Product Description
·Photographs of an exceptional artistic quality
·Auction catalog of exclusive, never-before-seen photographs of one of the biggest stars in the world
·The story of an artistic collaboration between a 23-year-old photographer and a word-famous pop star
·International press campaign and worldwide release

In July 1999 Michael Jackson asked Arno Bani to do an exceptional and secret photo shoot with him. The result of these two days together was 700 exclusive photographs. They have been acquired by Pierre Bergé & Associates and will be sold in Paris on December 15, 2010. There are 12 unique, never-before-seen large-format portraits as well as the complete contact plates annotated by the King of Pop himself.

This will be a major event, and not just for Michael Jackson fans. Past Pierre Bergé auctions, such as the Yves Saint Laurent sale in February 2009, have attracted worldwide interest. The book will have the entire collection of photographs and is destined to become a rare collector's item. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

"BEAUTIFUL BOOK"
Why did you offer this book as a pre-order and and now you ship in 1 to 3 months......I had to cancel my paperback order and buy the hardback copy because I do not want to wait that long!The hardback copy is twice the price! As of October 29,2010.... This Book is simply Beautiful......the Photos of Michael Jackson......simply A WORK OF ART.....and the story behind how this young photographer came about to take these photos of Michael Jackson!It is worth the price of the Hardcopy! Buy it you will cheerish it for ever!:)I had to add to my review after I got the Book!!! SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL!!!! ... Read more

Product Description
Titles: Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' * Jam * They Don't Care About Us * Human Nature * Smooth Criminal * The Way You Make Me Feel * Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground) * I Just Can't Stop Loving You * Thriller * Beat It * Black or White * Earth Song * Billie Jean * Man in the Mirror * This Is It. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (593)

An unbeatable deal.
No doubt, most of those who bought this flash drive like Michael Jackson's music and dance. Plus the high quality of movie and the flash drive itself. This is an unbeatable deal. For those who don't like the contents very much, you can at least keep the cool Kingston flash drive. So, buy it before sold out.

Genius
What ever you thought of Michael Jackson, he is the greatest entertainer of all time - that is a fact!!!...this film is marvelous..I only wish that more of that 120 hours of footage could be released...Michael Jackson was the Frank Sinatra and Fred Astaire/Gene Kelly of this generation...His choreography places him in the league class as Astaire and Kelly...entertainmentwise, he will be sorely missed

Michael will always be The Best
I grew up listening to classical music and also playing classical music. Though I have also always liked pop music very much, I never imagined there would come a time when I would reach the point of literally *falling in love* with a pop artist. Never,... until I saw a Michael Jackson video (Dangerous) for the first time. I was in awe. That was about twenty years ago but his limitless talent and his unique charisma, his jaw-dropping performances, his admirable singing abilities were more than I would have ever expected from any performer. For different reasons, I never had the chance to see MJ live, but I had the hope that there would come a day when I would be one of the lucky ones standing in the audience at one of MJ's live concerts somewhere in the world. I had been hoping for Michael to return to the stage and, once more, awe the world with his unique talent. It could not happen. More than a year has passed since Michael's passing and I have not been able to come to terms with it. He was too special. He should have lived forever. I am so glad and so thankful to have been able to have this great video. As soon as "This is it" became available I got it on DVD. Just recently I also got another copy on blu-ray and I am thinking of getting a third one, just in case. Had Michael had the chance to go on his "This is it" tour, it would have been a wonderful show. It didn't happen, and this saddens me deeply. Michael was a very special human being and, as an artist, had a talent like no other. He was the best pop artist that ever lived, he is the best and he will *always* be the best. I know for a fact there will never be anyone even half as brilliant as him and this video comes to prove once more that his talent, charisma, professionalism, intelligence, perfectionism were unique. At almost 50 years of age, Michael was ready, once again, to charm and inspire the whole world. I will never find the words to describe my admiration for this phenomenal artist, for this special man. Michael was out of this world. Love you always, Michael.

The day of passing
The showing of his passing services at the Staple Center. And the details of his passing.

greatest movie to see!
i saw this movie in theaters last year it was great.Very sad that he died.i love the songs and it looked like it was goin to be a good concert in 3-D. Then i waited to be on dvd i got the one disc when it came out and i notice they had two-disc i didn't know which one was good. i found out the two-disc was better.so by the time i went back to the store it sold out.so i keeped the one-disc and when i saw they had this it was cheap alot better what they charged which was $25.99. i am glad i got this one. And gave the one-disc to friend.i love bonus features dirty diana and smooth criminal with the dancers in it.i couldn't stop singing along through the whole movie.It was sad seeing him very thin in the movie i knew somethin wasn't right.Now i know what he is like in rehearsals. But he did look good for his age.i wish michael was still with us.may you rest in peace. ... Read more

Product Description
So much has how been said and written about the life and career of Michael Jackson that it has become almost impossible to disentangle the man from the myth. This book is the fruit of over 30 years of research and hundreds of exclusive interviews with a remarkable level of access to the very closest circles of the Jackson family - including Michael himself. Cutting through tabloid rumours, J. Randy Taraborrelli traces the real story behind Michael Jackson, from his drilling as a child star through the blooming of his talent to his ever-changing personal appearance and bizarre publicity stunts. This major biography includes the behind-the-scenes story to many of the landmarks in Jackson's life: his legal and commercial battles, his marriages to Lisa Marie Presley and Debbie Rowe, his passions and addictions, his children. Objective and revealing, it carries the hallmarks of all of Taraborrelli's best-sellers: impeccable research, brilliant storytelling and definitive documentation. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (155)

Worth Reading
The book is an easy read and the topic is fascinating.Somehow, I feel it could have offered more insight if, as the author claims, he was "a friend" of MJ. There has been so much written about MJ's life that there is not much new information here. A lot of it will be familiar. This is an old book with a few new pages added at the end.

One thing that I find strangely missing in all of these bios, is that nobody concentrates on what an unique andbrilliant musician MJ was from the very start and how his art matured.MJ was a musical genius like no other -- Yet, other than the "This is it" movie, nobody ever shows him as a professional, working artist.That is what his life was really about. Who cares if he wore makeup? So did Elvis,Jagger and KISS.

Bashir could have won an Oscar if he had chosen to make a documentary about MJ's work --instead he chose to drag us down through the mud --as he profited.

I feel that this author short changed the Jordie Chandler story, MJ's insanely ineffective defense team, and did not persue the fact that Chandler's father demanded $20 million upfront at the first meeting.The book did not stress the fact that the accuser incorrectly said MJ was circumcised.At the end of the book, the author mentions that MJ had been investigated for paedophilia by the FBI and the LAPD for 10 years and there was no evidence to implicate MJ.That piece of information alone could be a book.

The book barely mentions the fact that MJ lived with chronic medical problems : lupus and lung inflamation.Both of these medical conditions impact daily activity, especially for someone who dances and sings for a living.

MJ was a compassionate man, personally visiting and helping orphanages and pediatric hospitals, and donated more than $300 Million to charity.This was barely touched on in the book. It would have been so much more interesting if one of these authors had ever looked into how MJ felt about that side of his life-- that he is a professional and he uses his success to help others.

The book obviously talks about MJ's lost childhood. He was the golden goose for the whole Jackson family from a very early age. A heavy weight for MJ to carry all his life. Other than Janet, None of them ever seemed to get a job of their own. MJ was the cash machine for all of them -- family, promoters, record companies... keep him working, keep him working and they can all have Rolls Royces. It's a hard pill to swallow.

It is my feeling that MJ was not really trying to regain the missed childhood -- he was really looking for the basic RESPECT and LOVE he should have received as a child.What kind of parents (Katherine included here)allow their 8 year old to be performing in sex clubs??? What kind of callous brothers have sex with groupies in front of their 8 year old brother??

The book drives home that because of MJ's determination to surround himself with children, MJ was a train wreck waiting to happen and there was nobody to stop him.

I am glad I read the book. But I feel disatisfaction. So many questions left unanswered. so many ways MJ might have been helped. He was left to die in so many ways and everyone made their money as he drowned.

MJ is still a mystery. And he died way too soon.It is the saddest, saddest thing.
Michael Jackson was magnificent.

Balanced, NOT a Negative View of MJ, but Needs More Details on Last Years
This book was first published while Michael was alive, in 1991. It was periodically updated since that time and the latest edition includes MJ's death and its aftermath. If Michael had a serious problem with the book, then I wonder why he granted subsequent interviews with the author. I don't think that Taraborrelli's take on Michael is negative, as some reviewers have suggested. The author seems to highly value MJ, as a complex individual and as a great performer, while seeking to provide a balanced perspective and objectively explain the often contradictory life of a man who, at his core, was very confused and conflicted.

I wish that some "facts" were more accurate, such as the repeated references to the "blond" hair of Blanket ("Prince Michael II") --which makes you wonder about the accuracy of other claims. (I saw no mention of the changing color of Prince's hair, i.e., "Prince Michael I", which was brown in infancy, then became blond and platinum --with brown roots-- then brown again.) I also wish there was more info on Grace Rwaramba, the children's nanny, who was just briefly mentioned.

