Book Description
An intimate memoir of a friendship with the greatest artist in rock and roll history, taking you from late-night parties at Graceland to the bright lights of Hollywood sets and glittering stages of Vegas
On a lazy Sunday in 1954, twelve-year-old Jerry Schilling wandered into a Memphis touch football game, only to discover that his team was quarterbacked by a nineteen-year-old Elvis Presley, the local teenager whose first record, ÂThatÂ's All Right, had just debuted on Memphis radio. The two became fast friends, even as Elvis turned into the worldÂ's biggest star. In 1964, Elvis invited Jerry to work for him as part of his ÂMemphis Mafia, and Jerry soon found himself living with Elvis full-time in a Bel Air mansion and, later, in his own room at Graceland. Over the next thirteen years Jerry would work for Elvis in various capacitiesÂfrom bodyguard to photo double to co-executive producer on a karate film. But more than anything else he was ElvisÂ's close friend and confidant: Elvis trusted Jerry with protecting his life when he received death threats, he asked Jerry to drive him and Priscilla to the hospital the day Lisa Marie was born and to accompany him during the famous Âlost weekend when he traveled to meet President Nixon at the White House.
Me and a Guy Named Elvis looks at Presley from a friendÂ's perspective, offering readers the man rather than the iconÂincluding insights into the creative frustrations that lead to ElvisÂ's abuse of prescription medicine and his tragic death. Jerry offers never-before-told stories about life inside ElvisÂ's inner circle and an emotional recounting of the great times, hard times, and unique times he and Elvis shared. These vivid memories will be priceless to ElvisÂ's millions of fans, and the compelling story will fascinate an even wider audience. BACKCOVER:
Advance Praise for Me and a Guy Named Elvis
ÂThis book kept me up late into the night as I turned the pages, reliving every situation and every story as if I were there all over again, until I finished. Jerry SchillingÂ's words brought tears to my eyes, making me smile and nod as it filled my head with things I had forgotten but thankfully he remembered. Jerry tells his story with the freshness and purity of a man who truly loved his friend. Me and a Guy Named Elvis is not only authentic, honest, and truly movingÂit is a marvel.Â
ÂPriscilla Presley
ÂJerry had the keys to the kingdom, the keys to the KingÂ's houses, to the KingÂ's cars, to the heart of what made Elvis a King in the first place. Here he unlocks every door and his own heart to boot. In this book, Jerry Schilling brings grace to Graceland.Â
ÂBono
ÂJerry Schilling has captured the beauty of my fatherÂ's spirit in a way that has never been done before. I will admit that I was nervous to read another book on this subject, especially by a friend (there are not many who remain in my life from this time period, as Jerry does), but this book is by far my favorite. It is a captivating, well-written, and un-crucifying account of many historic moments that shows the real birth and evolution of Rock and Roll and how it bridged the racial divide. Jerry tells his story of a young boy growing up poor with no real family before fate changed his life during one Sunday afternoon game of footballÂand he tells it with humility, honesty, and dignity.Â
ÂLisa Marie Presley
ÂWhat Jerry Schilling has written in Me and a Guy Named Elvis is an account of one manÂ's experience, a personal memoir that, while it places its narrator squarely in the midst of historic events, never claims credit for those events in the way that so many self-serving memoirs are inclined to do. It is a balanced treatment of a complex subject . . . What I think distinguishes the book most of all, though, is its emotional honesty, the generosity of spirit with which Jerry seeks to emulate his friend and mentor.Â
ÂPeter Guralnick, author of Last Train to Memphis and Careless Love
Customer Reviews:
Thanks, Jerry! Best Elvis book ever written!!!!.......2007-09-19
I couldn't put the book down. After reading this book, I feel as if I know Elvis, the man, not just the entertainer. Jerry, you had quite an exciting life being there with Elvis through the good times and the bad. Elvis was lucky to have a loyal friend such as you. I recently was on the first ever "Elvis Cruise" to the Bahamas and was honored to have met you and have you autograph the book for me. I recommend this book to all Elvis fans. You won't be disappointed.
One of the Best I've read.......2007-09-17
Me and a Guy Names Elvis is a wonderful read. It was nice to read a book about a true friend by a true friend. This 30 year mark hit home big time. With my age being 42 I felt so heart sick to think of Elvis dying so young. His talented life in front of him and a future with a daughter he never saw grow up. Jerry Schilling did a wonderful job writing this book. I hope Elvis fans stop reading the rest of the crap that's out there and sit to read this. He lost a good friend indeed.
Outstanding.......2007-09-13
This is a poignant biography of Elvis Presley written by a true friend who never betrayed him.
Review of book.......2007-09-05
I received the book in a timely manner and the condition of book was as stated which was in very good condition. I am very pleased the this transaction and would highly recommend seller.
