Product Description
Pam's talent for the blues and a burning passion to prove herself, drove her into the smoky bars of Nashville when she was only 15--and into a destructive relationship with alcohol that landed her in a near-fatal, disfiguring car crash. But Pam wouldn't let her scars or countless operations stop her from achieving her goals. Here is her inspiring story of tragedy and ultimate triumph, overcoming the odds and thriving as a celebrated performer, single mother, and one of the most successful women in Nashville. Photo insert. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Not worthy of its subject
After reading the book, I felt very sorry for Pam.Not because of anything that did or did not happen in her life, but rather because she's the victim of a poorly written bio.There's very little personal revelation, particularly with regard to her adult life.There's just a lot of repetitive stuff about her professional work and the struggle getting to the top - "Oh woe is me, no one in country wants to accept me as a rocker.Why can't Reba paint the way for me"Whatever.The author really does an injustice to Pam making her sound like a whiny little follower.

Pam is a great talent.I don't believe the book is an accurate record of her life. ... Read more

Product Description
A trivia fact book on country music. ... Read more

Product Description
This is the unauthorized tell-all biography of Tanya Tucker, one of the sexiest, most controversial country music stars of our time. Tanya had her first record deal at 13, and by the time she hit adulthood, she had succumbed to a life of wild partying and scandalous relationships with Glen Campbell, Don Johnson and Andy Gibb, among others. Eight pages of photos. Original. ... Read more

Product Description
In 1776, early in the American Revolution, nine-year-old Jenny is befriended in Philadelphia by a future president and meets a woman who will become a legend. ... Read more

Product Description
They're offbeat. They're unusual. Sometimes they're just plain silly. This entertaining guide to the best novelty hits of all time will bring back plenty of memories--and tell the true stories behind the songs. Find out why "They're Coming to Take Me Away, Ha-Haaa!" was banned...how Michael Jackson reacted to Weird Al's parody, "Eat It"...the real-life events that inspired the hit "Harper Valley, P.T.A."--and much, much more. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Ehhh......
As a previous reviewer mentioned, this book contains some factual errors that make its overall accuracy seem questionable. This is a shame, since it's a fun little read-- each song gets two or three pages that describe how it was written, who recorded it (including alternate covers that weren't as successul as its best-known version), how it became popular, and what became of the singers' and songwriters' careers afterward.

I would've liked to give it another star, but I was really disappointed that it didn't have more supporting material-- at the very least, an index would've made it easier to look up specific songwriters/artists; a brief appendix rearranging the songs into chronological order also would've been nice. A discography definitely would've made it easier to actually find recordings of individual songs, and it's too bad the author didn't team up with Rhino Records or someone else who could've assembled a companion CD set.

Ace Collins must be a real Joker
Sorry for the title, but if you like pathetic quips like that, you may enjoy this book.However, if you really want to learn about novelty music and pop culture, look somewhere else.The chapters that I have read (i dont intend to read more) were either poorly researched or just poorly written.

For example, the section on Weird Al Yankovic's song Eat It, Yankovic was incorrectly said to be from New York,the chronology of his music career was mis-represented, and the author actually confused the video of Yankovic's Eat It with his video for Fat.

The chapter on Shel Silverstein gave a lot of vague comments, but said nothing about his work as a poet or his work with Dr. Hook.

Other chapters also confused or neglected facts, although I admittedly did not bother to read many of them. I am sure that some of the information in this book is acurate, but why bother with a halfway attempt at a biography.Anyone siting facts from this book to a real expert will probably look very foolish.
If you want mildly amusing fiction, then here you go, but if you want to know un-dilluted facts, forget it.

fun delightful critical commentary!
This book gives the backstory for dozens of novelty songs and one hit wonders. The writer tells their stories with a marvelous sense of irony and delight: that the singers of Lions Sleep Tonight used to sing the Zulu lyrics without a clue what the song was about, that Convoy was sung by a classically trained art director, that La Macarena was big in South America in the early 1990's (well before it become big in Europe or the US), or that the Hokey Pokey was the B-Side for the Bunny Hop.