I read this book a couple times, but skipped around a lot and, for my purposes, I found the index to be very poorly written and not a helpful guide for someone looking for information by topics. For example, there are specific entries for most Jackson family members but not one for Michael and others, such as Grace. I would have liked to see detailed entries in the index regarding important aspects of Michael's life, including his drug and eating habits. For example, it was stated that MJ was on a "macrobiotic" diet --which I gather is accurate, though it's rather contradictory for someone with a known sweet tooth. The book later described how Mike demanded a menu of KFC for breakfast, lunch and dinner when he was flying on (private) airplanes. His preference for KFC was noted by others, but I could find nothing in the book explaining a change in Michael's eating habits. Similarly, the author alluded to books written by several of Michael's former employees, but he really only mentioned the one by Bob Jones --and it was just listed in the index under Jones, so you had to know the name of the employee to find this info.

In the final chapters, the author focused heavily on the executors of Michael's will, especially, John Branca. I assume this was due to suspicions raised by family members regarding folks like this who reappeared in MJ's life shortly before he died. I think the focus on this was at the expense of more detailed information about the end of Mike's life (i.e. the inclusion of things that most of us didn't already know.) That might have helped readers to get a better understanding of what MJ was doing since the trial, while in self-imposed exile, how he fulfilled his role as a father, and what led up to Michael's life ending so tragically.

This book is heavy on the early life of MJ and family. While it did fill in some missing pieces on important people in Michael's later years, such as regarding Liz Taylor, Lisa Marie Presley and Debbie Rowe, others were barely addressed, including Madonna and Nikko Brando. With lots of details about the molestation charges, but just a cursory overview of other aspects of MJ's adult years, including those since leaving Neverland, the "Whole Story" seems incomplete. I think that readers dealing with the loss of Michael would like to see new, detailed information, such as regarding the last years, months and days of Michael's magical but troubled life.

Negative
Unfortunately this book portrays MJ a lot more negatively that it should. You can just tell that Taraborelli had an attitude about Michael and it shows. It is too bad, because it would be great to have such a big book that is truly factual and positive and not have so much conjecture, innuendo, and tabloid stuff instead. And Taraborelli lists Dianne Dimond as a friend? She is a tabloid trash writer who totally smeared MJ. Hmmmmm? Speaks volumes to me.

MJ's own autobiography Moonwalk is a good book and it is MJ's own words not some made up stuff like in a lot of this book.Try Moonwalk instead!

why?
why did j.randy taraborelli wrte this dumb book? half the stuff in this boook doesnt even sound like anyting i think would happen to anyone let alone michael jackson. i know michael jackson was alittle strange but this book puts him in a bad light. somethings in here are entertaining though like the stuff about tatum oneal. other than tha the book basically is mean spirited some might say but im not afraid to say it sucks.

Appropriate Book Title
This book probably tells it better than others. Michael and the rest of the Jackson family were not able to hide or avoid some things as much as in other readings. There will always be those secrets, but who doesn't have secrets. I know I do and I'm not telling. It's nobody's business. Being a true Michael Jackson fan I found this book to be upfront and honest. I truly enjoyed reading it and it made me realize that although very rich and very famous, Michael Jackson did not love himself. He turned a beautiful face into a clown-face. So sad... ... Read more

Product Description
Michael Jackson: The Making of "Thriller" is an illustrated tribute to the King of Pop and his groundbreaking music video, with never-before-seen photos of its creation. The book features over 200 exclusive, behind-the-scenes photographs of the artist on set during the 1983 production of the Grammy award winning video directed by John Landis.

Considered to be the most successful project of all time, "Thriller" is beloved the world over, inspiring imitation and a cult-like following of millions of fans.Documenting the creation of the most popular and iconic music video of all time, this book celebrates the artist and his music at the top of his career.


Famed photographer Douglas Kirkland and journalist Nancy Griffin were the only members of the media allowed on the set of the video.The resulting photos capture Jackson both in high performance mode and relaxing on the set and depict his transformation into the characters in the video as well capturing the public and private faces of Michael Jackson.

Compelling, intimate photos of the artist are accompanied by interviews and quotes from musicians and celebrities, including Sir Paul McCartney, Diddy, Beyonce, Steven Spielberg and many more.With a holographic cover that, when tilted, transforms the artist into his zombie character, the book is an impressive gift to be treasured by fans and music lovers everywhere. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

nice, but......
The photos in this book are nice to have and I have enjoyed reading all the artist's comments in the book about Michael Jackson.But if you feel you must own this book please disregard the words of authors of this book, Douglas Kirkland and Nancy Griffin.They are simply unaware that whatever it is that makes a journalist tick is something that is extremely destructive to an artist like Jackson and decidedly unhelpful to the general public and their grasp of what art really is.This book contributes nothing to the subject of why Thriller is the single most enduring and beloved work in the genre.The authors are unable to give an accurate synopsis in the beginning chapter "The Story of the Thriller".Their observations and remembrances about being on the set reveal a lack of understanding about the film and the artists who created it.Their reflections on Jackson's life show they didn't do their homework on Michael Jackson before putting out a book about him.I'm afraid we still have to wait if we want a good informative book about Michael Jackson and the making of Thriller.

Great photos, unwelcome commentary
Jackson fans will surely want this volume for their collections, with the behind the scenes photos of the making of the Thriller short film. True, many are still shots that can be seen in action contained within "The Making of Michael Jackson's Thriller" home video, but many are seen here for the first time. What is disappointing and keeps tis from being a truly "5 star" volume is the random and unnecessary commentary from Nancy Griffin, whose discomfort with the king of pop taints the volume from the beginning. She is a journalist by trade, but yet says "whether Michael Jackson was a victim or a perpetrator in his later years, we will never know". Hey, journalist, how about doing some reserach and reading the trial transcripts, and then you'll have your answer! She also says "one thing we know for sure, he did not find happiness". So, there is definitely judgement cast by Griffin, but at least her comments are contained almost entitely within the Introduction - fans will move on quickly.

Elsewhere, Douglas Kirkland makes the comment "What a waste!" in reference to the suggestion that co-star Ola Ray seemed interested in Michael because Michael "wasn't wired that way", and the reader is left to interpret this for themselves.

Finally, I always wonder why "experts" on Jackson's career imply that it was all down hill after Thriller, when even a quick survey of history will tell you that his most popular days, best selling tours, and subsequent new world records in number one songs were still a few years away. What certainly was "all down hill" after Thriller was the media's handling of Michael Jackson. It is but too bad the volume is tainted with some unnecessary speculation, but its value is as a photographic time capsule of a very significant event in music history.

I love it
I wish I would've have ordered two, that way I can have one to read and the other unopened. Every MJ fan should buy this book.

A "thrilling" visual orgasm...
Starting from the lenticular cover showing Michael as man and zombie, the book invites you to remember, reminisce, dream about Michael back in 1983. This is the Michael I fell in lust with, that teenage crush I had at age 15. I hated Ola Ray, that lucky girl. This book brings me back to those schoolgirl, jealous twinges again. The pictures of Michael and Ola Ray flirting behind the scenes. Ahhhh....

The book is colorful and engaging. The little notes about what was going on were informative, but I admit I bought the book for the lovely pictures of Michael. It also gives location information which I love as I like to travel around LA following Michael's footsteps. IMO, it had too many costume pictures, I want the more natural, movie theater scene Michael, before the zombie and werewolf pictures, like the ones outside of the Palace Theater in downtown LA, but I know this book encompasses the whole 4 days.

Please, buy the book, BUT please do not read the unnecessary, and I feel derogatory opinions/beliefs of the person who wrote the introduction, Nancy Griffin.Why the author, Douglas Kirkland added this in this otherwise perfect visual orgasm of a book is beyond me!!!

Michael Jackson in 1983 is, to me, perfection, his beautiful eyes, those sexy lips, ahhh... I need to take a minute.

OK, I am back... At 15 and now at age 42, the Thriller era has always been my favorite and I am so happy that this book celebrates this era in the life of Michael Jackson. It is a wonderful piece of history that I cherish and tie much of my teen memories to. Thank you Douglas Kirkland for preserving this for us lifelong MJ fans and for exposing this experience to new fans alike. ... Read more

Product Description
From the fifties to his death in 2009, it is a complete record of Michael's moves, grooves and music. Illustrated with hundreds of colour and black and white photographs, it includes all Michael's records, concerts, videos and awards, memorabilia and records you never knew existed. From Steeltown to Motown, from the Jackson 5 to his own man, from "The Wiz" to "Thriller", Michael Jackson was bad, smooth, dangerous and invincible. He made the most exciting videos, with the deffest moves, played the most spectacular concerts, and filled the world's largest arenas. He began performing at the age of five, broke records since he was 11 and was a star without equal from the age of 21. Never far from the media spotlight Michael's whole aura often seemed alienated from reality. "The Visual Documentary" presents all the facts about Michael's life and death as never before. Here is everything you need to know about the tragic superstar. "Michael Jackson - The Visual Documentary" has been compiled by Adrian Grant, a writer renowned fort his close affiliation with Jackson and a pioneer of many Jackson related projects including the stage musical "Thriller". ... Read more

Customer Reviews (59)

Michael Jackson: A Visual
This book has all the things that MJ did OR was honored for on a month to month basis. I knew he was loved and admired but I didn't know there was so much. I love this book as it's very imformative about his awards and honors.