Very entertaining and Good Book.......2007-09-04
I've read alot of Elvis book. Jerry Schilling seems to tell both sides, not all great things about Elvis because even Elvis was not perfect , but Jerry seems to tell the truth. I like that in the book. The book takes a few chapters to really get going but once it does, I was glued. I think I read the entire book in a weekend. getting ready to read it again.
This book is a must read for Elvis fans. Jerry Schilling is a great guy.
thanks
Adam
Book Description
"Elvis fans the world over constantly dream about what their fantasy would have been if they had been lucky enough to have known him. Imagine having been Linda Thompson's best girlfriend and being with her the night she met Elvis. Then imagine becoming Elvis' friend, being kissed by him, working for him, and the ultimate dream: having sleepovers at Graceland with Linda (actually sleeping in his bed) while Elvis was away, traveling with Elvis and Linda on concert dates, and taking pictures of the upstairs area at Graceland. This book tells the story of how it all began and gives you a look at the incredible (some never-before-seen) pictures."
Customer Reviews:
Elvis, Linda and Me.......2007-06-05
The contents of the book itself are very good. Book flows easily and I actually read the book in one day. It is overpriced but I bought mine, new, from an online auction site for 1/3 the price. The photos are nice but thought they could have been printed on better quality paper or in color if the originals were as such. This book is good for the Elvis fan who just wants to hear about only the positive things Elvis did in his life as she only just touches on the negative. Just wondering if Linda will write a book (everyone else has), though I would be very interested to read her accounts since she was alone with Elvis the most during that period.
Elvis, Linda and Me.......2007-05-15
One of the few Elvis books that is easy reading as well as entertaining for those of us who are often too busy to get into a complicated book, yet we want to read up on Elvis. It is also refreshingly positive (most of it)yet truthful. The author doesn't criticize & condem, just expresses an opinion & moves on. She does repeat herself throughout & some of the people mentioned in the book are not portrayed as being too bright; otherwise, it is a pretty good book.
Elvis Linda and Me.......2007-04-10
This book is good but not as good as Inside Graceland.
Jeanne tells us all about life with her best friend Linda and Elvis.
She tells a story of when Elvis was talking about his mother and yelled out momma and all the lights in graceland went out for a few seconds.
Then they came back on as he went on talking about his mother and yelled out momma again the lights went off again for a few more seconds I thought that was really strange but interesting. I thought Linda had left Elvis because of all the drugs Jeanne tells us that was part of it but also that Elvis was cheating on her with many women and also getting pretty serious with Ginger his last girlfriend. If you are an Elvis fan and have a collection of Elvis books then you should add this one to your set it is pretty good.
Elvis, Linda and Me: Unseen Pictures and untold stories from Graceland.......2007-04-10
This is a great book. There were times I would find myself laughing and times I would almost be in tears. It showed a side of Elvis no one got to see except those who were close to him. It has some great pictures of Elvis and Lisa Marie and some of his famous bedroom. Jeanne Lemay Dumas told about her life, the ups and downs, with the King of Rock and Roll. This is a must for any Elvis fan.
OVER PRICED.......2007-04-07
The book is great --- the price is about double what it should be.
Average customer rating:
- I'm not sure that I liked this book.
- Elvis and Me
- My Opinion
- Elvis and Me..couldn't put it down
- What I thought of Elvis and Me
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Elvis and Me
Priscilla Presley
Manufacturer: Berkley
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ASIN: 0425091031 |
Customer Reviews:
I'm not sure that I liked this book........2007-09-11
It was definitely worth reading. But I didn't enjoy reading it. Elvis came across as a spoiled child and someone who could be cruel and heartless at times and I didn't like that at all.
Left me with a lot of unanswered questions and doubts.
Elvis and Me.......2007-09-07
Great Movie about Elvis and Pricilla. It shipped in record time and it was in terrific condition. The book shipped very fast and was also in great condition and very informative and had pictures.
My Opinion.......2007-09-04
Ok so I read a lot of the reviews people left when I was considering buying this book. I almost did not buy it, because of the reviews reviews. First let me say I adore Elvis, I grew up with his music, and everytime I hear his songs they put me in a good mood. So I just have to say that after reading the book I loved it!
I think people are too hard on Priscilla. This book is called Elvis and me not Lets talk about me.... ggsshh come on so what if she brushed over her affairs, people want to know what Elvis was like not her. Its her side, And I really do believe they loved each other very much.
Who are we to sit here and judge her or him or their bond. So yes it shows Elvis was intresting and odd..very odd but hey thats what made him him. And as for her parents... well I wouldnt agree with what they decided but I dont believe they were out to get his money!
So go on its a good book!!!
Elvis and Me..couldn't put it down.......2007-08-10
I first came across this book years ago at my local Library. I actually read it 2x's before I had to take it back. And I received it for a gift for Christmas one year. This has to be by far one of the best books I've read about Elvis Presley. I enjoyed it so much and I have 2 copies of it because I actually read my other one over 100x's. I'm not even kidding. Yes it's crazy but I enjoyed the book that much. If you haven't read it I recommend it highly! It's a beautiful love story it truly is. I enjoy the movie too. Although most Elvis fans don't like the movie. I like the love aspect of it and the Nostalgic clips. Check it out if you haven't watched it.
