Product Description

Customer Reviews (3)

Disappointed
This book has no heart. It is written as a compilation of every news tidbit ever published about Michael Jackson with no flow towards the heart of the man.It not only reports the facts, but repeats fiction as well, with no attempt to distinguish between the two.Some accolades are given for his best performances and records and yet even then there is no heart to the praise.I would not recommend this book unless you are just interested in stringing together a bunch of events and accusations in a timeline.

Mismarked by Society
Michael Jackson Legend by Chas Newkey-Burden was in my opinion a good but very sad book. It was about the life of Michael but was brief. It starts where he was born in Gary Indiana. They lived in a very small house. All of the boys slept in one room. The home they lived in still stands.
It talks about how his brothers started singing and formed a group.One day Michael got up and just playing around sang a song and his mother thought he sounded like an angel. When his father Joe came home from work that night Katherine had Michael sing for him. It was decided he had to be a part of the group.
The Jackson 5 was formed and what their father did to them was deplorable! They were children! When Michael and his brothers came home from school they immediately had to start practicing their singing and dancing. Their father pushed them so hard their childhood was gone. If they did something wrong such as sing out of key as Michael often did (he was very young) his dad would lock him up in a cupboard.
When they started to go on the road to play in strip clubs and dives their father would bring women back to their room and sleep with them in front of the boys. This traumatized Michael. He knew it was wrong and he felt so sorry for his Mom.
As Michael grew his brothers would tease him and tell him he was looking more like their father every day. Michael hated his father! This is when he started getting plastic surgery done. He swore he would never be anything like his father.
As he grew older however he also started to have strange relationships with older women such as Diana Ross and Elizabeth Taylor and with younger boys such as Jordan Chandler and Macaualy Culkin. There really was never anything said of the relatonships with Diana or Eilzabeth but with the boys?
Macaualy states nothing inappropriate ever happened between him and Michael. He admits he even slept with him. However Jordan states that Michael did things to him. There was a huge court case that ruined Michaels life over this (instigated by his Mom)and probably for the most part his career. Jordan's Mom is a person that files different lawsuits against different companies and people to get money. How sad!
This took such a toll on Michael. Was this fact ever made public? No!! People to this day think he was a pervert.
It also talks about his marriages to Lisa Marie Presley(quick, secret) and Debbie Rowe(mother of two of his children) and his three children. Lisa Marie and Debbie remained friends with Michael until his death. His children were protected and well cared for. Michael was a great father.
I think Michal Jackson was an entertanier that will never be surpassed. He was marked by society as a pervert by a family that is known for filing lawsuits. This caused undue stress and depression that eventually killed the greatest entertainer of our time.

My favorite
I have ordered and read many many books about Michael Jackson and this one is by far my favorite. ... Read more

Product Description

No other singer, living or dead, has such a great impact on the world music lovers as Michael Jackson left. He did what others may have never dreamed of. Michael Jackson was the living icon for millions of music lovers and dancers all over the world, whether it be the slums of Bombay or the posh corridors of Hollywood concert halls. He will be remembered for ages to come.

Product Description
IS THERE A PATH TO THE SOUL OF EVERY SPHINX? What world did Michael Jackson live in? For him, from an early age, developing his creativity was a matter of life and death. To survive, he invested all of his energy in building a mental fortress. The price he paid was loneliness. Then he added another shield, a media persona. There was no going back. He kept sinking into his fantasy world.A common mistake when dealing with Michael Jackson is to only rely on facts. The trouble is, facts don't fit in a fantasy world. That's why this book is different. Its purpose is to understand Michael Jackson from the inside out.As a child, did you ever: Want to be the perfect kid to feel loved? Try to think about something very hard to make it happen? Dream of being the son of a king? If so, then your memories will help you grasp who Michael Jackson really was. Because as he grew up, he kept those mindsets alive. As a result, his intimate world was weird, intricate and challenging. But there is a path to the soul of every Sphinx. Piercing the wall of the legend with a referenced analysis of his career and personal life, Backdoor to Neverland proposes a new and original exploration of Michael Jackson's core. And - surprisingly enough - with the King of Pop, beneath every stone that you flip there is a golden nugget.# The Thriller video, decoded # The oxygen chamber, a portal to Michael's fantasies # Elephant man and the legacy of P.T. Barnum # The Mozart of denial # The meaning of the glove and of the plasters # In love with the number 7 # The Neverland ranch, a personal Alcatraz # Peter Pan for ever # Love as an awful adventure # The nose, battlefield of the self # King of Pop, a virility issue # How did Michael's universe protect him during the 2005 trial? # Michael and Elvis, same in birth and death? # The logic behind Michael Jackson's fatherhood. # The Moonchild Mystery: was Aleister Crowley, the Satanist, an inspiration for Jackson? # ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

The worst book about Michael I've ever read
This book is not worth one Cent.
Mr. Gautier is just another author, who tries to make money with Michael Jackson.
Mr. Gautier actually never met Michael Jackson or did even talk to him. He is just quoting other authors like R.Taraborrelli or Rabbi Boteach and tries to show Michael Jacksons behavior, actions and personal statements in a "psychological" light!! He does that in a very unprofessional and disrespectful manner. This man has absolutely no professional background an substance to write a book under the expression term of "psychology". The book is full of false and malicious remarks and interpretations of Michael Jackson life. Mr. Gautier has the same intention like Martin Bashir, to make Michael Jackson look like a weird and mentally ill personality.
This book has definitely no scientific or akademic character and should be taken from the market. It is complete garbage.