A manual on MJ`s life
I have not read the entire book yet, but I have found it incredibly helpful. I do hope that all that is therein is true. I also am comparing it with Michael's Randy Taraborelly biography and sometimes they don't match. Sometimes I think that Randy makes some remarks that are only guesses and at the end Randy is not very nice to MJ.
This book is awesome because you can follow Michael's doings and happenings step by step in each and every year.
Another thing about the author. He really is MJ`s friend and the book is a real tribute to him because he enphasizes the real and good things and he does not spend time mentioning the dirt and unkind tabloid news which Michael so hated and he also do not call MJ by the name he so did not like, which I am not mentioning here.
This book is a real manual on MJ's entire life.
I love MJ so much but unfortunately I got to know him only after his death. I have been studying his life and career every day since his death. I have to do this because I wasn't aware of him during his lifetime so now I have to catch up and am finding each day amazing things about this man. I sometimes just can't hold myself and I am an old Brazilian lady!!!

Could have been a great book
This book could have been so much better.It chronologically details Michael Jackson's musical achievements in a large, clear format with dates in bold font.There are many great picturs, BUT the majority are in black & white.Considering the high-expectations for quality picture reproduction in today's book market, the lack of color pictures seems like the publisher is skimping to earn higher profits.

As this item is meant for a gift, I can only hope the recipient is not as disappointed as I am.

Unbelievable!!!
My gosh, this was one hot looking individual!I would have married him in a second.Make up or not make up.He was gorgeous!

For those of us who have a mission to follow Michael's
footsteps around the world, this is a great book to start with.The book lets you know where Michael was and when and then you can also walk in his footsteps by going to those same places to reminisce about Michael and what he was doing while he was there, making history, eating, signing autographs, etc.Thank you Adrian for this wonderful tribute edition. I treasure the information and the pictures in it! ... Read more

Product Description
The #1 New York Times bestseller! Michael Jackson’s one and only autobiography – his life, in his words.

With original Foreword by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, a new Introduction by Motown founder Berry Gordy, and an Afterword by Michael Jackson’s editor and publisher, Shaye Areheart.

“I’ve always wanted to be able to tell stories, you know, stories that came from my soul. I’d like to sit by a fire and tell people stories – make them see pictures, make them cry and laugh, take them anywhere emotionally with something as deceptively simple as words. I’d like to tell tales to move their souls and transform them. I’ve always wanted to be able to do that. Imagine how the great writers must feel, knowing they have that power. I sometimes feel I could do it. It’s something I’d like to develop. In a way, songwriting uses the same skills, creates the emotional highs and lows, but the story is a sketch. It’s quicksilver. There are very few books written on the art of storytelling, how to grip listeners, how to get a group of people together and amuse them. No costumes, no makeup, no nothing, just you and your voice, and your powerful ability to take them anywhere, to transform their lives, if only for minutes.” –Michael Jackson, in Moonwalk

From the 1988 edition:

Megastar Michael Jackson’s singularly brilliant career and intensely private lifestyle have become a magnificent obsession for millions of rock fans and celebrity watchers throughout the world.His double-platinum singles rocket to the top of the music charts with a velocity equaled only by the inevitable accompaniment of wild rumors about his eccentric personal life.Now for the first time, Michael Jackson breaks the fiercely guarded barrier of silence that has surrounded him in a remarkably candid and courageous book — Moonwalk.

In this intimate and often moving personal account of Michael Jackson’s public and private life, he recalls a childhood that was both harsh and joyful but always formidable.Michael and his brothers played amateur music shows and seamy Chicago strip joints until Motown’s corporate image makers turned the Jackson 5 into worldwide superstars.Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5 have combined sales of over 200 million albums.He talks about the happy prankster days of his youth, traveling with his brothers, and of his sometimes difficult relationships with his family over the years.He speaks candidly about the inspiration behind his music, his mesmerizing dance moves, and the compulsive drive to create that has made him one of the biggest stars in the music business and a legend in his own time. The Guinness Book of World Records lists Thriller as the biggest-selling-album of all time.

In Moonwalk, Michael Jackson shares his personal feelings about some of his most public friends…friends like Diana Ross, Berry Gordy, Quincy Jones, Paul McCartney, Fred Astaire, Marlon Brando, and Katharine Hepburn.He talks openly about the crushing isolation of his fame, of his first love, of his plastic surgery, and of his wholly exceptional career and the often bizarre and unfair rumors that have surrounded it.

Illustrated with rare photographs from Jackson family albums and Michael’s personal photographic archives, as well as a drawing done by Michael exclusively for this book, Moonwalk is a memorable journey to the very heart and soul of a modern musical genius. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (173)

Moon Walk
I was already so happy with the price of the book since I had been looking to purchase it but wasn't able to afford it elsewhere. Then I found it on Amazon and I just about cried when I received the book. It has Michael Jackson's signature inside. It was truly a surprise and made my purchase all the more worth it!

excellent book
This is an excellent book. I enjoyed reading it and wish there was a sequel!
There are color pictures throughout. I liked reading a book that contains Michael's own words! He tells a lot about his life and views about things. It's a rich source of info straight from Michael. One of my favorite books.

Great Read
I am a huge MJ fan and really enjoyed hearing his story from his own words. I do wish he would have written another book from between the time he wrote "Moonwalk" and before his death. He will be missed so much. Maybe he had planned on it later after his last tour. The book was an easy read and had a lot of information in it for a short read. The book really gives you an idea how brilliant he was and how he went about creating music along with his relationships with family, friends and the special ladies in is life. I like that he put in there little stories of his recording studio experiences that led to some of the greatest songs ever written. Another great plus to this book is that it has wonderful photos in it and not too many so you feel that you are getting enough read. Being an MJ fan I already knew some of the stories told but it was nice to hear it MJ himself. I want to read another MJ book but I am not sure which one to choose. I don't want to read one of those bogus books written by people that will put anything out there and a bunch of lies just to make money. Anyone have suggestion?

disapointing
I read this book in one sitting. It's an easy read. MJ talks mostly about his professional work and the people who worked with him (Berry Gordy, Quincy Jones, etc...) and it is done in a fairly factual way.MJ is always gracious and is generous in giving credit to everyone who helped him -- even his father.

But I didn't feel he talked about anything else.At the end of the book, he adds some personal likes and dislikes. He touches on the effects of fame on his life. His great friendship with Liz Taylor takes up 5 lines.His friendship with Brooke Shields takes up less than 2 lines -- so I dont know where all the noise about how he said this and that about their relationship comes from.Clearly, he doesnt want to reveal anything that does not have to do with his work.

So, I am glad I read it, but I didn't come away with much more information about MJ.

But I will say, that there is a gentleness that comes through in what he says and in the way it was written.

Would I recommend buying the book ?hmmm, not so much.Get it from the library.

And I SOOO wish MJ was still with us.

Great Book
I'm Almost finished with the book. I just got it; find it hard to put it down. I miss Mj so much!... ... Read more

Product Description
Ebony Special Tribute, Michael In His Own Words, is a beautiful 100-page celebration of the life of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. Inside...5,000 words from Michael, including his last U.S. magazine interview, which was conducted by Ebony Magazine; Celebrity farewell essays from Quincy Jones, Berry Gordy, Ne-Yo and others; Memorable photos from the Ebony Magazine archives. Quantities of this Special Tribute Collector's Book are Limited...Order your copy TODAY!!! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (55)

Hard to get, but worth the wait!!!
I had a very hard time getting this book, but it was very much worth the wait!!!The photo shoot Michael did for Ebony is stunning.I also enjoyed reading what he had to say in his last interview.This book should be considered a collector's item.It was good to finally see a few different photos of Michael and to read his own words.Too many books are being thrown together since he passed with the same old photos and the same old stories.The only reason these people are putting books like this together is to make money off Michael.The Ebony Tribute does not fall into this category.If you are a fan of MJ's you must get this book.

Wonderful Tribute
I have read/looked at various tribute magazines to the King of Pop and this one is one of the best.I believe the cover is what grabbed me the most.It was a modern photo of him (not the typical 1980s pics) and he looked good.This photo gave us a review of what to expect inside.I realized this man's greatest achievements and popularity was in the 80s, but he was very active in the later decades.It was nice to read his last interview when he sounded more "real" and mature.I deducted one star for this reason.Ebony seemed to tease me at times.They had these really great small cover photos of MJ, looking very good!It made me want to buy those editions.I believe that may be intentional.Rare photos are rare.I believe Ebony has one of the best quality ones.I also loved the essays or comments from his past collegues.It's sad that Michael Jackson died.I grew up with him.As a child, MJ made me believe I was important, even though I never met him.

A beautiful memorial
I loved the ebony tribute to michael, it was great! I would definitely recommend it to anyone whose looking for a good book on his life without all the tabloid crap.