Elvis Always!
What I thought of Elvis and Me.......2007-07-15
What I thought of Elvis and me. My thought was that Priscilla wanted to make herself out to be a victim. And I was disappointed abought the faked that she was not a virgin. My thought of the book is that if you want a book that is interesting then this is a book. I thought this book would give me more detail about her life with Elvis some deferent. It was more after the NBC mini series. In 1986. The book that I am reading know says more about what she was really like. I would not read this book agin. Thanks for your Site.
Average customer rating:
- A down-home look at the early years of the country biz
- A "MUST" for fans of Elvis, Hank and other super stars.
- ALMOST AS GOOD AS TALKING TO THE PERFORMES THEMSELVES
- being from Louisiana, thouroughly enjoyed it.
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Elvis, Hank, and Me: Making Musical History on the Louisiana Hayride
Horace Logan , and
Bill Sloan
Manufacturer: St Martins Pr
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Binding: Hardcover
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Customer Reviews:
A down-home look at the early years of the country biz.......2001-08-10
Horace Logan was the emcee and program director for the famed "Louisiana Hayride," a nationally broadcast weekly radio show that for the better part of the 1950s was the main competitor of the "Grand Ole Opry." Known as "the cradle of the stars," the Hayride had a reputation for developing hot new talent, and has long been an object of fascination for me since it was here that Webb Pierce got his start. As the main creative director of the Hayride, Logan's path intersected those of many top-flight hick musicians, including Webb, Johnny Horton, Johnny Cash, Kitty Wells, Jim Reeves and a slew of others whose careers took off when they became regulars on the show. This book concentrates the bulk of its effort towards two oft-mythologized stars whose lives are amply documented elsewhere - Hank Williams and Elvis Presley -- and while it's cool to get insights from a person who helped start both their careers, in a sense the book feels like a missed opportunity, since Logan must have had plenty more to say about the "early" days when country music made the transition from rinky-dink local operations into a major industry with a nationwide scope. He broke into the business at the tail end of a period when all the action was on local radio stations, and helped usher in the era when things became increasingly professionalized and big-league. While the book is very readable, it's unfortunate that Logan and his ghost-writer, Bill Sloan, didn't see fit to explore "the old days" a little bit more, and bring out more of the flavor of what the hick music business was like back when. It's understandable that they would emphasize the bankable big boys like Elvis and Hank, but considering how much has already been written about them, the "witness to history" approach doesn't add as much to the historical lore as more under-the-radar observations might have. In short, it would've been cool if the story had been more about Logan himself, and the world he saw, and not simply about the stars that lived in it. Still, Hayride enthusiasts should definitely check this one out!
A "MUST" for fans of Elvis, Hank and other super stars........1998-12-27
Being a country music disc jockey for almost a half-century as well as a song-writer and columnist, I found Horace Logan's "Elvis, Hank and Me" a genuine "refresher", a work of true art that not only informs but captures the attention of the reader by revealing the raw facts pertaining to the entertainment industry and the rough and rowdy trails many of the super-stars blazed in order to make the marquees of big-time show business. Horace mentions in this book the fact we toiled together for awhile at a radio station in the Dallas/Fort Worth market. He always had a most-interesting story to tell on the air. Now, many of those true, interesting and oft-times sad tales have been put into print for true enjoyment. -Bill Mack (Grammy winning songwriter of LeAnn Rimes', "BLUE"; Radio's "Midnight Cowboy", heard nightly on the "Bill Mack Trucking Network", and host on "Country Crossroads", syndicated nationally each week on radio & television.)
ALMOST AS GOOD AS TALKING TO THE PERFORMES THEMSELVES.......1998-12-08
I grew up in east Texas, and listening to country music during the late 40's and 50's ,along with rock and roll.We would listen to the radio and the Louisiana Hayride was one of several saturday night music programs that we listened to. this book "Elvis Hank and Me" was a plesant suprise, I found the book to be easy and informative reading. 'Hoss' Logan,gives you a warm and personal glimse into the everyday lives of some of the biggest stars to ever come along. Thanks 'Hoss'. If you start this book , you'll finish it.
being from Louisiana, thouroughly enjoyed it........1998-11-12
I thought the book was well written and I could hardly put it down. I learned a lot about the La. Hayride. Being from Monroe, La. it told me a lot about the early days of very good entainerners I've always loved. I wish I could have gone during its heyday.
Average customer rating:
- A little less conversation. A little more action.
- Teacher's Grade: C+
- A Very Amusing Series
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Zack Files 14: Elvis, the Turnip, and Me (Zack Files)
Dan Greenburg
Manufacturer: Grosset & Dunlap
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ASIN: 0448417499 |
Book Description
Late one night when Zack hears strains of "Heartbreak Hotel" coming from the fridge, he discovers the possibility that Elvis lives on...as a turnip! Talk about getting back to musical roots!