The innacuracies of Michael Jackson continue
This so called psycho-author wanna be doesn't know Michael at all if he's writing his book this way. He' doesn't know the facts and definately didn't know how Michael felt inside and out. This authour has no clue what Michael went through and experienced, I have more of an idea because I lived a silmilar life as Michael. It's tough having a strict parent who likes to use the belt, I should know, been there done that. Rehersals to get it right before a performance can be gueling, I should know, did it for over ten years, yes it's alot of hard work but at the end during the actual show can be alot of fun because you get a reaction from the audience, an honest one at that, yes, standing ovations are the most rewarding, I got to experience that when we had company from Japan to see me and another girl do our acrobatic routines, I was a contortionest, where you're really limbered. Oh yeah, when I started in that dance studio, Michael was coming out with his first Album with his brothers. But because of my dancing and other talents, I was the target of student ridicule because they, the students, didn't understand my world.I get that. So I was considered the weirdo of the class of coarse until a school assembly one day came to be and after my solo dance using acrobatics suddently gained popularity for me and the name calling stopped. But now everybody wanted me to sign their school annuals, people I didn't even know, but it was fun. And that's all I'm going to say for now. But as a start, whether you're popular in school or in the world, there's always those who constantly criticize you for your indifference or their simply just jealous of your talent, who you are makes them look bad. Michael was very shy, as was I, there's alot in comming we both have but would take up alot of space,but I just wanted to point out that people or authors really need to know who Michael was before trying to write a book about him just to cash out on him. So shame on the author who wrote this book, I will not be purchasing it anytime soon. I feel that it is a disgrace not only to Michael but to his family and an insult as to how Katherine raised her children. I gave it a one cause those are the only choices given but if you ask me, I give this book a fat O or a fat F. Sorry, but the author needs to get his facts straight before trying to write a book on Michael when the fans all know better.
My love to your Michael and the family
Patti/kitten l.o.v.e. (hello Randy) I'll listen if you write.

Right approach.
Author trys to get inside the head of Michael Jackson,and is quite convincing in his approach to understand the complex mindset of the king of pop.Some of the chapters are quite vague and do not throw up as many answers as I would have liked still worth a read.

don't waste your money on this book, it's inaccurate and rubbish
This book is proof that a little knowledge is a very DANGEROUS thing.The author works in marketing and has a sociology degree.He is in WAY OVER HIS HEAD trying to write about music and art and the way that artists evoke archetypal imagery in their work.Clearly Mr. Gautier doesn't have the brain power to keep up with the King of Pop, who was a master at the use of unconscious epic themes.The conclusions he draws are downright ridiculous, while the correct answers are right under his nose.It's really sad that he makes disparaging remarks about Jackson due to his own ignorance about what Jackson was truly expressing in his work and humanitarian efforts.For example, he was unable to understand the HIStory teaser as being presented from the TRANSPERSONAL ARCHETYPAL realm, NOT the egoic personality realm.Jackson was evoking the archetypal power of love, NOT his own personality.Let me spell it out for you the way Michael Jackson constantly did (but some still didn't get it)L.O.V.E.Yes, he was talking about L.O.V.E. in all its power and glory.He was not talking about himself, but evoking an archetypal image (Michael) and playing that role.He also takes a swipe at Jackson for wearing the military jacket at the We Are The World taping, not realizing it was there to evoke that same image, the field commander in the army of goodness and love, expressing the power of love and it's inherent strength to overcome suffering and evil.Genius on the part of Jackson.It's pretty bad when someone has to say something negative about an incredibly beautiful project that provided money and relief to so many suffering people and was such a heartfelt gesture for good.It's also unbelievable to me that he fails to credit Jackson for succeeding in breaking down all barriers of race, religion, nationality, gender and age bringing people together to sing and dance in joy through the use of his imagery and deeper meanings. Throughout the book this non-performing, non-creating, non-musical author fails to understand what music and art of this level are all about.You will not gain ANY insights into Michael Jackson by reading this book.But you will gain a great deal of insight into what Yves Gautier projects onto Michael Jackson, therefore revealing what Yves Gautier's power and ego struggles are.Which isn't that interesting.I'd rather read about Michael Jackson who did so much good for the world, but people like Gautier are apparently too blind to see it.

a absolutely waste of time.
It's quite obvious that the author knows nothing about Michael Jackson.

You think the Jackson family is exploiting Michael Jackson? Buying this book is even worse.

This book should be called "Backdoor to exploiting Michael Jackson", because this is exactly what it is.

This is yet another "author" trying to cash in on the Michael Jackson name. ... Read more

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

Customer Reviews (2)

M J book
There were a lot of facts in this book that I haven't seen in other books.

Nice Photos but not up-to-date with MJ's career
This publication has some great photos which makes it worth having for your MJ collection, but just be aware that it is a 2002 publication so does not have anything leading up to the announcement in London of the "This Is It" concerts nor Michael's travels and charity work in the years between.Still, it's nice to look through.For the definitive guide check out Adrian Grant's up-dated (2009) edition of Michael Jackson: A Visual Documentary The Official Tribute Edition which is a MUST for any MJ fan.Adrian gets it right!
... Read more

Product Description
Brings you right into Michael's heart and into his home, where you'll visit Neverland and learn about the secrets of his childhood. This INTERNATIONALLY BEST SELLING BOOK chronicles Michael Jackson's interviews with major talk show hosts and leading magazines, such as: Oprah Winfrey, Dianne Sawyer and Barbara Walters, USA Today, Vibe Magazine; and lists his songs, lyrics and films. Michael Jackson: King of Pop also features a 16-page color insert.

TELLS IT ALL!

This tell-all book includes chapters, such as: "Michael and His First Wife Lisa Marie", "Michael and His Second Wife Deborah Rowe", Michael in the Face of Negative Press", "Song Lyrics, Awards, Achievements and Films".

As a huge Michael Jackson fan, author, Jel Lewis (Jones) wanted to do something special and give something back to the King of Pop. Her gift to him is this positive book about his life and his music career. According to Ms. Lewis (Jones), "I have admired and adored Michael Jackson from the first time I heard his name and listened to his music. I have never been more fascinated by an entertainer before or since. I have always wanted to meet him and get the opportunity to shake his hand for bringing so much love into the hearts of so many." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (20)

Excellent !!!
Very nice and warm hearted book of Michael Jackson. I read a lot of book of MJ, but this one is filled with his beautiful words.
amazing! and totally awesome!
it's a great value!