Beautiful Book!
My review will be simple.............BUY THIS BOOK BEFORE IT GOES OUT OF PRINT......OR YOU WILL MISS OUT ON A VERY BEAUTIFUL TRIBUTE BOOK OF OUR "KING OF POP" :)

"We Had Him..Beautiful...Delighting Our Eyes..."
The final footage of "Michael Jackson's: This Is It!" shows the legendary performer standing in a circle with his colleagues at the end of rehearsal,encouraging them, and telling them that they were "bringing love back into the world."
Whatever love the world may have been lacking was restored with the news of Michael's sudden departure from it on June 25, 2009.The unity, the reminiscence over the impact of his life, career, music, and humanitarianism, as well as the grief over one man's loss was more than palpable.
Having been around for all four decades of Michael Jackson's career, I have felta sense of sadness as well as reverence at his passing.I've been surprised at aspects of his life with which I was less familiar, and I've reviewed old footage of him with which I was more familiar in childhood.
Amid the guilded logo, this 100-page tribute comes to life. A photo from his last shoot for "Ebony" greets us, and we see a smashingly clad King of Pop, laughing as he stands with arms folded, and strands of hair shielding one of his beautiful, well-fringed eyes. I had felt pretty alienated when I initially saw the issue featuring photos from that session, thinking that he looked too flamboyant, effeminate, and eccentric, but have since regretted not having kept that issue, and am consequently very appreciative of the fact that this tribute contains his last-known interview.
The frontispiece shows 12-year-old Michael performing at the incipience of his storied career; the end piece shows his announcement of the comeback of which the world would be deprived.
But in between, we review a colorful visual adventure, featuring a charismatic and funkily costumed Michael on Ed Sullivan's stage with his brothers, wowing the crowd.
"Ebony" chairwoman and CEO, Linda Johnson Rice, initiates the remembrances by discussing the person she knew firstly as a highly celebrated 12-year-old peer group member on whom she, like millions, had a schoolgirl crush, and how "Ebony" charted the course of his life and career.
Harriet Cole discusses his final shoot, Reverend Al Sharpton praises the wayMichael shifted America's cultural dynamics(as he also did at MJ's public memorial service), and praised a formidable humanitarian stating:
"Donating hundreds of millions to charity, creating his own non-profit organizations and genuinely caring about state of humanity, Michael will and must be revered for his distinguished and rare character."
We sojourn past the 15 beautifully photographed covers of "Ebony" which Michael graced, view delightful family photos, a photo of the Neverland Ranch, and read about the journey of the impish little protege to the world class icon and humanitarian, courtesy of Suzanne De Passe, Berry Gordy, Aretha Franklin, Quincy Jones( who discusses the singer's taking his pet snakes to the studio with him, proving that, to some extent, he did earn the "weird" badge that was often ascribed to him), Jesse Jackson, who described Michael as "deceptively smart and strong" and as having " a heart full of love", Smokey Robinson, Ne-Yo, and Scott Poulson-Bryant, who had the pleasure of first interviewing Michael as a child at the time the star was rehearsing for the film, "The Wiz", all in counterpoint to Michael's own words.
We see him as the dynamic performer-at one point sharing the stage with his idol and mentor, James Brown-a style icon, and philanthropist. There are playful moments, such as a demure peek at his fans from a balcony, as he wrapped himself in the curtain of his room in a French hotel, and clasping the hand of an elegantly clad girl in Thailand.
I've observed his frequent close proximity to his brother, Marlon, the sibling closest to him in age, in many of the photos.
But the photo of MJ standing atop his SUV to greet well-wishers during his trial is the only major reference made to that controversial chapter of his life;A photo of a 2006 performance in London, in which he is once again surrounded by children as he leads in the singing of "We Are the World" shows the light coming back to his eyes when he could see people still believed in him.
What one is struck by are the photos of his tour of Budapest, which might have been unthinkable under the Cold War conditions of just a few years earlier, and of the photos of his visits in Africa, which always welcomed him.
There is a certain poignancy in the photos of Michael with his children, with their faces shielded from the world, but who are his greatest and most precious legacy.
The photos of those mourning and celebrating his life around the world are doleful, but stirring. It was a time to mourn, a time to dance, and a time to sing.
As the world fast approaches the 30th anniversary of the passing of another musical icon, John Lennon, the words of the fallen Beatle ring true for Michael as well: "And in the end, the love you take, is equal to the love you make."
Michael himself said, "If you enter this world knowing you are loved, and you leave this world knowing the same, then everything that happens in between can be dealt with."
This tribute to the King of Pop is a stirring reminder of why this man inspired love in spades! ... Read more

Product Description
From this book's first chapter: "To be able to float free, with gravity exerting no impact. To live in Neverland. To be idolized-to be loved-by millions around the world.

"These seem completely unreasonable dreams. But from a boy from Gary, Indiana, who was special from the first, they became more than dreams. They became fundamental needs. And they were achieved during a lifetime that was stunning in its highs and lows, and that was, ultimately, far, far too short.

"Far too short and, more sadly still, perhaps poised for a triumphant next chapter. We will never know."

While that is true-we will never know-we can revisit and celebrate that extraordinary life, and we do so in words and pictures in this special commemorative book. Although Michael Jackson lived just 50 years, he spent the great majority of that time in the public eye. We loved his as a boy, radiating joy and dancing up a storm in the Jackson 5, his falsetto tenor pouring forth from car radios coast to coast. We were subsequently thrilled by his reinvention as the biggest pop star on the planet, with "Billie Jean" and "Beat It" blasting from boom boxes around the world.

The best pictures from each era are here. As you would expect, LIFE magazine, then the country's preeminent photo journal, was onto the Jackson 5 story early-in fact, we put the family on our cover when Michael was still a lad. He made the cover several more times, and he allowed LIFE exclusive access to his private California sanctum called Neverland. We have combed through our archives and found all the famous shots as well as several surprises, including never-before-seen pictures that show the boy and then the man in an unguarded, personal way. Also, we have taken the best from the portfolios of the world's top rock 'n' roll photographers and created, we think, a complete picture of this endlessly compelling entertainer.

Michael Jackson was, like Sinatra, Elvis, the Beatles and few others, a celebrity who not only made us smile but changed the culture-who altered the way that we looked and behaved. In this book, we relive his thrilling life and times, which were our time too.

LIFE Magazine Chronicles Every Step of Michael Jackson's Career
(Click on each image below to see a larger view)

Michael the Moonwalker	Michael On Stage & Off	A Thriller Like No Other
Inside the Private World of Michael Jackson	Michael Jackson and Son	The Jackson Five with Mom and Pop

... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

MJ
Excellent photos from all his years. Lots of photos of him smiling. That's the way I want to remember him. Life was a good magazine and I used to subscribe to it before they folded.

Good Bio
Purchased this as part of my grandson's Michael Jackson memorabiliaB-day gift.
He is enjoying the pictures of Michael's youth and family life as well as seeing their childhood house. Also, it is interesting to note that at first I ordered it from one of my book clubs, only to be told it was out of stock, after they had held the order for several days.So of course I immediatly went to Amazon.com where I should have gone in the first place. It arrived in time for
the birthday party and I am greatly pleased with the book and the prompt service.

NOT Happy
This was ordered on 12/6/09 today is 12/21/09 and I still have NOT received it or had my emails returned.Don't be fooled by the Super Shipping!!

MJ LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL
I LOVE THIS ISSUE. IT WAS SHARP, HAS A HARD COVER AND IS DEFINETLY A KEEPSAKE

Life Commemorative: Michael Jackson
It's mostly about the Jackson 5 & The Jacksons.A lot of pictures of them.Focus' less on the solo performer, Michael Jackson.Nice picitures, hard back. ... Read more

Product Description
In 2000–2001, Michael Jackson sat down with his close friend and spiritual guide, Rabbi Shmuley Boteach, to record what turned out to be the most intimate and revealing conversations of his life. It was Michael's wish to bare his soul and unburden himself to a public that he knew was deeply suspicious of him. The resulting thirty hours are the basis of The Michael Jackson Tapes. There has never been, and never will be, anything like them.Amazon.com Review
In 2000–2001, Michael Jackson sat down with his close friend and spiritual guide, Rabbi Shmuley Boteach, to record what turned out to be the most intimate and revealing conversations of his life. It was Michael's wish to bare his soul and unburden himself to a public that he knew was deeply suspicious of him. The resulting thirty hours are the basis of The Michael Jackson Tapes. There has never been, and never will be, anything like them. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (228)

Michael Was Not Happy
I am half-way through this book. It is hard to stick with it because I find it kind of strange. Rabbi Shmuley got Michael talking about some things that he should have kept to himself.
Michael was so full of himself, during this time in his life, but still so insecure and so full of self-hatred at the same time. What can I say? I love Michael, he is the greatest entertainer that ever lived, but I also know that he was a tortured soul. So, so, so sad.

A typical MJ interview
This is the kind of book you don't necessarily have to read from front to back.I haven't yet.I looked for interesting topics and read that. I have beeen hopping around.The interviews remind me of the Bashir documentary in which MJ seems to be a bit dodgy and may or may not be completely open (whatever reasons he may have).Its still a puzzle, and this author seems to give us his perspective and opinion, but not necessarily knowing the answer.I still find MJ to be a complete mystery.I don't believe Rabbi Shmuley is his confidant, so I don't believe MJ revealed himself to him.Its interesting to see how MJ reacts to Rabbi Shmuley's questions.It seems like Shmuley is putting words in his mouth, and MJ says, "Yeah, that sounds good.OK."I've read that MJ doesn't like to argue, so him agreeing doesn't mean he agrees.Its still interesting to read.It offers us more clues to piece together, if we can figure out which information is true or just pure fantasy.

Another Worm Crawls Out of the Woodwork to Cash In
I made the mistake of buying this book without having read the reviews posted on Amazon.I paid $2.40 for the hardback (from Big Lots on clearance); and if I were not so proud, I should ask for a refund of this book of betrayal.Normally, I would donate my read books to the library, but this piece of trash isn't worth taking up shelf space - instead, it's going into the dumpster (but would I want to despoil our landfills with Schmuley's sanctimonious garbage?).Clearly, this rabbi had no comprehension of the depth of Michael's spirituality - if he had read "Dancing The Dream," Shmuley would realize that Michael was at a level of spiritual understanding, compassion, and love for humanity and nature that Shmuley could never be able to aspire to.Would YOU want Shmuley to be your confidante?Just another worm crawling out of the woodwork to cash in.