Customer Reviews:
A little less conversation. A little more action........2005-09-25
I had always meant to get around to reading a selection from the "Zack Files" oeuvre, but somehow the inclination never seemed to strike me. As a children's librarian, I'd watch the kids greedily snap up all the new "Zack Files" paperbacks I'd purchased for the library like they were some kind of surrealistic popcorn. It wasn't until I found myself processing one of these books that I allowed my eyes to fall on the title. "Elvis the Turnip and Me". Huh. On the cover our hero Zack holds a turnip that bears a striking resemblance to The King. I was amused. I was intrigued. So, sensing that if I was ever going to read a review a "Zack File" this would have to be the one, I plucked the book up. The reading took roughly fifteen minutes. Twenty tops. At the end I realized (as reviewers prior to myself have already done) that this isn't a very plot-heavy book exactly but it does indeed do what it set out to. It amuses. And sometimes in the world of children's paperback series, that's more than anybody could ask.
Zack wakes up one night to nip a nighttime snack from the kitchen. He father, much to his chagrin, has recently begun a kind of health-food craze within the family and as a result our hero is desperate for junk food of any kind. On opening the fridge door to get some pop, there's no mistaking the sound coming from he vegetable bin. Something is singing "You Ain't Nothin' But a Hound Dog" in there. Zack's quick to discover that the singer is a turnip. A turnip named Elvis that knows all kinds of songs but doesn't crave the spotlight. Zack's eager to show Elvis the sights of New York, but in their travels they attract the attention of a nefarious Elvis collector. A man who will stop at nothing to procure his very own vegetable King. Nothing.
Archly conservative parents that disapprove of the notion of reincarnation, no matter how silly, can lay their little hearts to rest. The turnip, as it happens, is not Elvis redux. He's just a turnip who happens to sound and look and act like The King. No biggie. The plot, as such, ain't much. There is a brief bout of veggie-napping, but it's over within, literally, two pages. There's also a rather bizarre meeting with David Letterman that suggests (oddly) that the people who appear on his show are paid large amounts of money. I bet Mr. Letterman would be delighted to hear that.
Charm can carry you quite a ways, and in this "Elvis the Turnip and Me" has it in spades. Unfortunately it's not enough. This is a fun book in a fun series but nobody could get away with believing that this is great literature. All in all, amusing without ever making a whole lotta sense.
Teacher's Grade: C+.......2005-09-24
This was another fun and quirky adventure for Zack and his dad as Zack encounters a talking turnip named Elvis. There's not much of a plot in this outing, and Zack is never in peril of any kind so the suspense is kind of thin. Overall, this was one of the more amusing Zack books but also one of the least satisfying.
I'm a 2nd grade teacher and have read this entire series, but won't be steering my class toward this one. Most kids I work with aren't Elvis fans and won't get much of the humor.
A Very Amusing Series.......1999-08-20
This is the first "Zack Files" book I read to my last class of third graders. I have never experienced such excitement for a book series! They loved Zack, and we read about 6 of the books throughout the year. This is my favorite, being that I love music. I actually got the giggles, and had to put the book down to regain my composure! Very silly and fun; I can't vouch for all of the books, but I would recommend checking some of them out for some quick, amusing reading for kids.
Book Description
Love me tender, love me sweet;
Never let me go.
You have made my life complete,
And I love you so.
Elvis Presley first sang "Love Me Tender" in the 1956 film of the same name. It was Presley's big screen debut and launched a stellar movie career. But it was the song, which Elvis co-wrote, that people took to their hearts. It is still one of his most popular. Now paired with Tom Browning's beautifully rendered paintings, these moving lyrics become a testament to the unconditional love between parent and child. A birthday, a walk in the park, that first tentative bike ride, and other special moments shared between a father and daughter make Elvis Presley's Love Me Tender an album full of precious memories.
Customer Reviews:
great book.......2006-11-21
There just aren't that many books that let a father convey these kind of feelings for his daughter. Great book.
I love Love Me Tender.......2005-05-18
We all know the lyrics, but in a different context. This beautifully illustrated book made me cry way before I got to the end.
This would be a perfect gift for a single father with a daughter, as all the illustrations are a man and girl together, but any child would love to hear this book read (or sung...you can't help it!) to them by anyone. Father, Mother, Aunt, Grampa...doesn't matter.
My father died when I was 15. I look for books to read with my children that have words that they will keep their hearts forever if anything ever happens to me or their dad. This will be a book we'll sing together for a long, long time. I can't recommend it enough.
Just BEAUTIFUL.......2005-03-27
Illustrator, Tom Browning, puts a new twist on an ELVIS classic love song. Never before has this song meant anything other than a dedication from a lover to another. But now, this book brings to life in a unique way the emotional bond between a father and his daughter.