Add this to the set of quality publications on Michael Jackson
It's always great to find accurate information about Michael Jackson instead of the garbage written by people like Halperin.This book presents the facts, not the untruths from people that are writing for the Almighty Dollar.Thanks to Lewis for getting this published; I'm thankful to now have found this book from another seller listed here on Amazon.The copyright date lets me know that it's not from someone interested in now cashing in on Michael's untimely death.2005 was a tough year for Michael so I'm glad this author understood it was time to put together a book that more accurately represents this incredible human being.

Very well written....an awesome buy!!
Ms. Lewis does an excellent job with this book.I really enjoyed it and appreciated that it was clean; no trash written here!If you are a MICHAEL JACKSON fan, this book is for you.I promise you will enjoy reading it.

Michael Jackson, theKing of Pop: The Big Picture-- The Music! The Man! The Legend! The Interviews: an Anthology
I like this book because a lot of it is actual passages spoken by MJ. I plan to donate my MJ books to the local library after I've read them. It is a way to get out that he was innocent and that his kind of entertainment talent only happens once. I am a new fan; post MJ's death. To keep his legacy alive we need to spread the word. I'd like to see a book dedicated soley to MJ's humanitarian deeds. He was such a loving and caring person.

Good Book, But Some Inaccurate Information
I really appreciate how the author clearly showed what a wonderful person that Michael was and as a die hard fan of his, I really am glad to read a very positive account of his life, words and deeds.I too, enjoyed the interviews and the few colorful pictures that were in the book.

I was disappointed that the author has some incorrect information and omissions from her facts.I have been reading everything I can get my hands on about Michael in books, his websites throughout the world and interviews and I am being quite an expert about him because I love him so much.In her beginning summary about his life, she skips a lot of information.While I realize that she cannot write everything because it is a summary, one or two additional lines here and there would have given a more accurate timeline and account of the facts.

For instance on page 5, second paragraph from the top, she says, " As the Jackson 5 started showing less than impressive record sales in the mid-70's, Michael's solo career was put on hold for a while, and he continued with the group after they were reborn as the Jacksons in 1976.And he re-entered the public eye with a starring role in the film musical The Wiz, collaborating on the sound-track album with Quincy Jones.Their partnership was renewed in 1979 when Quincy Jones produced "Off the Wall," a startlingly successful collection of contemporary soul material that introduced the world to the adult Michael Jackson."There is a lot of missing information here.She leaves out the fact that the Jacksons left Motown to sign with CBS records because they wanted more artistic freedom to write and produce.Their name became "The Jacksons" not just simply because they decided to become reborn, but because Motown legally kept their original name "The Jackson 5" after the split.Michael was the one chosen to break the news to Barry Gordy that they were leaving the company.It does not take long to explain that and these are critical pieces of information.That is just one example.

On page 69, there is clearly a MAJOR error in her song lyrics chapter. She has the title for "Beat It"-Rap by Vincent Price.Everyone knows that Vincent did the rap in Thriller.That is too big of a mistake. I don't have time to write about the other mistakes, but you can see what I mean.

I would suggest to the author that you re-edit the book and have it republished.

Otherwise, I enjoyed your favorable story about Michael, but please be accurate. No offense to you!! So many facts have been reported incorrectly about him and I don't believe that this was deliberate on your part. His life was so fascinating and it take a lot of time to research for accuracy, but I think that he was worth the time to do it. He was very much a perfectionist and he would want to be recorded accurately. ... Read more

Product Description
Geraldine Hughes comes forth to set the record straight about what really happened behind the scenes in the 1993 child molestation case against Michael Jackson. In Redemption: The Truth Behind the Michael Jackson Child Molestation Allegations, Hughes reveals facts that have never been made public, court documented information, public statements and records that she insists prove Jackson’s innocence.

The chapters unfold by revealing the key players, highlighting the events leading up to the allegation and giving a thorough description of the legal activities that led Jackson’s attorney to settle the case.Redemption is a modern-day mystery that requires a chapter-by-chapter unfolding for all the facts to be known and to redeem an innocent man’s character from the cloud of guilt that has been hanging over his head since 1993. Justice can only be served after the truth is told. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (52)

This book that proves nothing - she's disgruntled
It is obvious that Ms. Hughes hated her employer, Mr. Rothman, as she goes on at length about how mean he was and what a jerk he was.She quit after 8 months.

This book doesn't prove anything at all.I was hoping to find enough information to satisfy myself that MJ was framed in 1993 but this book doesn't even come close to providing "redemption".In fact, it is a joke.Ms. Hughes "proof" that MJ is innocent consists of her assessment that Jordie was warm and loving and acted like a "normal" 13 year-old who liked listening to his Walkman.Problem with her assessment is that she had only met him briefly twice and she's no mental health professional.Furthermore, she has no clue what was "normal" behavior for Jordie since she had never met him BEFORE his association with MJ - maybe he was completely different then and the "warm loving" behavior she observed was completely out of character for him.That's not proof of anything.Her other "evidence" is the fact the Mr. Rothman went to great lengths to keep things confidential.That's not unusual.MJ was the biggest star in the world, so of course counsel went to great lengths to keep things from leaking to the press.Lastly her "evidence" is that Rothman carefully planned how the abuse would be reported and instructed Mr. Chandler to have the psychologist report the alleged abuse to the police rather than do it himself.My response to that is "so what"? So what they planned how best to report the alleged abuse given MJ's celebrity status.That doesn't mean the abuse didn't occur - it just meant they were carefully planning how to proceed in light of the alleged molestation.

A Must Read for True Jackson fans
I was fortunate enough to meet Geraldine Hughes last weekend at an MJ charity event.
I do have to say, that I did not spend anywhere near $150.00 for this book. I think she remarked that the book was currently out of print except the few she had with her that night. For anyone wishing to know the truth behind those nasty allegations, this is a must read. Miss Hughes is a fine human being and is very sincere in her attempt to explain what she knows happened. She gives us, the reader an inside view to the team of individuals who set about to destroy Mr. Jackson.
Miss Hughes was quick to point out that it took her along time to write the book as she didn't want to be viewed as someone "doing it for money." At the urging of her Mother, she finally came forward with what she saw and heard during her time working for the lawyer hired by the dentist to destroy Michael Jackson.