Reading this story gives an appreciation for the effort to produce these one-hit wonders and the sheer surprise that was involved in their becoming famous. Interestingly, throughout the book, Collins alludes to dj's and local radio stations that took a chance with one of these songs, something that is difficult to do when clearchannel uses carefully controlled market-driven playlists. This is one of these books with fascinating stories that you will not want to put down. ... Read more

Product Description
Frank, intimate, and inspiring, this detailed portrait of country singer Lorrie Morgan begins with her childhood and continues on to present day. It is the story of a courageous woman whose music has a special ability to touch people's hearts. Photo insert. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Moderate depiction
Parts of Lorrie's life are described in this book.It's not as in-depth as her own biography, of course.I like the description of her relationship with her Dad. It's touching. I also like the description of Tanya Tucker's early fame and how she seemed to overshadow Lorrie - although Lorrie had more Opry experience under her belt at the time. Lorrie's pretty awesome. This book tells of that. ... Read more

Product Description
This is the story of America's best-loved gospel quartet. Photos are included, as well as insight into the Christian values of the group's long career. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

The Cathedrals
A must for any Cathedrals fan and a "should have" for lovers of Gospel music.

A great insight into America's Best-Loved Gospel Quartet!
A great look at the Cathedrals' history, George Younce and Glen Payne's stories, and the gospel music business in general. A MUST read for anyone who has ever listened to gospel music!

It's too short!
A great book for Cathedral's fans.The lives of these two gentlemen are a true example of what being in God's service is all about.They have touched hearts and lives for decades with their music.My only complaintis that it was too short and I hope someday, the full and complete story ofGlen Payne and George Younce will be told.

God is Good!!
WOW! As a fan of the Cathedrals, I loved reading about the 2 Sr members.The Lord worked in both of their lives to bring them together to bless us all with their music and their commitment to the call on their lives.Ifyou love the Cathedrals, you will LOVE this book!!!!!!!!!!

Definitely a must-read book for all who love the Cathedrals
I borrowed this book from a friend and read it, and now I want to purchase the book for my library.I have managed to get two of the books for two different friends autographed at several of their concerts.This makes thebook even more meaningful, especially having Glen's and George'sautographs.I would highly recommend purchasing this book and adding toyour library. ... Read more

Product Description
Just two short years ago, The Dixie Chicks were practically unheard-of outside of Texas, but today, they're the hottest act in country music. The explosive popularity of their album Wide Open Spaces has rocketed the Chicks to the top of the charts, and in the last year alone, they have won three Grammys (Best Country Album, Best New Artist and Best Country performance by a duo or group with vocal), two Country Music Association awards and an American Music Award. Their new album is expected to do even better. Now, veteran country music writer Ace Collins has captured their whole inspiring story, from their early days playing to loyal fans in Dallas, right up to their current success and thrilling future!
... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

The Chicks
I'm not the kind of person who likes country music, but when I heard the Dixie Chicks on the radio, I was pleasantly surprised at their music. So I bought this book and it is very interesting to read about all the thingsthe Chicks have been through. They are strong, persistent, and fun lovingwomen that gave modern country music a new look.

emily
do you havea boyfrin ... Read more

Product Description
These true, fascinating stories of the inspiration, heartache, trials, and faith that inspired some of the greatest Christmas carols, hymns, and popular songs will enrich the joy and celebration of the Christmas season. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (16)

Wonderful!
I love this book. It's so informative and interesting. These already profound songs - that have endured for so many years - become even more so once you learn the stories behind them. HIGHLY recommended!

A Must Read!
While I already enjoyed these Christmas songs, reading the stories behind the songs makes singing or hearing them even more meaningful.

Stories Behind the Best Loved Songs of Christmas
Enjoyed the book.Didn't order a miniature but it worked out. Arrived in great shape. Thanks!

A great gift
I heard Ace Collins on a radio show talking about his book and sharing some of the stories/origins behind many of my favorite Christmas songs, both sacred and secular.Not only did I want the book for myself, but decided it would make a great gift, especially for people in my life who have EVERYTHING--I'm sure you have some of those people too.I bought two copies at a very reasonable price and the recipients loved them.I plan to buy a few more for next Christmas.