Rich colors and sweet, sensitive facial expressions bring the lyrics to life in an extraordinary way as we see the many ways a father shares special moments with his daughter, from ice skating, feeding ducks on a pond, bundling up in the fall breeze, and blowing out birthday candles on a special cake.
Share this one with your little one, your father, or your grandfather. An absolute TREASURE of a book. And the cd of the Elvis is even included in the back!
A Beautiful Book.......2004-03-20
As a pre-kindergarten teacher I picked up the book to read to my students, and it brought tears to my eyes. The vivid pictures brought back intense memories of being a young girl. I played the "Love Me Tender" CD which accompanies the book, and the children loved it. People of all ages will feel a connection with this story.
A MASTERPIECE.......2003-08-12
The illustrations of the lyrics to Elvis Presley's classic song LOVE ME TENDER by illustrator Tom Browning are remarkable. Browning has done an amazing job. LOVE ME TENDER is one of the greatest ballads of the twentieth century. It is easily one of the most poignant and endearing love songs. LOVE ME TENDER is a song everyone knows. Tom Browning has brought the lyrics to life with his illustrations.
Elvis Presley recorded LOVE ME TENDER on August 24, 1956 and performed it on the Ed Sullivan show. The record was no. 1 for 5 weeks on Billboard in 1956 and is a multi-platinum seller. (Actor Richard Chamberlain and Percy Sledge also had Top 40 hits with cover versions of the song in the 1960s.) The song originally was part of the Twentieth-Century Fox Cinemascope movie of the same name. The producers originally wanted to call the movie THE RENO BROTHERS but changed the movie title to LOVE ME TENDER after hearing the song. The song was published by Elvis Presley Music and was written by Ken Darby ( a multi-Academy Award winner for music) and Elvis Presley. Vera Matson, listed as a co-writer, was actually the wife of Ken Darby,Vera Darby, using her maiden name on the songwriting credit. Ken Darby was the "principal writer" but Elvis Presley worked on the song in the studio, playing piano and guitar, and was instrumental in the creation of the final song. The melody is actually an adaptation of a Civil War era song called Aura Lee. The movie took place during the Civil War period so the song was perfect. Elvis Presley gave one of his most powerful vocal performances when he recorded LOVE ME TENDER. The performance is pensive and haunting and is the reason why the song became a classic. Elvis Presley put all the subdued emotion he could into the song. The result was spectacular. LOVE ME TENDER is one of Elvis Presley's greatest artistic creations. It is also one of his greatest performances and has become a part of Americana and musical legend.
Tom Browning brings out the poignancy of the lyrics and captures the power of the song. This book is highly recommended.
Book Description
Back from his tour of duty in Germany-and desperately missing his Momma-Elvis Aron Presley just isn't turned on by the music any more, not the way he used to be. Between dealing with his Machiavellian manager, the hangers-on and childhood pals crowding Graceland, and his own propensity for gobbling down fried peanut butter, the King tries desperately to get his heart back into rock and roll.But how can the King sing when young girls-the presidents of his fan clubs-are dying all over Tennessee? Elvis suspects foul play. To prove it, and to find the killer, he'll need to navigate the resentment, sqareness, and bigotry that hound-dog him at every turn. Only by allying himself with a self-taught doctor in a small black community, his alluring-and forbidden-nurse, and a mysterious early Elvis impersonator, can Presely hope to Take Care of Business in time to save the next victim.AUTHORBIO: DANIEL KLEIN is the author of four previous novels, including the thrillers Embryo and Beauty Sleep. He is the co-author of the popular humor books Where's Elvis? and Macho Meditations. A graduate of Harvard, he lives in Great Barrrington, Massachusetts.
Customer Reviews:
Elvis is investigating the deaths of fan club presidents.......2004-01-22
What a great mystery. I loved having Elvis Presley sleuthing to unravel the mysterious deaths of the fan club presidents. He was very likeable but he also resembled the real King.
Elvis is made aware of two young girls who have apparently died in their sleep. They were both presidents of his fan club in different Tennessee cities. No one believes them to be anything but sad. No foul play is suspected. Elvis feels differently and enlists the aid of Billy Jackson, a self-taught doctor to a small black community. His nurse Selma also assists and Elvis is smitten with her.
He also has to deal with a Elvis impersonator that thinks he really is Elvis. Elvis consults with a forensic psychiatrist to try to understand the killer's mind.
Then there is another death of a fan club president. Still no one will listen to him and look into these deaths as murders. Plus Elvis keeps receiving recordings of his songs but with twisted lyrics. Who can be sending these? Could they be related to the deaths?
In the meantime, Elvis goes to his class reunion and runs into Penny Woodruff, a classmate and former girlfriend.
Things are getting complicated and Elvis is constantly missing recording sessions in his quest to find a killer no one else is even looking for. His is constantly have to deal with his manager and childhood pals at Graceland. His interest in Selma is constantly growing, but what about Priscilla.
Elvis ends up putting himself and others in danger to discover the identity of the killer before there are any more deaths.