I could barely put this book down! I read it in three nights and confirmed what I long had known in my heart. Michael Jackson was completely innocent of all charges.
This was a casethe worst kind of extortion! If you can get your hands on this book and want to know the whole truth, this is the book to read!

Thank you to Miss Hughes for having the courage to come forward and defend MJ.

Great Book
Geraldine make the 1993 allegation fall into place so th ereader can see the story for what it was, extortion.I recommend anyone who wants to know the truth to read this book.

Ms. Hughes--A Voice of Courage
If onlyMs. Hughes' careful documentation during her employment with the prosecuting attorneycould actually be focused on, today, in mainstream media.The bald-faced lies, the vicious accusations and deliberate acts of extortion exposed during the 1993 molestation case could be revealed by journalists interested in seeking the truth and finally vindicating this innocent man.

Ms. Hughes carefully recorded the details surrounding Dr. Chandler's vindictive attempt to extort millions from Michael Jackson.The fact that he ultimately was successful in gaining a huge settlement doesn't cast doubt on Michael's innocence; rather it proves that it was only money he was after all along.If he truly was outraged at alleged criminal behavior committed against his son, MONEY would have NEVER been the goal.If the facts were there, Mr. Jackson would have been arrested and tried in a court.There was no evidence to prove any criminal act.But that did not stop his relentless quest to destroy Michael Jackson.

Few people are probably aware thatDr. Chandler, the father of the 13-year-old boy in question, recently committed suicide.One is compelled to ask, "Was he driven to take his life because he could no longer live with his vile deed, knowing that his bloodlust for ill-gotten gain ultimately played a pivotal role in the gradual downfall of Michael's career and personal life?"

As a reader, you have to judge for yourself.Millions of Michael Jackson fans knew the truth.Even though we did not know him, personally, what this man projected in his tireless philanthropic efforts, and the love evident in his music and dance, we were convinced that he was simply incapable of carrying out such repulsive behavior.He clearly was childlike in his love of children, yet very adult and mature in his efforts to reach out and help them, too.Of course he was human and flawed, making many personal and career mistakes throughout his life, but I will defend his innocence where these sick accusations are concerned until I die.

It is time that we citizens hold the media responsible for their words.Lives are destroyed because of prejudice and failure to seek the truth at all times.

Thank you, Ms. Hughes.I hope truth seekers everywhere read your book.Michael Jackson is not here to see it, but I hope he is remembered because he was the greatest entertainer ever, a loving father, and a man with a sincere hope for humanity to live together, peacefully, as one.

Can't Even Finish the Book - It's That Bad
I was really looking forward to receiving this book.It was written by a former legal secretary who was working for the attorney that represented MJ's accuser, and I thought she would really know something about what really went on. I'm a legal secretary myself so I was interested to know what she knew.I read over half of the book and it was nothing but her opinion of how wonderful MJ was.I thought MJ was wonderful, too, but that doesn't prove anything.Most of what she said was already in Randy Taraborrelli's book about MJ, and I didn't learn anything new in her book.I didn't appreciate the religious quotes all through the book, either.I feel totally ripped off by her.Plus, I agree with another reviewer that she seemed to have despised her boss and it really came across in the book.That was pointless.I would not waste my money on this book. ... Read more

Product Description
In 2002, as Sierra Leone prepared to announce the end of its brutal civil war, the distinguished anthropologist, poet, and novelist Michael Jackson returned to the country where he had intermittently lived and worked as an ethnographer since 1969. While his initial concern was to help his old friend Sewa Bockarie (S. B.) Marah—a prominent figure in Sierra Leonean politics—write his autobiography, Jackson’s experiences during his stay led him to create a more complex work: In Sierra Leone, a beautifully rendered mosaic integrating S. B.’s moving stories with personal reflections, ethnographic digressions, and meditations on history and violence.

Though the Revolutionary United Front (R.U.F.) ostensibly fought its war (1991–2002) against corrupt government, the people of Sierra Leone were its victims. By the time the war was over, more than fifty thousand were dead, thousands more had been maimed, and over one million were displaced. Jackson relates the stories of political leaders and ordinary people trying to salvage their lives and livelihoods in the aftermath of cataclysmic violence. Combining these with his own knowledge of African folklore, history, and politics and with S. B.’s bittersweet memories—of his family’s rich heritage, his imprisonment as a political detainee, and his position in several of Sierra Leone’s post-independence governments—Jackson has created a work of elegiac, literary, and philosophical power. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

from the Armchair Anthropologist
The questions arising in this splendid piece of anthropological work are many.How can a society go on after the devastation? Why did it happen? Those are the two most important questions, which Michael Jackson contemplates while he meets people and writes an biography of the Sierra Leonese politician Sewa Bockarie Marah. I read slowly and thoughtfully to understand the richness and sometimes provocative thinking Jacksons puts forth.The thoughts of the book comes back when I read articles from different newspapers and journals.The conflict can't be explained in an article. It is too complex. But the book can enrich and be enriched by different articles in the main press. ... Read more

Product Description
Michael Jackson was once universally acclaimed as a song-and-dance man of genius; Wacko Jacko is now, more often than not, dismissed for his bizarre race and gender transformations and confounding antics, even as he is commonly reviled for the child molestation charges twice brought against him. Whence the weirdness and alleged criminality? How to account for Michael Jackson’s rise and fall? In On Michael Jackson—an at once passionate, incisive, and bracing work of cultural analysis—Pulitzer Prize–winning critic for The New York Times Margo Jefferson brilliantly unravels the complexities of one of the most enigmatic figures of our time.