I am ashamed to say that because of my curiosity I bought this book
If you feel you must read this book, please do not puchase it new.Find a library copy or purchase a cheap used copy, but do not give Rabbi Shmuley even a penny.We've all heard about the vultures, leeches and mediocre advisors that magnetized around Michael Jackson.It's shocking to learn that a Rabbi would be included in this group.Rabbi Shmuley's running commentary shows him absolutely OBSESSED with Michael's fame and celebrity.He ultimately abandons Michael and stabs him in the back when his ego can't handle that he won't be allowed to manipulate Michael and ride Michael's coattails to fame. This Rabbi has absolutely NO QUALIFICATIONS to be counseling someone like Michael Jackson in the first place.Shmuley loves talking about his own television appearances and shamelessly plugs his own books.There is no doubt in my mind that Rabbi Shmuley's interest in Michael Jackson was in connection to his own RELENTLESS pursuit of publicity to enhance himself.The Rabbiclearly wants profit and recognition, while trying to convince you that his motivations are pure, it's pretty transparent that they are NOT.Michael comes across as very down to earth and definitely not interested in fame and celebrity.Michael's interest is in art and it's ability to heal the world.In truth, fame is to Michael what water is to a fish.It's just all he's ever known, and he is very realistic about the viscious downside of fame.Michael is so respectful and kind to Rabbi Shmuley and seems genuinely interested in learning from Shmuley's knowledge of the scriptures.This respect is definitely not reciprocated and that's an understatement.It becomes very clear as you read Shmuley's comments that he definitely did not have Michael's well being at heart.Shmuley has NO IDEA what Michael's artistic integrity is all about and he doesn't have the slightest clue that artists create for art itself, not for fame and celebrity which is Shmuley's big concern.That Michael Jackson wants to be loved is common to all human beings, not just Michael.Shmuley doesn't know that art itself heals the world, that's it's function and it is the art itself is that motivates people like Jackson, not money or fame.When Michael calls him out on getting out of line with his "advice", Shmuley's ego goes into a tailspin.He actually makes a big deal about a fax where he declines an invitation to one of Michael's performances, like a jilted lover!HA!It's laughable!Shmuley has no idea that he is conversing with one of the great artistic minds of all time.Not a clue.One of the most unintentionally funny moments in the book is when Rabbi Shmuley puffs himself up for having "purpose" in his life and outlines how he is going to help Michael have purpose!!!Not kidding!!!!Did it never cross his mind that Michael Jackson is the most accomplished artist of his time, one of the great geniuses of all time, and one of the greatest humanitarians to ever walk the planet???? Did he never see the way Michael brought all races, religions, nationalties, genders and age groups together in joy, song and dance???In a MASSIVE musical movement over the entire planet???Did he never hear the messages in any of Michael's songs???In a particularly cruel move, Shmuley continually hints that it might be true that MJ is sexual towards children, A FLAT OUT LIE.And the ultimate knife in his back.With a "close friend and spritual guide" like Rabbi Shmuley Boteach, who needs enemies???

***UPDATE*** I just reread the Afterword to the this book to see if I could find any possibility that Rabbi Shmuley might have made innocent mistakes.But I am afraid that it hit me even harder the second time around.I cannot believe that someone in a position of trust could be so malicious and irresponsible to another human being.To think that someone could befriend a Rabbi only to have them turn around and write such commentary immediately following their death in order to cash in on the media frenzy is just sickening to me.Anyone in a position of trust, such as clergy, a teacher or a counselor of any kind has no business making these kinds of remarks at anytime about anyone who has placed their trust in them.I consider Rabbi Shmuley Boteach to be MORALLY BANKRUPT.People who have studied Michael Jackson will immediately recognize that cruel commentary stems from the Rabbi's conceited ignorance and should not be considered factual in any way.I hope the Rabbinate will police their own profession and take action against Shmuley for what he has done.History will judge Rabbi Shmuley very very harshly.

Liked!
I purchased this book for my mother. So im writing this review on her behalf. She liked it. She thought it was interesting and exciting. She is reading it a second time. But keep in mind, she been a Jackson fan since he was little. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (4)

Outstanding
I can honestly say that I a am a late MJ fan, but the book is very, very good.This is the second book that I have purchased so far, but it was ten times better than the first.It is well written and it didn't dwell on the negative aspects of such a outstanding performer.
The pictures are fantastic.I would purchase another copy for the pictures alone.I have recommended this to five other Michael Jackson fans.It is well worth it.

mj books
I have bought a lot of books on Michael since his death.This one is really no different. It is nicely put-together and does have some different pictures.

Amazing Michael Jackson Photos
I bought this book and could not put it down.It has amazing pictures of Michael over the years.I have a great deal of books with pictures of Michael but there were some pictures in this book that I had never seen before.It has a nice hardcover that includes it's own pictures front and back (under the jacket).If you love MJ, buy this book.If you don't buy it anyway so you can see why we (his fans) love him so much!Good positive, non-judgmental narrative of his life, too.I love you Michael, King of Pop, King of Hearts, & Prince of Peace. Love you most!

For All Michael Jackson Fans.....
If you are a Michael Fan, then you will love this beautiful hardcover "through the years" tribute book. It"s loaded with pictures from the J5 years all the way through written memorials to Michael by fans after his tragic and early passing. It also has all dicography information in the back of the book. I have ALOT of books about Michael, but I have to say this is one of the best.....I love you Michael...may your brilliant light shine on ! ... Read more

Product Description
Arranged for Piano/Vocal/Guitar with Lyrics. Michael Jackson's album, Number Ones, features a new single "One More Chance." There are 17 more songs on the album and they are all among Michael Jackson's number one hits. Alfred Music Publishing proudly presents this greatest hits matching songbook that features stunning full-color photos of Michael and piano/vocal/guitar arrangements of all 18 songs. Titles are: Bad * Beat It * Ben * Billie Jean * Black or White * Break of Dawn * Dirty Diana * DonÂ’t Stop Â’Til You Get Enough * Earth Song * I Just CanÂ’t Stop Loving You * Man in the Mirror * One More Chance * Rock with You * Smooth Criminal * Thriller * The Way You Make Me Feel * You Are Not Alone * You Rock My World. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

MJ and piano fans will love this!
I purchased this for my 12-year-old daughter who loves piano and MJ.She was thrilled with this book.she has been taking piano lessons for about 5 years.I had to come up with some piano music for her for summer since our piano teacher is on maternity leave.I can't get her away from the piano.She just loves this book.She wants to play this all the time.It's great to see her with so much enthusiasm.I highly recommend this for intermediate to advanced piano skills.

A "must have" for real popfans
A very nice book for everyone who likes popsongs. Some songs are not too hard to play but a few are a bit difficult because there are a lot of flat's in it. But if you can play reading chordsymbols you will have a lot of fun with this book.

Great Book to Have
Purchased it for my daughter so she could play the songs on the piano.Boy was she in for a rude awakening, LOL!She is a beginning piano player so I have to play them for her, but it is still a great book to have.

Great book for those who love his MUSIC.
Nothing much to say - it is a book with the music notes for some of his best tracks. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review
Product Description
Photographer Todd Gray worked with Michael Jackson for several years before Jackson requested that he become his personal photographer, a relationship that would encompass the singer's performances with the Jacksons through the release of his smash solo albums Off the Wall and Thriller. This collection of unseen, intimate, and joyful pictures of Michael taken over a span of 10 years reveal him at home, with his family and fans, in career-making live performances, and the on the "Beat It" video shoot. A young black man not much older than Jackson at the time they met, Gray brings unique insights to his time with the singer, contributing stories and context to the images, presenting a rare, intimate portrait of Jackson at a creative peak as he grew from a brilliantly talented young man into a pop icon.

Customer Reviews (88)

A unique angle from which to take an interesting look at an interesting soul
Michael Jackson's death shocked the world. His talent was unmistakable. But his life was troubled. Understanding why Michael Jackson was who he was takes some effort.

This book gives a look at the young Michael. Even though we know what happens to him, the pictures give us a fascinating glimpse of a star emerging. There is a sense of hope and joy. Not tragedy.

A real treat for Michael Jackson fans.

Excellent
Excellent treasure trove of photographs and the stories behind them. A must have for any fan or anyone that appreciates a photographer with a good eye. I would love to see additional coffee table books by Todd Gray.

The Book Michael Jackson Before He Was King
Todd Gray was chosen for a dream job in 1979, become the personal photographer for Michael Jackson.He followed the King Of Pop during the rise of the star's career in the 1980's.Todd was there almost every step of the way to take photographs of important events in Michael Jackson's life.

What can you expect to see in this book?

How clear are the photographs of Michael Jackson?

Read On To Find Out!

The book opens up with a few full page photos of Michael Jackson.Then a four page introduction from Todd Gray gives some background about how he was recruited for this dream job.Throughout the rest of the book there are scattered descriptions of photos, about one for every ten pages of content.

My Favorite Photo In The Book
Ah, you have to realize that I relish that chance to rummage through a large coffee table book and pick my favorite photo. With this book, I have found that I change my opinion on a weekly basis.I attribute this to the art behind these photographs.They were all taken in a casual manner, like reality television today.As a result, you see the inner spirit of Michael Jackson.Page 30 to 31 is one massive photo taken of Michael while he was sitting on a chair.In the dimly lit room, he was thinking deeply and did not seem to notice Todd Gray.