Great read - but too small
The book and information was wonderful.A very nice read.However - stick to the original size.This miniature edition is a little TOO miniature... only about 1 inch square. ... Read more

Product Description
You know these songs by heart. They're the 'greatest hits' of Christmas. But do you know the fascinating, inspirational stories behind them---who wrote them and how they came to be? In his latest book, Ace Collins reveals the stories behind the greatest hits of Christmas---all the songs you have enjoyed for generations.For example, as the story goes, jazz great Mel Torme wrote 'The Christmas Song' after visiting a friend in California, who, longing to escape California's heat for the cold winters of his New England, doodled these now-famous phrases on his spiral pad: 'Chestnuts roasting ... Jack Frost nipping ... Yuletide carols ...' Torme saw those words and one of the most famous Christmas songs of all time, first recorded by Nat King Cole, was born.Within these pages, you'll discover the origins of such famous Christmas songs as 'Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,' 'Winter Wonderland,' 'White Christmas,' 'Little Drummer Boy,' 'Feliz Navidad,' 'O Holy Night,' and two dozen others. Although not yet as famous as the Christmas songs of which he writes (he's working on that), Collins's many books have sold tens of thousands of copies and have become treasured family classics, read and enjoyed by young and old alike.His new book is a treasure-trove of the kind of magic that makes Christmas the beloved holiday it is. This is Ace Collins at his storytelling best ... which means it's sure to become a 'greatest hit' with your family, too. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Perfect Christmas gift
I'll admit up front, I'm a huge fan of Ace Collins.I've read quite a bit of his books and am proud to say he's a friend of mine. Quite simply, there really isn't an author I purely enjoy reading more than him.

His latest gives us the stories and background of several Christmas hits, some of which the reader will be familiar with, and others not so familiar. But every single one has an intriguing story behind it, and is written with the author's penchant for great story telling.

The reader for instance finds out that JINGLE BELLS was actually meant for a Thanksgiving service (pg.20).. that there is only one reference to bells in the Bible (pg.41)...that Brenda Lee's ROCKIN' AROUND THE CHRISTMAS TREE is the 4th best selling Christmas single of all time (pg. 153).

Many of the songs were written or became well known during wartime, and some will deeply move the reader, perhaps to tears as I did.Two of the most touching are the stories behind LET THERE BE LIGHT and THE LITTLE DRUMMER BOY.

This is a great addition to any personal library and would make an excellent Christmas gift..go out and buy one or two today!



... Read more

Product Description
How could a Christmas Carol be controversial? Why would a church forbid caroling? Wat made candy canes disgraceful? Find out from award winning author Collins in this five-day cassette series. You'll learn the history behind: Lights, Greenery, Advent, St. Nicholas, Music. This item is out of print and very hard to find. A great and rare gift. ... Read more

Product Description
Word count: 1604. ... Read more

Product Description
In this gripping collection of extraordinary moments from our nation's past, Ace Collins tells the real-life tales of men, women, and children trapped in situations beyond their control.Culled from documents, interviews with key participants, and news stories of the day, Tragedies of American History chronicles the harrowing human drama of individuals facing life at its most extreme.

From the Galveston Hurricane of 1900 to the Coconut Grove Fire of '42, from the Great Nashville Train Wreck of 1918 to 1953's Waco Tornado, here are the famous as well as the forgotten events that illustrate America's strength in the face of overwhelming circumstances. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

OVER SENSATIONALIZED
A good cross section of American disasters is presented here.For hurricanes, the Galveston storm of 1900.For shipwrecks, the terrible Sultana tragedy in theCivil War. Aviation buffs will be interested in the 1960 mid-air collision discussed in the first chapter.Altogether, thirteen are included, from the 1860's to the 1960's. Americans live in a dangerous country.

Unfortunately the stories here are marred by the author's sensationalist writing style.Apparently these disasters, some of the worst in our history, are not dramatic enough by themselves.They need to be described in near hysterical terms; cars are tossed about like ping pong balls, children like rag dolls.People face unimaginable horrors at every turn.Hurricane Camille turns out to be 'worse than war, or anything that can be imagined'.The tri-state tornado of 1925 becomes a living monster with an 'unquenchable blood lust'.It wanted nothing more than to rip the heads off of school children returning home.The hyperbole distorts facts as well as the storm is bumped to a non existent F-6.Waco's 1953 tornado is said to generate winds of over 500 mph, or 200 faster than possible.

Collins would have done better to focus on the impact of disasters and demonstrate their influence on history.He could also have given us some follow up on the characters mentioned.Instead he aims to shock us with endless descriptions of mutilated bodies and unprecedented destruction.These events need to be documented with facts, not adjectives.