Who is Michael Jackson and what does it mean to call him a “What Is It”? What do P. T. Barnum, Peter Pan, and Edgar Allan Poe have to do with our fascination with Jackson? How did his curious Victorian upbringing and his tenure as a child prodigy on the “chitlin’ circuit” inform his character and multiplicity of selves? How is Michael Jackson’s celebrity related to the outrageous popularity of nineteenth-century minstrelsy? What is the perverse appeal of child stars for grown-ups and what is the price of such stardom for these children and for us? What uncanniness provoked Michael Jackson to become “Alone of All His Race, Alone of All Her Sex,” while establishing himself as an undeniably great performer with neo-Gothic, dandy proclivities and a producer of visionary music videos? What do we find so unnerving about Michael Jackson’s presumed monstrosity? In short, how are we all of us implicated?

In her stunning first book, Margo Jefferson gives us the incontrovertible lowdown on call-him-what-you-wish; she offers a powerful reckoning with a quintessential, richly allusive signifier of American society and popular culture.Amazon.com Review
Book Description
Margo Jefferson’s On Michael Jackson is a lucid and elegant cultural analysis of the rise and fall of the King of Pop.

An award-winning cultural critic, Jefferson brings an unexpected compassion as well as her sharp intellect and incomparable insight to Jackson’s 2005 trial for child molestation, startling us with her erudite illumination of a media-drenched circus that we only thought we understood. As only she can, Jefferson reads between the lines of Jackson’s 1998 autobiography as well as published accounts of his childhood, his family, and Motown--where Michael and his brothers first made the Jackson 5 a household name--leaving us with provocative and perhaps unanswerable questions about Jackson, child stardom, and fame itself.

Margo Jefferson on the Life and Death of Michael Jackson
Pundits love to talk about the crises and cultural flashpoints that give Americans the chance to grow up and think outside of the usual dualities: this is good, that is evil; we hate her, we love him. Michael Jackson’s death gives us yet another chance.

Talent, scandal, sudden death, and a 24/7 media cycle make us very worshipful or very cynical.We can do better this time around. We don’t have to sneer or be pious. We know Michael Jackson was a genius, and we know he became a tortured soul. The first three days after his death were our grace period. We watched videos, replayed our favorite songs relived our youth, and waxed nostalgia about the good old days when all we had to deal with was his enormous talent. And though I never much liked the song, "we" were definitely the world--crowding onto streets, into theaters and parks, dancing (or at least swaying) to his music. North and South America. Europe. Africa. Asia. Only Antarctica and most of the animal kingdom stayed uninvolved.

Then the nasty stuff started creeping out again, like the ghouls in Thriller. Drug reports, rumors of custody wars, tours of an empty Neverland, memorial extravaganza plans; the sight of Michael’s father hustling family unity along with his new record company; the statements and counter-statements of siblings, lawyers, ex-employees, companions and bottom-feeders.And,of course, the three children. Whatever we don’t know about them, we do know they’re worth their weight in gold records and posthumous business deals. And it’s only just begun.

But we can live with the damaged life and the great work: both of them, all at once. We have to. So much of Michael Jackson’s damage reflects the worst in our culture, and so much of his talent reflects the best.--Margo Jefferson

(Photo © Brent Murray)

... Read more

Customer Reviews (27)

another person who dares
Ms. Jefferson does not take definite position on whether Mr. Jackson is a child molester. Good grief, another person who dares write about someone with failure to research. This gets tiring. The facts regarding Michael's innocence have been out a few years. All she had to do is go on the internet. How dare her. Michael's true honor is coming forth despite so much ignorance, false judgment and the perverse sensationalism over Michael Jackson.

most objective analysis on MJ
gaves a high level analysis in a very objective way on Michales so-called bizzar personality/behavior. It is not fact-focused, and actually the only book helps me understanding Michael instead of judging him.

I enjoyed a lot reading the book and appreciate Margo's unique and sensetional point of view.

Margo Jerferson "On MJ"
This book was a good surprise for me. Very well and elegantly written, like a poem, insightful, psycologically wise, compelling like Michael dancing: elegant and sensual... Analitic and sensitive, made me feel compassion in a good way, loving him , heartfelt for his unacceptable passing. I'm still mourning...In a sea of "books about MJ", this is really provocative,a pleasure to read... Thank you, Margo for so brilliantly taking us though his life, like The Philladelphia Inquirer wrote:"calls for rumination, not scorn. Her jazzy style makes this book a literary entertainment of its own".

Horrible
This book was just awful. It included no new information (and in fact quite a bit of inaccurate information) and was very poorly written. It was difficult to read and not at all worth the money I spent on it.

Got from the library thankfully so did not have to pay for this thing
I got it from the library as well. Thankfully I didn't have to pay for this piece of judgemental garbage. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Great History of Michael Jackson
the book has a lot of pictures and photographs of Michael from child to thriller (1984). But if you have books such as the Magic and the madnessthe pictures are of the same thing. Probably from a different angle orsuch. Great book though for any Michael Jackson fan. ... Read more

Product Description
'They became so successful, so quickly,that none of us were prepared for it.' - Suzanne de Passe, Motown RecordsWhat can be said about Michael Jackson, that hasn't already been said? Yes so much of what is written about Michael is either inaccurate or negative.The aim of this book is to tell Michael's incredible story as accurately, honestly and comprehensively as possible by focusing on hi music. The book includes a complete, chronological listing of every album (including track listings), one-off singles and collaborations Michael released in the USA and/or UK:In the pre-Motown eraFor Motown, solo and with the Jackson 5With the JacksonsThe book also features a complete USA and UK chartography, discographies from both the USA and the UK, a videography and a fascinating listing of Jackson rarities from around the world. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

really good book
This is a really good factual book all about Michael Jackson's start in music. It is loaded with all kinds of facts and tidbits about Micheal's early life and the creation of so many of the songs we are familiar with and some we're not as familiar with. A really in-depth book with integrity and facts, not tabloid trash! It's fun to read too. Bravo authors. We need more books like this about Michael!

MJJ Books
Very good documentation on the career trail of the jackson 5, the jacksons, and the jackson five and jonny.Good detail and great reference for those serious fans.