Photograph And Printing Quality Of The Book
The 144 page, hardcover book is also quite large compared to most books that you can buy today.Measuring 11" wide and 9" long it has ample room to give you the ability to look at the photographs inside, of Michael Jackson's early years, in full detail.The only question remaining is whether they are overall of good quality and printed properly.Remember, many books on similar subjects are printed poorly and as a result lose significant detail.

Summary
I consider this book a real treasure to own.The photos of Michael Jackson in his prime are candid.You can see the beginnings of the trouble that will eventually haunt his soul later in life, here.Yet most of the photographs show a pop star that is enjoying the world around him.If you like his music and emphasize with his upbeat tone, you should buy this book today.

Loved the book, til it fell apart!!
I bought this book for my grandaughter's 11th birthday, and she loved it. But soon after she got it, 2 of the pages fell out!! She especially liked the picture of him laughing in his home theatre in Encino. They are really wonderful pictures, but the binding wasn't so great. Bind it better next time!!

'A Pic Is Worth A Thousand Words...'
Before He Was King is an inside view of Michael Jackson with captivating photos.Pictures of him seemingly finding solace in places where he was alone.Concert photo's were fantastic, caused my mind to wonder if some of the people in the pictures had this book.You could see the excitement in their faces they cheered at the concerts and were so happy just to be in his presence.His aura was sooo powerful, it was blatantly tangible.But in all of the glory, he was unable to find true happiness and acceptance of his natural gift.

Also shows struggle with he and family members as he separated himself for reasons beyond true explanation.I felt priviledged to be able to view photo footage that otherwise I may never have seen.I enjoyed viewing it with my children as they have become fascinated with his iconic music and imagery!A pic is mos def worth a thousand words!Michael Jackson was and will always be PHENOMENAL! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

This book will not only become a collectible, it is an excellent biography about Michael Jackson for the younger set!
Most high school talent shows can be a little blah at best.Someone may get up and dance a bit, play a musical instrument or sing a bit off key.The talent show held in 1966 at Roosevelt High School in Gary, Indiana was a bit different and on one level a history maker.A young boy named Michael got up on stage with his brothers and sang.He later said that "For him, singing was as natural as breathing."His parents Joseph and Katherine were musical so it only made sense that their children would inherit that love and some ability, but this boy had something special.It was obvious when he began to sing and moved to the beat that Michael Jackson was a child prodigy with enormous potential.Needless to say, the Jackson boys won that talent show.

You will read about the Jackson family and how they broke into the music world.Michael later claimed that his father was an abusive task master, but you will also read about how he worked to purchase instruments for them.Gladys Knight saw something in the group and claimed "she'd put in a good word for them with Berry Gordy, Jr., the owner of Motown Records."You'll learn how Michael learned to dance by watching the pros, how they got to perform at the Apollo Theater, how they got a record contract, you'll read about their appearances on the Ed Sullivan show, how thrilled Michael was to be the star of his own cartoon show, you'll learn about the Neverland Ranch, the scandal, his generosity, his children and much more!

This book will not only become a collectible, it is an excellent biography about Michael Jackson for the younger set.There are numerous photographs, both black and white and full color, many I had never seen, especially the earlier ones.I liked the way the book captured the essence of who Michael Jackson was without downgrading him for his fallibility.The scandals are mentioned, including the molestation charges, but no judgment is passed.This is a well balanced, well researched and impressively well written book.In the back of the book there is an index, a time line of important dates, and additional recommended book and website resources.As Berry Gordy once said, "He had a knowingness about him that was incredible."This is one book you really should consider for your shelves! ... Read more

Product Description
From famed celebrity biographer Darwin Porter, this is the most honest and journalistically important biography of Michael Jackson ever published, with a roster of literary reviews that outnumber and outclass any other MJ bio on the market. After its original release in 2007, it was widely reviewed as the most thorough and comprehensive biography of the superstar published anytime during the previous 15 years. Following the superstar's death in June of 2009, Porter edited and amplified his already controversial texts to include startling new information about The Gloved One, adding a final chapter and a post-mortem epilogue reflecting the mysterious circumstances surrounding Jackson's death and an analysis of its aftermath. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (21)

poor English, poor "documentation"
Porter is not a good writer at all, and because of this, it's difficult to get through the book, which is filled with choppy, small paragraphs, not always written in time sequence. The pace of the book feels like a stumbling journey through ahigh-schooler's report.

Unsubstantiated "facts" are the main meat of the tome; sensational stories are preceded by such credibility-shatterers as, "a source says..." "an ex-employee reports..." "a music industry source claims..." "one irate manufacturer said..." "Michael was said to have...""One reviewer said..." "Reportedly..."

So few of the "facts" and stories are documented with names or footnotes that it's evident from the start that what you're reading is -unless properly documented - is complete fiction. Whole conversations are shared; how does anybody share entire pages of dialogue and expect to be credible?

Should you be someone who has fun reading crap - as I sometimes am - this book is OK. If you're someone looking for well-documented pieces on Jackson, check out Taraborelli's fat biography, or something else. This is fiction, as far as I see it. Sort of fun if you can get past the poor writing.

the worst book I've ever read
This book was the worst book I have ever read. It is a one subject (whether Michael Jackson was gay)mess! Author doesn't claim validity for statements made and it is boringly repetitive. No one deserves this type of treatment in the guise of a biography. A total waste of paper and money

"Terrible Book On Michael Jackson Look Elsewhere"
I read many books about Michael Jackson because I loved what he did for music and he was a great person. Unfortunately this book is not what any fan wants to read and proved to be another bunch of lies and an attempt at getting money. I could stop right there but it would be too easy to say unflattering things about Darwin Porter's work "Jacko, His Rise and fall: The Social and Sexual History of Michael Jackson" without giving a deeper explanation. I should have known better the name alone Jacko is not respectful .The book starts with Michael's youth and seems quite positive at first and seemed like a good read. However, it didn't take too long for the author to give his annoying and unbiased comments on nearly every page, and then he comes up with tabloid subjects and he goes into each of them unsuccessfully trying to prove something bad about Michael.

I didn't like that author was focused on Michael's sexuality even at a very young age, after reading this book I can say that he clearly thinks Michael is homosexual and doesn't even make you think that he could be hetero for just one second. But he goes in details as he says writes like "Michael is a Jehovah's Witness and homosexuality is against his religion" and offers that Michael went to some bars in New York where he met homosexuals who were interested in him but he denied them because of his religion and he doesn't approve of their choice. He also writes that Michael might have been sexually abused when he was just a child and many other subjects without any true sources or much to prove that some of the things he wrote here were really said or true which is sad for him.

The only positive thing about the book is that it covers Michael's entire life from his childhood to adult, and that there are many, many pictures of the celebrities he mentions in the book so you have an idea of who said what according to Darwin. Not that it's exactly positive but it's the best thing about the book. There were not any pictures of Michael (except at the beginning of the book) though for a book in which he's the subject there aren't many. The book dates from 2007 but the 2009 edition has a new chapter after the death of Michael not that it matters much.If you're looking for collection of the tabloids subjects over the years, this is the one you're looking for but I don't know why you would want that unless you're not a fan of Michael. He writes that Michael is the one who was behind the story of the Elephant Man and wanted to gain extra publicity, while that may seem like an interesting theory he has NOTHING to demonstrate ANY proof at all! Oh and the author's adds in the end were terrible! I'm giving this a one star rating. I don't recommend it to any fans of Michael.

Just a compilation of tabloid rumors
I was hoping to read an objective book about Michael Jackson, not a compilation of tabloid gossip.The author seems obsessed with MJ "homosexuality" and doesn't leave any room for the possibility that he was a heterosexual man.There were several women in MJ's life and the most important for him were not even mentioned in this book.There's no cronological order in his story and he jumps from one subject to another which I found very annoying.What bothered me the most is the fact that the author doesn't give MJ any credit for hardly anything, and when he does, he does so reluctantly. This book is the typical fast-money-maker opportunistic publication. It seems like the author thought:"Whatever money I make out of it, is OK, I didn't have to make any effort writing it anyway, I just put all the tabloid garbage, mix it with a few real facts, and that's it."

His name is MICHAEL JACKSON not "jacko"!
ANY book that refers to Michael Jackson as "jacko" is not worth buying.
In my opinion, the only person who can write a legit biography, is the person themself.
Anyone looking for some FACTS and TRUTH about Michael Jackson, I highly recommend buying "Moonwalk" written by Michael Jackson.
You get to know the real him, minus the tabloid junk! ... Read more

Product Description
The King of Pop's sudden death on 25th June 2009 shocked the world, and a glut of hastily written biographies quickly followed, but this book is different: this book is a revised and expanded edition of the no.1 best selling Michael Jackson book on amazon.com, in the days and weeks following his passing.Now, in response to numerous requests from Michael Jackson fans around the world, Cadman & Halstead have completely revised and expanded their best selling 'For The Record'. As well as detailing the hundreds of songs Michael was involved with over the years, solo and with his brothers, the second editions also focuses on the King of Pop's albums, his home videos, his films and short films, his books and his chart successes, and it includes complete USA & UK discographies. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (25)

MJ
All the information on MJ's accomplishments are compiled nicely in this book.All info is right at your fingertips.A must have!