I found this to be a delightful mystery. The Elvis character was so well constructed, I often found myself wondering if these things really happened!
This is a terrific new series and I can't wait to read them all. You will not be disappointed! You won't want to put it down until the last page! I highly recommend it!
Loved it!.......2003-05-28
I'm not a big Elvis fan and when my husband brought this book home, I was reluctant to read it. Alas, with nothing left in the house to read, I had no choice (I am a serious book junkie!). I thought the book would be silly and rather tongue-in-cheek, but boy, was I wrong. This book is magnificent. It is a real page turner! I could hardly put the book down. Elvis plays a detective trying to figure out who is killing the young, female presidents of his fan clubs. He turns out to be an upstanding citizen and his character is portrayed as being very un-Hollywood. Elvis fights both crime and moral issues is this novel. The book is quite witty and, although I would like to say I did not know who the killer was until the end, it managed to keep my attention with the interplay between the characters. For those who like a suspense-ful novel with light-hearted brevity and a good, twisty plot, this book is a must read!
Presley (Private Eye).......2002-03-05
A fun read for most Elvis fans. The story is delightful
and fast paced with alot of twists to keep a mystery
reader happy. As a fan, I found myself wishing for a
few more details to be like the personal Elvis.
eg: language used was ok, but certain phrases
could have just as easy been used that Elvis was
known to say often. Ok..Ok... I'm picking but
all in all it was a fun book and worth a read and
a must for E collectors.
ElvisNews.com Review.......2002-01-21
Kill Me Tender by Daniel Klein
"Kill Me Tender" is a pure fiction "murder mystery" featuring Elvis Presley. Well, why not? There are many "fact"-books written about Elvis that are playing more or less fast and loose with those facts. At least the cover of this book states that this time it is fiction.
Elvis playing detective is not a strange idea at all, because it is a well-known fact Elvis had the hang of the police enforcement. Overall it is clear that the writer studied his main character pretty well. He does not only recommend Peter Guralnick's works, but it looks like he actually read them.
Daniel Klein took some liberties with stipulations as to time that catch the eye of the reader immediately, at least when the reader is an Elvis-fan. To the less fanatics those stipulations are just "Elvis-facts" that may seem in place. We can safely place the story in 1960, because most "facts" point to that. Elvis is home for just a couple of months after returning from Germany and "Elvis Is Back" is his latest album. Being a couple of weeks from the filming of "Take Me to The Fair" is in contradiction with this, because this movie (which became "It Happened At The World's Fair") was not filmed before the last quarter of 1962. Also a statue of Elvis in a jumpsuit and a TCB-belt do not really fit in the 1960-picture, because it took another decade before those things showed up. On first sight it looks strange that some of the Elvis-related people are mentioned by name, like Priscilla, Vernon, The Colonel and The Jordanaires, while Elvis' close friends are fictional.
Here we'll stop the hair-splitting. Assuming you like murder-mysteries at all this book is a nice read. It is fast, but demanding: it forces you to read on, even when you know you should go to sleep, because you have to go to work again the next day. The mystery starts when two young girls, both presidents of local fanclubs find an untimely death. Elvis gets involved and before you know it you are reading about P.I. Presley instead of G.I. Presley. There are some tender, touching moments, of course there is tension too and even humour can be spotted on several pages. In other words we enjoyed the book very much and therefore we won't say anything more about it, especially not regarding the story line. Not to give away the clue and to be sure we won't spoil your pleasure reading it!
Elvis would have loved this!.......2000-07-28
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Elvis comes off as a real live breathing human being, and Daniel Klein did a great job with the various characters. I especially liked the relationship of Elvis and Selma - very sweet and tender. Elvis in the book did a lot of the things that the Elvis in real life would love to have done. The mystery itself was intriguing - strange lethal drug killing fan club presidents - various characters appearing to be the likely suspect. I liked Selma so much that I was sad at the end - and the final phone call from overseas was a great ending. My only complaint was the overuse at times of crude language which did not always seem necessary. However, I enjoyed the book enough that I would definitely buy the next in the series. Jean Donovan
Book Description
A mystery thriller featuring Elvis Presley. On a warm summer night in 1964, twelve-year-old Robbie Donner's life is changed forever. He encounters hate, prejudice, and finally the ultimate evil-murder. In an effort to discover the identity of the killer who has been stalking his small mid-western town, he enlists the help of an unlikely community of allies that includes the King of Rock 'n' Roll. Presented with a kaleidoscope of mysteries, he, together with his faithful dog and boyhood gang, ventures deeper into danger. What follows is a story of friendship and courage, first-love and heartache, when Robbie and his friends go where they shouldn't go, and find much more than they bargained for. Travel back to the '60s: the land of transistor radios, souped-up muscle cars, the British Rock Invasion, the Drive-In, mini-skirts, and Stri-Dex Medicated Pads, where Winston Tastes Good Like a Cigarette Should-where Nick at Night is prime-time TV. As evil coils under the autumn sky, Robbie travels through the shifting prisms of his world, struggling to avert a looming cataclysm with the aid of his soul mate and an unlikely community of allies that includes the King of Rock 'n' Roll. His account of the summer of '64 when past and present, fate and destiny converge is the stuff of our worst nightmares and our fondest hopes.