I love The Book
I love Michael Jackson,so of coarse I am bound to like books about him that.This book was Wonderful,it has alot of information on his songs when he was in the Jackson 5

really strong Book
this is really cool a book that covers early MJ&His Career&whatnot.this Book does a Great job of refelcting on the artistic side of MJ&going over His work.also a Great reflection on Jermaine,Tito,Marlon,Jackie&later Randy.it's about time the real reason why people got into MJ is mentioned&showcased fr more here with this book.

MJJ The Early Years
Any fan of Michael of any age is perfect for this book. Full of very rare stories of each album, and photos. Pure heart and soul of one man from a child to growing, but fully grown. Get a view of Michael we don't ever see anymore. From the J5 to solo with his bros, to acting as a man of his own in Epic. A true and beautiful book. ... Read more

Product Description
By almost any statistical system you care to devise, Michael Jackson - solo and with his brothers - is far and away the world's most successful entertainer of the past three decades or more. The aim of this book - the second of two volumes - is to tell the story of Michael's solo career as accuratey, honestly and comprehensively as possible, by focussing on his music. The book includes albums (with track listings), one-off singles and collaborations Michael has released in the USA and/or UK since October 1971, when his first solo single was issued in the States. The book also features a complete USA/UK chartography, top singles and albums (including USA and UK million sellers), awards, movies and videography, USA discography, UK discography, and a fascinating listing of rarities from around the world.

Companion volume: 'Michael Jackson - The Early Years' (by the same authors). ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

MJ Book
Returned this book because it wasn't a storybook about MJ but a bunch of inserts of events.

Props always to the King of Pop
first&Foremost anybody who writes negatively on Michael Jackson obvisiously don't know much about Music. He single handly changed the course of Music twice. He ruled the last century period. the Greatest Musical Figure of last century period. I get so tired of folks trying to downplaythis Man's Musical legacy. nobody can deny the lasting impact he made. he truly is aone of a kind. he owes nobody nothing. this Book showcases all of his Motown through Epic Era material&does a Wonderful job.alot of books want to eat off his name,but they don't acknowledge that He opened the door for many. He could have retired after "off the wall&thriller" His Legacy would have been enshrined for always. I mean Michael Jackson is the "M" of MTV&for the Last Century he was the "M" of Music. ain't too many Artists that can boast or Brag that they have done what this Man has done Musically. 3 plus Decades. if you came out after MJ then you are in debt to Him Musically period. He changed the course of Music in all styles&vibes period. truly a One of a Kind Musical Genius&Force.this is a Must Have Book.

MJ The Solo Years
Michael Jackson The Solo Years is a one of a kind book. I would suggest this to all MJJ fans from all over. It not only lists every single album Michael has appeared on and starred on - from Motown and on, but it also has a list of every single he has released, songs un released through the years from Michael, a complete list of rare, wanted gems, discography, chartography, rare item pictures all through the book, all of Michael's amazing awards and MUCH MORE!!!!! The best part about this book: IT IS PURE MUSIC!!!! The authors themselves are true fans, and you'll find this out while reading it. MJJ The Solo Years is out now, and it is AMAZING!!!!
"A collectors dream," for all fans.

Christina ... Read more

Customer Reviews (206)

Two-faced Jones
A. Jones has been completely two sided during the whole Michael Jackson trial. She showed up at Neverland ranch trying to convince fans she was one of them, saying she thought Michael was innocent, and then went on national television and accused him of everything saying he was guilty and telling Larry King that Michael was a molester. This woman is in to make big bucks from Michael as everyone is and if you want the truth read the book, "Moonwalker" by Michael himself and you can truly get the real story, and its an amazing and powerful read. A.Jones is full of it.

great book
this is a must have!! facts are facts and this book has them, not full of the half truths and opinions given by so called news outlets!

money grabbers
I think it is absolutely dispicable that people are trying to make money on his death, greedy buggers is what you are.160 to 1900 for a book....really?!?! You should be ashamed of yourselves.

Fantastic Book!
I have followed Michael Jackson's career extensively (not obsessively) since he and I were both children and I first saw him on tv. I was only 5 years old and remember the goosebumps on my arms when I heard him sing. I was picked on furiously by some of my school mates for liking a 'little black boy' but I didn't care. I wasn't taught to think or see people 'in color' I new there was something special about Michael. When Black and White came out I couldn't have been happier. There was Michael singing, "I'm not going to spend my life being a color". He tried so hard to spread humanity through his music and I was there in spirit, all along the way.

I have read literally every book (in English) written about Michael and own most of them. A good number I've trashed because they were full of tabloid garbage, containing nothing but speculation and opinions.

This is one book I was very excited to read when it first came out and I have not been disappointed. I have long since hoped Ms.Jones would be asked to put together a very comprehensive documentary for television. Not some of the snippets and bits of drama that have surfaced recently, but a good long one that digs deep into the truth...like this book.

Ms. Jones had the courage to expose the media lies and tell the truth when Michael was alive and her book wouldn't make the money it's obviously making now. She did it for truth, not for gain. That was clear. Where was everyone else? I'll tell you...waiting until he was gone, to write more books full of speculation and cash in...like all the other vampires and leeches the surrounded him in his life. Readers beware the other books written about Michael. Most are shams. If you want to know what's valid, check out Charles Thomson's website. He discusses this and other books about Michael openly and fairly.

Thank you Aphrodite Jones for having Michael's back when it counted. Don't stop now. His children need the truth out there. We're all behind you.

Comprehensive and Fair Account of the Child Molestation Charges Against Michael Jackson
I have to admit, I was one of those. What I mean by that is that I believed Michael Jackson was guilty of the charges that were brought against him by Gavin Arvizo. I wasn't sure about the first allegation that was brought against him by Jordie Chandler and later settled out of court, but this second time, I was swayed in the direction of thinking he was guilty. What did I have to base my opinion on? Like many people in America - The Bashir documentary. I sat and watched that documentary and thought that Michael Jackson was much stranger than I had ever imagined.

When Michael Jackson passed away last year, many people blamed his legal troubles with these two allegations as the reason he died. I believe these allegations and the media nightmare that surrounded both cases, his money troubles, and the downturn of his career were probably the reasons he couldn't sleep at night. They were the reasons he probably numbed himself with drugs. They were the reasons his health took a downturn.