A perfect reference tool...almost
I agree with what most people say about how thorough this book is. It's obvious that the authors really put a lot of time and effort into compiling loads and loads of useful information for Michael Jackson, Jacksons and Jackson 5 music lovers and collectors.

I have two big complaints:
1. There are no track times listed for any of the songs and their multiple versions. Track times are vital for those who are trying to obtain all the songs and versions that are available.
2. Part 2 of the book, THE ALBUMS, gives no extra details about what version of each song is found on each album. You have to cross reference between part 1 of the book, THE SONGS, with part 2 in order to try to figure out where a certain version of a song can be found. However, sometimes it is still impossible to ascertain that information.

I know many people may find my complaints as overly picky. However, if track times and complete album track listings could be added to future editions, this book would be totally complete.

Wow!
This was a man who worked very hard for what he has accomplished in his life.It is no wonder that he was the greatest entertainer of all time.

The truth is in the transcripts....not media coverage
I just finished this book and I am very impressed.Yes, Aphrodite does surround the transcripts with "her" opinions and comments, but the transcripts really are the key to the truth.Her book is very well written, clear and easy to follow.I also read "Redemption" last week and between the two of them you will understand how MJ interacted with children and how unfortunately this led to easy prey for extortion.If you are interested in the facts, you must get this book.

Fantastic read
I've always been interested in knowing more about the songs of Michael Jackson & this book is clearly worth everything that it has helped me understand. This book has charted every song ever released or known to have recorded by Michael Jackson starting frm the early years. Very detailed information and nicely organised. A fabulous read!!! ... Read more

Product Description
The inside secrets of Michael Jackson's greatest records by the Grammy-winning engineer who captured and enhanced their sound. Multiple color photos of Jackson, producer Quincy Jones, and all the talents who collaborated to make pop history with Jackson's albums. Plucked from a job at legendary Universal Audio in Chicago, Bruce Swedien entered into a fruitful and historic 30-year relationship with producer Quincy Jones. That partnership culminated in the groundbreaking recordings of Michael Jackson, beginning with The Wiz, continuing with Jackson's breakout solo debut Off the Wall, and triumphing with Thriller, which revolutionized music and video and fixed Jackson in culture as the King of Pop. Now Swedien reveals the technical details of creating those albums (along with Bad, Dangerous, and HIStory) and offers personal remembrances and anecdotes about working with the pop icon. Swedien's book provides an insider's look that will thrill anyone interested in the nuts and bolts of hit making and the history of some of America's most influential recordings. * Large collection of photographs from Michael Jackson recording sessions * Forewords by producer Quincy Jones and writer/producer Rod Temperton ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

truly inspiring
This is a MUST READ book for all musicians and anyone who is sincerely interested in Michael Jackson's work.It gives a inside glimpse into the minds of three true creative geniuses, Michael Jackson, Quincy Jones and Bruce Swedien.I was simply blown away by the concepts and ideas presented here and I will never listen to another recording in the same way.People will be studying Jackson's records for centuries to come.I am grateful that Bruce Swedien took the time and energy to get this information down and that he is so generous in revealing the thought processes that went into these works of art.This book and "Make Mine Music" are some of the most inspiring music lessons I've ever had.Not only do I listen to recorded music differently after reading this, but my concept of all music performance is changed forever.JACKSON FANS:EVEN IF YOU ARE NOT A MUSICIAN OR ENGINEER, BUY THIS BOOK, YOU WON'T REGRET IT!

Hardly Anything About Michael Jackson
Billed as a tell all about recording with MJ but there's not a whole lot about MJ in the book. The focus is very much on Bruce Swedien and how great his wife and dog are. It's obvious it was written before Michael's death and then released after his death to cash in on the publicity. It's the same repetitive info and the writing and editing are poor. It will be of interest to recording engineers and a bit to the most ardent MJ fans. It's a shame it wasn't edited better and the focus wasn't a bit more on The King.

Swedien discusses technical work about MJ's albums
Bruce Swedien has a long career in recording production and engineering. He spends a lot of time detailing microphone and mixer desk layouts in this book. There are some tidbits about Michael Jackson, but the title is misleading. When you start reading the book, you think, cool, this is going to tell me a lot about MJ and how he worked.

Well, the book does inform the reader about Michael's hard work and desire for that "perfect" album every time he records. The book does talk about silly incidents and tender notes that the genius entertainer participated in and left behind. But, if you are looking for a book that is predominately about Michael -- this is not it.

Since Swedien worked with tons of artists, some well-known and some not so well-known, the book tends to jump around between Dixieland, Jazz, orchestral productions, Michael Jackson's albums and movie work, George Benson, Paul McCartney, and other artists he produced.

There are many sentences repeated throughout the book. However, for MJ fans, you can never hear enough good things about Michael. Bruce credits him with passion and drive, stating routines Michael performed before and during recording every album they worked on together. Some of the details are quite interesting, like the drum stand.

But there is so much technical information that unless you are a sound tech, you will find yourself skimming the pages looking for Michael's name, and then reading just those parts of the book.

That's not to say that Swedien's book is not important or that he is not important to the music industry as a whole. Quite the contrary, Swedien has definitely left his mark and continues to be an innovative persona in music production.

There are 8 pages of color photos of Michael Jackson during various phases of his career which makes this a nice book to have if you have everything else written about MJ.

Professional Audio Engineer's view - not a gossip book
For those that don't get this book - you were seeking Michael Jackson gossip, you were seeking insights into Michael Jackson's life and Mr. Swedien is too much of a professional, respected Michael Jackson too much, and has the highest regard for Michael's talent and work ethic.Mr. Swedien would never write anything more than his true experience with the King Of Pop as a professional engineer, and his relationship with Michael Jackson was and is something Mr. Swedien cherishes to this day.

If you are seeking information or clues about Michael Jackson's life don't look here.If you want to know how Michael Jackson's sound became THE album that sold millions of records throughout the world, and how Mr. Swedien helped create that sound then by all means read the book.People come from all over the world to partake in Mr. Swedien's workshops and learn his thought process to put the best possible sound out there.Don't believe me?Look up Mr. Swedien's bio and see the greats he has worked with.Michael Jackson was not the only recording artist that he worked with, and continues to work with the greats of today.

Quincy Jones and Bruce Swedien have been good friends for many years, prior to Michael Jackson recordings.It is no shock that the two would have the same mind set as to their view of Michael Jackson.I think its admirable that these two gentlemen are still good friends today, and still keep in touch.(But if those of you had done your research prior to buying/reading the book - you would know that - I guess there are still people out there that do not educate themselves when buying products, including books)

In the Audio/Sound Engineering world Bruce Swedien is known as THE man that changed recording sound with Michael Jackson's albums, primarily "Thriller".His studio, his knowledge is sought after by studios throughout the world.

For those that were disappointed in this book - go read the National Enquirer, or Star.Those might fulfill your need to know half truths or gossip.If you want to know how a sound was created that changed the world and became the world's largest selling album of its time - have a piece of that studio history - buy the book.If you aren't interested in how that came about, then as I stated above, go read a gossip rag.

Written by a master engineer FOR engineers
Bruce Swedien is a genius in the studio!!The results show in how the music he has been involved in has impacted pop culture and, indeed, the world!It is blessing that he took the time to put pen to paper and share some of his remarkable behind the scenes insight and techniques with those of us who value his amazing experience.Thank you Mr. Swedien. ... Read more

Product Description
One day I met an extraordinary man. Two shocking words came over the television when he died and suddenly Michael Jackson was no longer bizarre.Of all the books written about Michael none told the real story of what was going on.This book removes the labels, the lies and mystery of Michael'slife. This book will introduce you to the beautiful being that was the real Michael Jackson.This book will shock you and might make you cry.You will finally understand what Michael was really saying.It will surely open your eyes to the secret that kept Michael caged and in what he called "prison" all of his life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Serious, believeable professional theory
As a mental mealth nurse, I found this book to be a serious, thoughtful and well-discussed theory of the underlying reason for what made Michael Jackson who he was in many aspects both public and private.What is shocking is that it was never recognized or spoken about before his death!Please overlook the amateurish-looking, confusing cover; that is this book's only drawback.

Interesting theory....but
Unfortunately this book is loaded with nothing but speculation. I have been an MJ fan since we were both little children and I first saw him on Ed Sullivan. I have followed his career, extensively. I would like nothing more than to know for certain, what made him tick. But the truth is as simple as DNA. The man was multi-faceted and complex...a modern day Mozart. But no one is writing about Mozart anymore. There simply isn't any money in it.

I could, I suppose, cash in on his legacy and write my own book..come up with all sorts of 'reasons' for who he was. However, morally, I can't be like so many other vultures that picked at him when he was alive and scrouge for morsels now that he's gone.

For me, this book was sweet but nothing but fiction. True fans need to take it with several grains of salt....or better yet, save their money.

Interesting theory
As a medical professional, I undersand the views of the author.It all makes me so sad and I can't say that it is a "feel good" book, but I will read it again (and again).I love MJ for what he was trying to do for the people of the world and our planet.

A must read for all Michael fans
I have just spent the past couple of hours reading this book and it is one that all Michael fans need to read.If what the author says about the right-brain and left-brain is true it will explain everything!Michael was not capable of hurting another human being espically a child.They were everything to him.I believe that the majority of Michaels problems in relating with others really started with his treatment by his father when he was a child himself.He was not capeable of doing to others what had been done to him!He was a kind and loving person and the world is poorer for having lost him.I play his music everyday and pray for his spirit everyday also.I also agree that his 3 children should have been continued to be raised as he was raising them.His mother is doing her best, but I think he would be upset to see how it is now with the 3 children he so loved.