Download Description
A mystery thriller featuring Elvis Presley. On a warm summer night in 1964, twelve-year-old Robbie Donner's life is changed forever. He encounters hate, prejudice, and finally the ultimate evil-murder. In an effort to discover the identity of the killer who has been stalking his small mid-western town, he enlists the help of an unlikely community of allies that includes the King of Rock 'n' Roll. Presented with a kaleidoscope of mysteries, he, together with his faithful dog and boyhood gang, ventures deeper into danger. What follows is a story of friendship and courage, first-love and heartache, when Robbie and his friends go where they shouldn't go, and find much more than they bargained for. Travel back to the '60s: the land of transistor radios, souped-up muscle cars, the British Rock Invasion, the Drive-In, mini-skirts, and Stri-Dex Medicated Pads, where Winston Tastes Good Like a Cigarette Should-where Nick at Night is prime-time TV.
Customer Reviews:
PAGE BURNER WITH SOLID PLOT.......2004-06-27
by Tim Robbins
This fun summer read goes down like popcorn: rich and buttery. The plot will satisfy mystery lovers. The dialogue and characterization of the kids works very well. You'll find yourself compelled to read just one more chapter before turning in for the night, cranking up the radio to an oldies station, and tucking the covers tightly under your chin.
GREAT PLOT AND GREAT HEROINE--TOO!.......2004-06-27
Susan Berkly a mystery fan. It was refreshing to have a strong female lead for a change. The girl of Robbie's dreams, Debbie, is not only credible but intelligent and resourceful: she matches her wits against the best of them. Her character grows in a steady rhythm and pace with the story, building to a peak at the climax. While this maybe written from the point of view of a young boy, the voice and mindset of the young girl was spot on. Her relationship with the main character enhanced the overall storyline. Enjoyable reading.
Book Review Weekly Tracy King.......2004-06-27
Told through the eyes of twelve-year-old Robbie Donner, this tale strongly echoes the childhood tales of King's "Stand by Me and IT," McCammon's "Boy's Life," and Bradbury's "Something Wicked This Way Comes," and is every bit their equal: a feast of bittersweet fantasy storytelling.... The mystery of the killer who is stalking the small-town inhabitants grows in intensity until it explodes in a ratcheting, jarring, and melodramatic climax. First love and first heartache combine with rocketing action and a strong, no-nonsense young girl who even steals most of the scenes from ELVIS and the young boy.
Travel back to the summer of 1964. A time when a transistor radio and a dog were as boy's best friend. A time when the country and the small town of Beaver River, Wisconsin were on the verge of change. And twelve-year-old Robbie Donner was also on the verge of change. "Part of me was still a kid in Toyland. But another part of me thirsted for drag-strip babes with long fake eyelashes and bullet bras that jutted from beneath tight sweaters. Thirsted for adventure: fast souped-up cars and cruising the gut, sneaking a smoke with your buddies--whatever grown-ups had told you not to do." Robbie Donner struggles to understand life, struggles to understand the forces of good and evil. He encounters hate, prejudice, and finally the ultimate evil-murder. "Death drove a '64 candy-apple-red GTO convertible. Its lake pipes roared as it sped up the gravel drive leaving a wake of dust as its signature. Chad Horne's left hand gripped the steering wheel tightly as his right hand flicked open a Zippo lighter filled with gasoline and brought it to the "Lucky Strike" cigarette dangling from his lip.
The suspense will satisfy the most demanding mystery lover... the celebrity-based fiction combines humor with rabid pacing and is top notch.
NEW MYSTERY FEATURING ELVIS.......2004-05-28
FROM THE PUBLISHER:
A mystery thriller featuring Elvis Presley.
On a warm summer night in 1964, twelve-year-old Robbie Donner's life is changed forever. He encounters hate and prejudice(at the hands of the (...)), and then finally the ultimate evil-murder.
In an effort to discover the identity of the killer who has been stalking his small mid-western town, he enlists the help of an unlikely community of allies that includes the King of Rock `n' Roll.
Presented with a kaleidoscope of mysteries, he, together with his faithful dog and boyhood gang, ventures deeper into danger. What follows is a story of friendship and courage, first-love and heartache, when Robbie and his friends go where they shouldn't go, and find much more than they bargained for...
Travel back to the `60s: the land of transistor radios, souped-up muscle cars, the British Rock Invasion, the Drive-In, mini-skirts, and Stri-Dex Medicated Pads, where Winston Tastes Good Like a Cigarette Should-where Nick at Night is prime-time TV.