Aphrodite Jones was one of those journalists in the media who spoke out against Michael Jackson. She was one of "those". I give her much kudos to come out and write such an honest and heart-felt book about Michael Jackson. She used the actual transcripts from the trial. There is a frankness about the tone that she uses in this book that you know she is giving Michael Jackson an account that actually portrayed what happened without smoke-screens.

What was shocking about this account was how crooked and one-sided the media had been throughout, regardless of what had transpired in court. The media wanted to continue along, painting Michael Jackson as a clown who was in a circus side-show instead of ever giving him the benefit of the doubt while they were covering this trial. It is also interesting to note that this book was published in 2007, two years before Michael Jackson's death. It can be said with conviction that, unlike many other biographies that have come out since his death, or the books that WERE written prior to his death and have been since "updated", Aphrodite Jones did not "cash in" on the death of Michael Jackson.

I read this book for the first time after Michael's passing, and I just reread it again, shortly after the one-year anniversary of his death. I understand Michael Jackson a lot better now. I always knew he was a talent. I grew up with his music. However, I always felt that his "tabloid image" had overshadowed his career. In Michael's case, I think some of that was his fault, but a good deal of it was the media. This man was taunted and tortured by people who had no clue what kind of person he was. He was used as a money machine by those who he did business with. He was betrayed by employees and handlers, and worst of all, children that he had opened his heart and home to.

I sincerely believe that Michael Jackson loved children with his whole being and would never hurt them. I believe he was innocent in many ways, and didn't think as an adult thought about how things looked to the outside "adult" world. I believe that Gavin Arvizo is alive today because of Michael Jackson. This conniving child knew what he was doing with Michael and other celebrities. He was a brat, and his brother, Star, was a brat. His mother, Janet, was a shady nut-job. These people KNEW what they were doing, and Karma is going to come for them one day. I wonder how they live with themselves now that the man that saved Gavin's life is gone? I wonder how Jordie Chandler lives with himself? We know his evil father died of a self-inflicted suicide. Maybe the guilt finally caught up with him.

I hope, in the wake of Michael's passing, that more books come out like this. Michael is not here anymore. I know he is now happy and at peace. For the rest of us who are still living, someone needs to be his voice, and hopefully more will speak up. It is time for both Gavin Arvizo and Jodie Chandler to come clean - publicly and officially. It is time to right the wrongs and restore the Michael Jackson Legacy to its original shine.



... Read more

Product Description
Michael Jackson 2011 Wall Calendar: Michael Jackson Wall Calendar: This 2011 calendar features iconic images of the late, great Michael Jackson throughout his extraordinary career as a singer, dancer, and entertainer. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

2011 calendar, etc.
alright,but Feb&March have errors on dates. I also wish some items would have pics beyond DangerousEra, like from HIStoryEra & also pics from late 90's and on. Because 2010 calender and Katherines book & etc.,were really beautiful, but very few or no pics seems to go past DangerousEra.

Leggs
Very good photo's.There are a few that could be a little clearer, but overall I am happy with my purchase.I definitely recommend.Sorry I didn't get one for 2010.

Beautiful calendar
This is a fantastic calendar.Every photo is spectacular.Of course, it helps if you're a Michael Jackson fan!The calendar is large and of good quality photo paper.

Love It!
If you are a fan, anything Michael Jackson is a must.I love all the pictures and can' wait for the 2012 calendar!

Printing errors!
Just rec'd calendar.While pictures are great I found the months of Feb and March have misprints which makes the dates and days of week not correct.Each of these months are showing 2 days each for the 7th which dates and days of the week do not "line up". Whoever printed these calendars should have proof read them!Hopefully this problem will be corrected. I am sure my copy was not the only one! ... Read more

Product Description
Arranged for Piano & Guitar (Standard Notation) with Lyrics.Matching songbook to the landmark album that established Michael Jackson as an international superstar. Contents: Wanna Be Startin' Somethin', Baby Be Mine, The Girl Is Mine, Thriller, Beat It, Billie Jean, Human Nature, P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing), The Lady In My Life ... Read more

Product Description
A richly detailed examination of Belgian beer and brewing. Michael Jackson's extraordinary passion for Belgian beer shines through in every aspect of this engaging work, from the personal stories of the people behind the beers to the careful descriptions of their flavors. Revised and updated shortly before his death in August 2007, this work represents the pinnacle of Jackson's meticulous research and masterful writing, presented in a beautifully illustrated visual environment. With a new forward by Brewers Association President Charlie Papazian. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

one of the best
This book is not only beautifully illustrated and printed, with its many lovely pictures of the breweries and thier beers, but it is also one of the most insightful and well written works on beer appreciation. Truly a must have for any belgian beer enthusiast, especially if you're ever planning a trip to the motherland itself. A truly excellent piece of work.

Great writing from one of beer's great advocates
A great book on belgian beers by probaly the greatest beer advocate of our times.Make me want to take a trip to Belgium so I can taste these beers for myself.

The best!
Simply the best book on beer I've read yet.Really informative, historical, pictorial, and well written.Has that classic Jackson dry humor.I just couldn't put this down; this book just about covers it all when it comes to Belgium and beer!I particularly enjoyed the chapter on the lambics and the trappists.Anybody that is into Belgian beer like I am, this is a must read.This book now in its sixth edition is fully updated and Mr. Jackson even goes through and describes how each brewery has changed since the first edition he put out.R.I.P Michael Jackson.

Great book about great beers
Even before I visited all the Trappist monasteries in Belgium I have been a big fan of the many Belgian beer styles. This book is an excellent guide to beers you may have already tried and ones you already understand and appreciate. Not only that, but it's beautifully laid out with outstanding photographs. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

A Heartfelt Tribute
Nice attempt to honor Michael Jackson.This, however, is the authors' perception and may, or may not, reflect whatactuallytranspired in the heart and mind of the subject.It was enjoyable to read and a reflection on how two ofMr. Jackson'sfans feel about him.My primary concern. and my reasoning for purchasing selections, on the subject is to seeif an author applied much discretion in describing the actions and thought process on Mr. Jackson and it was discovered that most of the authors project themselves as authorities on their subject. Most of the time, this is not the case.It is conjecture which, of course, is fine if opinions are prefaced with suchphases as "we feel that or we believe that or it appears, etc." are used.

