughter Natalie's career, but it was a good read. Obviously this book was written right before Natalie released her biggest selling CD, UNFORGETTABLE WITH LOVE, which was a loving tribute to her deceased father, because Gourse doesn't mention it at all. I also noticed that Gourse tends to go off on tangents at times, discussing other people and situations, then is suddenly reminded that this is a book about Nat King Cole.

Gourse gives the reader a behind-the-scenes look at the life of this legendary jazz musician whose fame was only eclipsed by his distinctive and warm baritone voice. He endured many battles against prejudiced whites, in the entertainment industry, in his own family, and in his own race, feeling like he had to act a certain way just to please everybody. It's heartbreaking to know that he died so young. And for all the criticism he received from his own race and from other jazz artists (who never seem to want to acknowledge Nat's background in that genre, unless it's in passing, but yet you had so many groups copying his King Cole Trio format), he was truly a trailblazer, and without him, things may not have happened for blacks when they did...not saying that they wouldn't have happened at all, but because of Nat, THEY DID HAPPEN. I recommend this book when it comes back into print by the end of this year. Reading this and the Epstein biography of Cole (which is more recent, released in Oct. 1999), will give you great insight into his life. You will feel as if you knew him, like I did. Worth checking out. ... Read more

Book Description

Backstreet Boys have achieved incredible success right around the world. From their humble beginnings performing at high schools across America, to vast stadium shows in front of thousands of people, they have followed their dreams and drawn strength from the loyalty of their fans.

Five unique and magnetic personalities, five outstanding talents. Each of the Boys could take the lead on his own, but together they are dynamite. But what are the really like? This book opens up the confidential files on these fantastically successful and famous you men:

Nick - the blond-haired, blue-eyed heartthrob, a practical joker with an artistic eye who is always plugged into computer games.

Brain - born with a heavenly voice and a passion for music, never without a basketball, and with the strength to overcome life's ups and downs.

Howie - personable and confident yet modest, an energetic dancer with a gift for taking the band's music to new audiences.

AJ - a romantic and unpredictable extrovert, with an eye for outrageous clothes, for whom life is always an adventure.

Kevin - the older brother of the group, ambitious and fearless in pursuit of his dreams.

This book gives the lowdown on each of the boys in detail: their early life, their individual talents, their thoughts on romance, success and what the future holds. Packed with great photographs, facts, funny stories and quotes from the boys, this is a must-have for every dedicated fan. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

THIS IS A REALLY GREAT BSB BOOK!
THIS WAS A REALLY GOOD BOOK! I WOULD RECCOMEND BUYING IT EVEN THOUGH IT'S KINDA EXPENSIVE. THIS BOOK HAS PLENTY OF FULL COLOR PICS ON EVERY PAGE AND LOADS OF INFORMATION. THIS IS MY FAVORITE BOOK OF THE BSB THAT I OWN. IT HAS GREAT PICS OF BRIAN...THE HOTTEST GUY ALIVE. SO GET THE BOOK AND KEEP THE BACKSTREET PRIDE ALIVE!!!

It's perfect for any Backstreet Boys fan
This book was amazing. It had a portion of the book for each of the Backstreet Boys. It also had a portion that was all about their concerts and the mistakes they made on stage. It's interesting and funny.

G-R-E-A-T
this book is great.You know My auntie just sent me this book and just handled it.You know i can't buy books about backstreetboys,(but maybe i do,but it's hard for me to find one because i'm from the philippines) but luckily i've had a nice auntie in the U.S. who've sent me this book.But you know i'm really worried 'coz my auntie sent it through mail,so i'm afraid it won't come because some BAD people(philippines) just get it if they found it beutiful for them,so i kept on praying and hoping that the book will be sent to me,and luckily i did. I really recommend this G-R-E-A-T B-O-O-K

i love this book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
i love this book as i said, i realy love the pic's on nick they are soooo beautiful and i love the info, and the pic's on the others of coures but nick most, you must get it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

No BSB fan should be without this book!
this book is the best book on the Backstreet Boys that i have ever read. there is a bio on each of the guys, LOTS of hott pics-including younger pics and shirtless pics- and behind the scenes stuff. there are also stories of the pranks that they play on each other and of accidents and funny stuff that happened onstage. every BSB fan should have this book. it is worth every cent and worth getting! i love Brian soo much, he is soo hott and soo sweet! keep the Backstreet pride alive ya'll! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

What It Feels Like to Be Madonna
Academic scholars and fans will eat up this book of popular articles and critical essays on the queen of pop music. Anyone interested on the phenomenon of "Madonna" should definitely read this. This book provides valuable insight on her career, artistry and impact on on society, (whether you care to admit it or not.) Feminists, gays and lesbians should take note, there is plenty of material here to generate tons of debate on Madonnna's impact for years to come. A VERY VALUABLE AND FAIRLY RECENT RESOURCE!!!!!!!!!!

Big on content, small on editorial detail...
While this books is easily worth the cover price to any Madonna fan or pop culture theorist, as it contains dozens of articles and texts that would be otherwise largely inaccessable, the editorial work is horrible. There are several transcription mistakes, which are painfully obvious even on a cursory reading. There are also many mislabled items, most notably pictures. The worst is a series of articles that are from USA Today dated 1996 - that discuss Madonna's "new" video, "Like A Prayer",which premiered seven years earlier. The articles are obviously mislabled, and no one caught on.

A recomened book for the content, but not for it's shoddy editorial job.

One Hundred Percent Madonna!
Being an extrememly dedicated Madonna fan, I am inclined to like almost any book about her. This was no exception. My favorite parts were towards the beginning because there were a lot of interviews, which I love. There were a lot of articles on other people's opinions of her work and although they were enjoyable to read for the most part; some times it would get a little monotonous. There were also some parts where it seemed many articles in a row would be negative, and that was a little annoying to read over and over. But that's what opinions and commentaries are for, right? That's definitely what this book is!

RIVETING!
The above speaks for itself

Curious
This is an odd collection of commentary on and by Lennon, sometimes boring or missing the point. However, it is interesting to note how some things were received in their day, and the introductory essay from the Boston Phoenix is the most perceptive thing I've ever read about Lennon - apart from Lennon's own massive Playboy and Rolling Stone interviews, which are not included here. Fortunately, we do get the Maureen Cleave article from the 1966 Daily Mail. All in all this collection is somewhat random (as are its chosen illustrations), but interesting. ... Read more

Book Description

A Mountain In The Wind is an exploration into the spirit of a man who continues to touch deeply the lives of millions worldwide. John believed in the oneness of all life and he reached out to all through his music. It has been said that in listening to John Denver sing, a vibration is felt which reaches deep into the soul and heart of those who are open to the message-the message of peace on Earth, of caring and sharing with each other as a family of man.

John Denver is a candle that lights the way. His message to us is simple; you do what you can do. It can be as simple as picking up the litter you see as you walk along the street, or to see the beauty of a sunset and share it with your child. It doesn't have to be something big, yet if each of us does something every day to reach out to those around us, we are making a difference.There have been numerous print and television media stories about him since his death, yet