As evil coils under the autumn sky, Robbie travels through the shifting prisms of his world, struggling to avert a looming cataclysm with the aid of his soul mate and even ...
the King--Elvis Presley. His account of the summer of `64 when past and present, fate and destiny converge is the stuff of our worst nightmares and our fondest hopes.
Customer Reviews:
Intimate view of Priscilla..........2007-01-08
This book is written by Michael Edwards- a former top male model and actor - who was Priscilla Presley's live in lover from 1978 to 1984.
It is the story from his perspective of their romance and his life with Priscilla.
It is written with unflinching honesty and it flows easily with its smooth, unpolished prose.
He blames the stress and problems they had in their relationship to the strain of living under the Presley name and legend, but after reading the book, it seems to me that their issues were caused more by a constant stream of drinking and fast living in Elvis's shadow.
I'm sure that Priscilla must have been enraged by this book as it holds back almost nothing, and after reading it, I can't say I blame her.
The most controversial part of the book and what I'm sure must have caused a small uproar when it came out back in 1988 , was Edwards own admission that he had romantic and sexual feelings for Lisa Marie when she was in her early teens.
I'm shocked that Mr.Edwards actually came out and admitted that.
He must have been raked over the coals about that when doing the inevitable publicity that one does for a book like this.
As an interesting footnote,I did an internet search using Michael Edwards name and came across a couple of interviews with Lisa Marie from 2003 and his name was brought up and she had an angry reaction, called Mr. Edwards a few choice names and said that she had hated him when he was with her Mother , which is a different picture than is painted in the book.
Of course this is a one sided view of events, but I'd recommend this book to anyone, who would like a glimpse into Priscilla's life in the immediate years following Elvis's death.
Waste of money.......2005-11-13
I was 2.5 when Elvis died. I did get a kiss from him as my late father ( whom i inheritated 2,00 books, cd's etc from him on Elvis). It is obvious Elvis appreciated his fans. It seems EVERYONE who was connected with him wrote a book. "Elvis And Me"- as I know the grammar is wrong and Priscilla knew but "Me" sounded better than "I."....well, Edwards was so desp for attention he added to the title for his own benefit. Even the BS books, they were page turners. I have read like 60 pages and am bored. Look at the first photo- a set of pics of him in uniform as well as Elvis. he used Priscilla for her fame to further her career and basically wanted Lisa at 14- close to the age of his daughter! I bet he would have loved to marry HER- a part of Elvis' flesh and blood. Elvis and me and now numerous books by the Preseleys, yes, Priscilla acts like a widow- bout from 14-2o something, he was all she knew...and we all know about Elvis' problems. But Elvis' well known affair with a redhead actress before he marrried even attended the funeral and Priscilla wrote kind words about her. As this book was in the works, I was an early teen and wrote her,and this was shortly after her son was born ( now he said she did not want another child- but later she did-and found the right man...obviously she felt doubts with him)and yes, although she kept the Presley last name, it is Lisa's last name. I would do the same..and Elvis and her were great friends after they split. She still fights for his image...despite the problems they had) and Priscilla wrote me back, sent me an 8X10 autographed photo- all with these distractions and knowing Edwards was going to do this. I will read the rest of the book, but despite he did have feelings for her, most of them were because of Elvis connections, as he compares himself to him- and used her for his career, if he truly loved and respected her, he would not have written this book.
Bullshit.......2005-07-12
Hi, I think this book is a piece of crap. The guy who wrote this book is a big looser. He has not comparision with Elvis at all. He wants to be better than Elvis trying to describe Elvis like stupid, fat and dump. He showed Priscilla like she was too much for Elvis. Also, this guy was kind the sick describing how he wanted to have sex with mother and daughter. I feel bad for Priscilla that had to live with this guy for 7 years. I actually this book make me feel soory for her. In conclusion, I don't believe what he said.
Elvis Gets Sweet Revenge!.......2004-08-16
Great book! Pretty much sums up what "Child Bride" by Suzanne Finstad was trying to tell people. Priscilla Presley besmirched Elvis in her book, "Elvis & Me." Now Elvis gets his sweet revenge through Mike Edwards tell-all. Great pictures included in the book and Ms. Presley appears to be quite happy. No signs of grief over the loss of Elvis here. What some people seem to forget is that Elvis is a very powerful man - in life and death!
Another Elvis Wannabe.......2000-08-18
This is a book about two people who used each other. Priscilla used Michael for his modeling connections and Michael used Priscilla just to be part of Elvis's world. I felt Michael was more in "love" with Elvis than he ever was with Priscilla. What he wrote about Lisa Marie I thought was really sad. She was a neglected and sad little rich girl. When Michael wrote about himself his actions were embarassing and egotistical. He was always comparing himself to Elvis. Priscilla sounded more into herself than with him or Lisa. It certainly did not help his career after his involvement with Priscilla Presley. The pictures in the book were wonderful! I think the book would of been better if Michael had help creating the stories in a format with better wording and deleted stories that had no basis to his life with Priscilla and Lisa.
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