When a personhas departed from the planet and people choose to write and tribute them, much thought has to be given otherwise, it is simply an opinion that can enhance or diminish the departed individual's essence.It was a sweet and endearing read.

Nothing new...and a lot of fiction
While the book says a lot of 'nice stuff', it has no factual basis. It is merely conjecture and a regurgitation of information already found in many books written before. Some 'facts' are blatantly false. I would not recommend this book to anyone wanting anything new or, true, for that matter. Although not negative about Michael, it reads like a tabloid, 40% potentially valid, the rest opinion and rumor. Sorry guys.

THE TWO STARS GO TO MJ'S PHOTOS...
...BECAUSE THE BOOK IS... POOR ! THAT'S THE WORD! POORLY WRITTEN AND WRONG INFORMATIONS,SINCE THE VERY FIRST PAGE.EVEN IF YOU MAY TAKE IN CONSIDERATION THAT THE WRITERS ARE NO PROFESSIONALS BUT ONLY MJ'S FANS( FANS WITH SUCH LACK OF ACCURACY ABOUT HIS LIFE?). I'M NOT RETURNING BECAUSE IT DOESN'T WORTH THE TROUBLE. FOR YOU, THAT ARE THINKING ON PURCHASING IT...DO NOT.

The heart of a child
As a German reader, I'm steadily interested in reading English-written books. So I was looking for new material about Michael Jackson and found this little paperback issue.
The cover is very nice. The way the two authors have created the chapters includinga black and white picture of Michael at each page made me start.
After reading a couple of pages, I realised there are no news on Michael though the authors claim they had been traveling throughout America to get information.
I especially feel them having been following what is already written about Michael's life both as human being and artist and death. They put it in their own words. Sometimes I'm not sure whether or not the mentioned facts are true. So, I wonder what they tell us about the date of the announcement of the This is it - tour what was called the "final curtain". I remember him having been in London on March 5th, 2009. They tell us it was in July 2008 and in March it should be precised. Did all the media understand it wrongly?
The authors might be FANs of Michael Jackson but I don't believe them having done suchhuge effort to write a book. In any way, it is very expensive.

Your book
Dear Elizabeth and Melissa; I really enjoyed reading your book, it is so clear and wonderful to see your true love for Michael, I completely identify with what is written, I too love him with all my heart, I have written many thoughts about him since he was taken away from his children, his family and his fans. He was the most amazing man with so much love in his heart and with so much insight, he was talented beyond anything or anyone I know, he gave and sacrificed so much in his life, & only to be ripped apart by the media and those whom he trusted and betrayed him, but none of this stopped him from loving and spreading that love everywhere he went. He was a man of culture and intelligence, a true child at heart, if only those who have criticized him would open their minds and their hearts then they will be as touched as I am. I would be happy to share my thoughts with you anytime. Thank you for your efforts in this book and for your loyalty to him.
He may be gone but will never be forgotten.
Maria
gely1956@yahoo.com ... Read more

Product Description
Partly by chance, partly by design-is there anyone else who so wanted to be different?-there was never a life like Michael Jackson's. Preposterously talented, fronting the Jackson 5 from early childhood, he captivated kids, and more than a few grown-ups, with fancy footwork, effortless high C's and charisma to burn.

And that was only prelude. Thriller launched Jackson into a new level of celebrity stratosphere - more media, more attention, more intensity - that even Elvis or the Beatles had never experienced. How he dealt with that fame - how he used it, and how it, arguably, overwhelmed him - became, in later years, the heart of the Michael Jackson story.

Remembering Michael looks back at the triumphs, and struggles, of a life like no other. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

Remembering Michael
I thoroughly enjoyed the book. The pictures are beautiful, full color and expressive. The printed material is succinct and to the point. Makes a good read and is a book that will be looked at many times. It does just what the title says for it chronicles Michael from childhood through manhood.Glad I bought the book.

wonderful
I love this great book of true devotion to Michael! Covered his life pretty much, would reccomend it to everyone for a great keepsake!

Excellnt Tribute
I loved this book because it has nice clear pictures. Not overbearing with information - they just did a nice job putting this together. Actually I bought (2) - one to keep with my collection and one to cut out pictures and put them in frames they are so nice!!

Michael Jackson tribute book
This book was for our 11 year old son.He's a Michael Jackson finatic!I think it is a good book for the money.Great pictures.I'm glad I got this book.It was much cheaper on Amazon than at the book store.

MJ Tribute
I think that Michael Jackson was the most gifted and talented entertainers that ever lived. I was and still am shocked by his sudden death. I liked the People tribute to him. The photos are great! My only problem is that they should have left out some of the senational stuff. I'm tired of the rehashing of his plastic surgery and things of that nature. Who cares?! I don't! Whether he had a little or a lot, he was still beautiful to me. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Great book for kids about young Michael Jackson
Marvelous Michael Jackson, written by Barbara McCall, was originally sold through the Scholastic Book Program sponsored by Weekly Reader Books. Young kids will enjoy learning about Michael Jackson, the origin of the Jackson 5 pop music band, and Michael's musical influences like James Brown and Diana Ross.

There are 48 color photos and a 20-question Trivia Quiz in this neat book. I really liked this book as a great introduction to Michael Jackson's early fame. The photo descriptions and simple paragraphs of information let kids know about things like where Michael was born, his early stage appearances, and some of the first songs he sang in public.

Topics included in the 5 chapters include The Motown Years, Michael going solo, and all about the world's biggest-selling album, Thriller. Kids will love the full-page photos and easy to read storyline.

Even if you're not a child, this book details Michael's life from the beginning through the Thriller years and should be in every MJ collection. ... Read more