Tragedies of American History: 13 Stories of Human Error and Natural Disaster
A book that I could not put down till I had read it from front to back.The stories were spell bonding and some of them made you cry.Thank you.


Karen Kay Ullom

not bad
The book was a little rough to read, it's not for light hearted readers.

Gratuitous, Unnecessary Disaster-Porn.
I'm a big fan of the natural disaster genre. In fact, I may be writing my thesis on it. It isn't as though I was expecting a scholarly, exact, detailed retelling of the events in "Tragedies of American History"; I think it's clear from the beginning that the book is intended for popular audiences, and there's nothing wrong with that.

However, there is something wrong with the disrespectful writing style in this book. Bad writing either fails to convey the author's intent, or it can strip all meaning from serious events. In this case, I am speaking of the latter. Collins may well be a good writer - anyone who hammers out that many decapitations of children in such detail that I, viewer of a thousand Triangle Shirtwaist photos, actually get nauseous reading it must be skilled at description. But part of writing, particularly in nonfiction, is also maintaining a level of decency in your prose. Not only does Collins fail to do this in such a degree as to potentially be emotionally scarring to anyone who reads the book, but the lurid narration destroys any possible meaning one can take from this book or the tragedies the narratives are based on. (I say "based on" because there is many a conjecture made that any responsible nonfiction writer would avoid making.) What is so frustrating about all of this is that if Collins can convey horror this well, he should drop the pretense and just write prose. He'd outsell Stephen King in a minute, and manage to not be disrespectful to the memories of those who died in these tragedies.

If you really enjoy detail on what it must feel like for a terrified 7-year-old to be roasted alive, by all means, pick up the book. If decapitations turn you on, this is perfect. But this book has no value; it is merely an exercise in the pornography of human frailty. ... Read more

Product Description
Traces the life of the renowned daredevil from his days as a high-school dropout and petty thief through his rise to fame and superstardom to his later years as liver-transplant survivor. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

But the PICTURES are good!
The biography is detailed, interesting, and there are many pictures. I don't know what "lazy writing" means, but my focus was on the man, not the author.

Clearly Evel knew his faults, but he found a way to make a living knowing his physical health would suffer and he'd be in pain for the rest of his life. His last stunt was taking a baseball bat to his promoter, who was also his lawyer, a mistake he would regret for the rest of his life. (The lawyer is going after what remains of Evel's estate.)

Even if you like Knievel, you won't like this book!
I agree with a previous reviewer who said this was a completely lazily-written book. Whether or not you approve of Evel's behavior, his life was anything but boring. Yet the tedious and poor writing style of this author tells Knievel's story in a way that's about as interesting as reading the White Pages upside down. It's unbelievable that a national publisher would print a book this sloppy. In addition to being poorly-written, it appears as though no one even proofread it. Repetition and typos abound. And it seems to be based on not much more than re-hashed facts from a few feature articles written about Knievel in big magazines in the 1970s (and maybe the foggy recollection of the hokey Evel Knievel biopic from 1971). Grammatically, this is possibly the most poorly-written book I have read in my adult life. As far as telling a story in general, it gets even worse marks. I can't believe someone got paid to write this. It really is THAT bad. And I LIKE Evel Knievel!

Should have named himself "Conceded Knievel"
I can't say the writing is bad, just the subject. An American Hero ? A womenizing, boozing, petty thief and con-man a hero, I don't think so, probably a fun guy to hang out with.. but no hero.

Vapid puff piece
Nobody's demanding Boswell's Life of Johnson here, but Collins has fashioned a hazily-remembered, lazily-written biography of one of the 1970s most singular public figures. Where's the index or bibliography? Where's the list of sources? Who proofread this book (the word "athlete"is misspelled -- on the back cover, yet!)? I never thought I'd utter thisphrase in public, but: Evel Knievel deserves better.

A Hero for ALL of US
Evel Knevel has written a lively and engaging book that tells about his halcyon days stealing money from people cracking safes in the 1960s.The cops knew I did it, he says, but never caught him. Now he and his soncharge the culturally deprived a lot of money to see motorcycle stunts.What a country! What a hero! ... Read more

Product Description
Kit includes 96-page book, a large assortment of balloons, and a hand pump to inflate balloons. ... Read more