More junk, junk, junk about Michael Jackson
Oh, great.Another "tell all" book by someone who never met Michael, never met anyone who knew Michael, never even saw Michael in concert, but has "evaluated" all the ugly press about Michael and has come to the conclusion that is this book.In several volumns, too!Egads.

Spare us, please.Amazon needs to add minus stars to its rating system.Good thing Amazon has such a generous refund policy.You can get your fifteen bucks back.Sorry about your time wasted.Can't ever get that back. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (4)

excelent
Hi...I wanted to tell you that the book arrived earlier than expected, that made me very happy, this well only they did something worn at the tips, but all the rest .. excellent condition

Thanks, see you later..

A very average Michael 'tribute' book
'Michael Jackson: The King of Pop 1958 - 2009' is a fairly average coffee-table book on Michael. Like many of the tribute books that flooded the market following Michael's untimely passing, this book doesn't do him the proper justice he so overwhelmingly deserves. Very few tribute books properly canvass his incredible life in its entirety - from his music, entertainment achievements, tireless humanitarian and charity work and role as a father - in a respectful and dignified way. This one tends to stick the the usual facts about his achievements as an entertainer, chronicling his successes album-by-album before ending the book with a section on the world's reaction after June 25th 2009. Unfortunately this book slips into old, tiresome territory in parts, playing up the so-called "eccentric" aspects of Michael (which, for anyone in the know, were the figment of the media's imagination). On one page the author actually goes as far as to say that Michael's life could be broken into three stages - precocious young talent, worldwide superstar and then 'Wacko Jacko'. Any tribute book which includes a moniker which Michael himself found tremendously hurtful is an indication that the book draws more from the tabloid media history of Michael, rather than the real one.

This book will not provide true fans with any new information or photographs. It appears to be targeted towards those with a casual interest in Michael who are after a very basic, generic overview of his life. It does not differentiate itself from the hundreds of other similar works that are currently available for purchase. A disappointing book.

A little disappointed
I just recieved this Michael Jackson book Michael Jackson: The king of pop 1958-2009. The cover is beautiful. I have almost all the books on Michael Jackson, but this coffe table book, is disappointing. Its just another book, with all the same pictures. I really feel I should not have ordered it.

Great!
I bought this book at amazon.uk. I've finished reading it and am very pleased with it.Great pictures and pretty accurate information on MJ's incomparable musical legacy. Higly recommended! ... Read more

Product Description
From his youth as a prodigious talent in a gifted musical family driven by a visionary father, it was apparent that Michael Jackson was destined for fame and stardom. But his emergence from the Jackson Five in the 1970s and his explosion as a solo act in the 1980s skyrocketed him to a magnitude of super stardom that few people in history have attained. His ability to write and play music, sing, and dance vaulted him to the top echelon of musical artists--and his tragic and untimely death now guarantees his immortality in pop culture alongside the likes of Elvis and Princess Diana.

This lavishly illustrated book provides an unprecedented glimpse of the fascinating and often misunderstood life of Michal Jackson, and chronicles a career filled with triumph and tragedy that placed him alongside Presidents and Queens, and endeared him to millions of fans worldwide. For any fan of Michael Jackson or his music, this is must-have keepsake. For those who have been surprised by the outpouring since his tragic death, this book explains why he will forever be the King of Pop. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

All Things Michael
What can I say? I enjoy looking at pictures of, and reading articles about, Michael Jackson. I have been a fan of his from the beginning, especially when they became the Jacksons and when Michael went solo. If you love Michael, you will appreciate this book.MRS BWMN...

Nice Pictures

This book, once again, has most of the generic information on Michael Jackson that is in all of the other similar books.The pictures, however, are closeups of pictures most everybody has seen, but they are large and beautiful.It's nice to be able to see the closeups.

I have several books on MJ now, and beyond the usual accounts of his childhood and such, you don't find many of the books that have recently been published to say anything much different.Now I'm on the hunt for books that were written during the times of the events that they discuss (1980's and 1990's).You get a different view and sometimes a whole new perspective.

One of my favorites!
Have you ever liked Michael Jackson or read one of his stories? If so then you should read one of his life story called "Michael Jackson: the One and Only". This story tells all about his life like what he did when he was young, when he started singing and when his albums came out. My opinion about this book is that it was awesome because it tells mostly about his life and some people would like to know a little about his life besides being a singer. This book doesn't really have a setting. The characters are just Michael Jackson and his family.

This book will blow your mind because it has amazing and shocking things you might not know. Some are what you might already know. When I read this book I didn't know things that happen to him. This book has amazing pictures of his brothers and him together, with the people he worked and sang with. If you like to read about people life like an autobiography then I would recommend you to read this story about "Michael Jackson the One and Only". I would rate this book a 9 because somethings I didn't like how he was treated. If you want to know what happened to him then read this story.

Michael Jackson: The One and Only
I received the books in a timely fashion and in excellent condition as promised.I would definitely purchase from this vendor again.I had purchased one copy of this same book at Sam's Club for twice the price. I am a school librarian at a midwestern inner-city elementary school.This is the only Michael Jackson biopic that has content that is acceptable for my students' age level.I now have five copies of this book and cannot keep them on the shelves.My students are reading something that interests them - I cannot thank you enough for offering them this opportunity.

MJ the best
this book is beautifully laid out and a very nice and cheerful tribute to the wonderful king! ... Read more

Product Description
As fans of entertainers our voice is often overlooked. We are passed of as simple fans who really don't know to much. The media, with all their experts, reports, opinions, and speculations are often times not the truth. For the first time the fans of Michael Jackson will speak out. False reports and rumors are exposed in this book and the Author provides in depth look at the media theories and speculations. The fans finally have a book that expresses what they know to be the truth about The Icon of Music Michael Jackson. The Author takes you through Michael Jackson life from the viewpoint of a fan. Backed by intense research and interview from noted film-maker and defense witness for Michael Jackson Larry. Nimmer who also wrote this about the book. "You've done excellent research and there were some things that I learned that I didn't know. It was interesting what you had to say about the accusers and about his dad, Joe Jackson. I liked your comparison that Americans will sleep with animals in their bed but they are not accused of bestiality . . . good comparison . . . You've presented a convincing story about people who fabricated stories for personal gain, including the media, at the expense of Michael Jackson . . . great job and very interesting." Larry Nimmer ... Read more

Customer Reviews (21)

Micheal Jackson The book the media doesn't want you to read
Heartfelt words from a true fan, but difficult to read at times because of the poor gammar and punctuation. Wish someone would help this man to correct these errors. Overall it was interesting reading that I think many fans can relate to. I would recommend it to true fans. Micheal was never less than a good person. R.I.P.

Michael Jackson: The Book the Media Doesn't Want You to Read
It is appreciated whenfans write of the loyalty they hold for Michael Jackson and they are correct that he truly is amazing--I like to use the present tense because his understanding far surpasses his musical talent.The book, however, didn't reveal anythingthat the media didn't want us to know with the exception of this author's perception and much of the world would say, "Good job," but nothing new was revealed even in his opinions as certainly,the majority of Mr. Jackson's fan base already had those beliefs and would agree whole heartedlywith him.Again, however, an author has to be extremely careful in using his/her study to correspond his beliefs as beingfactual to the subject. My question is what new information was revealed with the exception of the author's beliefs?No doubt, something about the motives of Michael Jackson's actions but most readers already know this as Michael stated them many timesIn truth, we never know what is going on in the deepest part of an other individual's mind, therefore, you must all go to the source which in this case, would be Mr. Jackson but he is residing on a higher plane and, therefore, not comment on them.The text didn't address the title as most of the populace who followed Mr. Jackson's career already arrived at the author's conclusion.

I believe that the author took pains in writing his tome but, in truth, nothing new was revealed to the reader--just confirmation of the author's and most of Mr. Jackson's fans, beliefs. I do, however, applaud his devotion, and intention and time manifesting his book.I enjoyed reading his positive opinions and loyalty to one of the most talented and giving individuals of our time.

Thank you Shawn
Shawn, thank you for being a loyal fan to Michael and writing the truth.The media has made a mockery of Michael's true legacy and image.He gave so much to us, and he was repaid by the media and his accusers with terrible scandal which ruined his life.We, as fans, love to read the good in him, not the bad which is always out there from the media.Great reading for every MJ fan!

the book the media doesn't want you to read
It is good for a change to see a positive book on Michael Jackson. The drawings from the fans are amazing. There were things I learned from reading this book about MJ. Well worth the price.

Was there an editor???
If it was just an occasional grammatical error in the book, it would be okay. But this one was really bad and makes me question the reliability of the publisher. I did like much of what the author said. The only thing I take exception to is his comment about Joseph Jackson's treatment of Michael. He mentioned that LaToya was the only other person in the family that mentioned abuse. Wrong! Both Janet and Marlon have mentioned the abuse that Joseph inflicted on Michael. In fact Marlon was very graphic. Also, the people who are defending Joseph are calling Michael a liar. Also, when Joseph abused is children it sounds like he was in a rage.That's someone out of control and taking it out on small children. It doesn't sound to me like someone disciplining his children in order to better their living situation as he has claimed. Other than that I give this three stars because the author's heart was in the right place, and for the sake of Michael's legacy, I appreciate it. ... Read more