Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael"/ Excerpt @pg151/New Interview Post 3743

[missred07]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

So if I would have said MJ was the reason or/and the cause for the fallout between the brothers would it be better for u then?

If you want me to discuss this matter then fine, I will do it.

Here is the situation. I said Frank and Eddie for out because of MJ. You came to conclusion and question him how come MJ became the person to blame. Is this right? Because I remembered that I said this. You came to that conclusion. Ivy and I then explained what Frank said in more detail.

I can totally understand why you drove that conclusion base on that one sentence. My point is if you actually read the book, you would know that Frank just explained the situation at that time. My opinion, after reading the whole part, I don't feel Frank blame the situation to MJ. My interpretation indeed is MJ is the reason, but I don't think Frank blamed that to MJ. I didn't get that vibe that he is blaming MJ for that. What I get is Eddie is angry about his brother and Eddie is angry about the fall out between MJ and Frank situation.

Of course, the things I wrote about is only my opinion. It doesn't mean everyone see the things like this. My point is if people go read the whole thing then come to conclusion that Frank blame MJ for this. I would have no problem with this, I would just said I don't agree with that opinion. However, I would accept people have different opinions of this issue. People interpret the same thing in different way.

My point is I only wanted to make sure that people just don't jump to the conclusion base on one sentence "frank and Eddie for out because of MJ". Maybe you want to argue that then don't put out summary. Yes, I started to regret I did that. At beginning I just wanted to share and give people some idea what topics Frank talked about in his book. People can decide whether they wanted to know all those things then decide whether they go to get the book. Now, I started to feel like I am like media report to make people just jump to the conclusion without knowing the whole things. This is the reason I stop to doing the summary although there are still people ask me where are the rest of the chapters.

As I said before, I personally got really angry about Frank couple days before the book released. However, I changed my opinion about many things after reading the whole books. I still have some questions to Frank. However, I do feel that it would be more fair if people read the whole thing then judge him. If you read the whole things and still think Frank blame MJ for everything, it's fine with me. I just don't agree with all.

I don't know if I explain this clear.

 

[Bridgett_361]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

sheesh lets critic the book but there is no need for such harsh judgement of Franks character
in that manner just becuase some of you dont personally like some of the things he wrote about.
There is nothing Bad, Hateful or Mean in his book - all that is coming from the people criticing
him rather than the book itself .[/QUOTE]

How you figue one not to call frank character into judgment if he gone and write about his best friend behind his back and sell it for profit?
What best friend do that?
We all remember a best friend in the passed who did that sell his best friend for 30 pieces of silver, frank did no less he will collect more than 30 pieces of silver for profiting because he was a trusted socalled. Friend to the most famous man in the world.
And we can't call out frank for this? Why every not?

 

[twinklEE]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

You think it's low because you assume Blanket doesn't know it

And you think he knows the details of his conception? The child was 7 when his father died, I highly doubt, Michael told him everything at that age. And even assuming Blanket knows, Frank still had no business in revealing the details of Blanket's egg donor, surrogate mother, whatever, just like the disgusting Jackson's had no business talking about all that. And I don't care if Roder Friedbrain already wrote a thousand stories on Blanket's surrogate, after Michael's death. He shouldn't have written about it. Some things are not meant for the public unless the person affected chooses to share it with the world. Frank mentioning this is just as disgusting as Latoya, Marlon, Tito, Rebbie, Janet mentioning/discussing/revealing/questioning these issues. And it's not disgusting because it's Frank doing so, but because it IS.

Frank could have left it at the paragraph you quoted earlier, but he went a step further, that is when he clearly crossed the line, just like the greedy Jackson's before him.

 

[soulmum]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

We all have a choice, to buy or not to buy. I chose to buy.

 

[bouee]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

I have a question for those who read the book, I have still not decided if I want to read it or not.
My question would be is Frank is telling the truth, or lying about certain parts.

Certain posters here pointed out things in the book that don't seem true to them : Liz not talking to Michael for a year after the MSG jewelery "incident", the reasons for the fall out between Michael and Frank.

Missred I think you said the part about Liz didn't seem so important the book, but my question is not if it seems important or not, my question would be do you think Frank is lying, or implying things that are not true ?

 

[ivy]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

It's not a matter of me realiseing the Jackson have make comment about the children, we all know the jackson's sins and we have come to expect them to sell MJ,
it's about you and how you make escuse for frank and his book, compleatly over looking the elephant in the room, frank sell out MJ... This is the issue MJ trust him, and the fact that he turn around and write a book after MJ died about MJ I find it distasteful, he should have maintain the trust, but I guess MJ never have true friends... they love the dead president more.
As for people judging frank well he write a book behind his "best friend" back, sell for profit.. for all we know frank sins agains MJ might not stop there, at no time the end justify the mean, positive or negative, high or low, frank wrong MJ... By selling there friendship for $$$$... What say you ivy?
So is. Frank a good person? I don't know am I going to judge frank? yes he write a tell all about his dead best friend leaving no stone unturned... Really not cool, leave us wondering who really did love MJ more then what he could do for them?

the problem with this that you act like your opinion is fact - that frank sold Michael. And do not realize that other people might have other opinions. To the realistic me , Michael jackson is the most famous person on earth and there will be books written about him for decades to come. I personally prefer to read books from people that knew Michael rather than random strangers.

no one here is in a position to know or determine what Michael would have wanted or be against. For example recently korgnex helping me with dieter weisner's book. He too has written his reason as to explain the real Michael and being thanked by katherine for doing it. Dileo has said similar things. So perhaps as all those people have said and as Michael sat down with Bashir , correcting misconceptions about him and showing his true self was important for him. So as I said we are in no place to determine for a fact how would have Michael felt.

If you want me to discuss this matter then fine, I will do it.

Here is the situation. I said Frank and Eddie for out because of MJ. You came to conclusion and question him how come MJ became the person to blame. Is this right? Because I remembered that I said this. You came to that conclusion. Ivy and I then explained what Frank said in more detail.

I can totally understand why you drove that conclusion base on that one sentence. My point is if you actually read the book, you would know that Frank just explained the situation at that time. My opinion, after reading the whole part, I don't feel Frank blame the situation to MJ. My interpretation indeed is MJ is the reason, but I don't think Frank blamed that to MJ. I didn't get that vibe that he is blaming MJ for that. What I get is Eddie is angry about his brother and Eddie is angry about the fall out between MJ and Frank situation.

Of course, the things I wrote about is only my opinion. It doesn't mean everyone see the things like this. My point is if people go read the whole thing then come to conclusion that Frank blame MJ for this. I would have no problem with this, I would just said I don't agree with that opinion. However, I would accept people have different opinions of this issue. People interpret the same thing in different way.

My point is I only wanted to make sure that people just don't jump to the conclusion base on one sentence "frank and Eddie for out because of MJ". Maybe you want to argue that then don't put out summary. Yes, I started to regret I did that. At beginning I just wanted to share and give people some idea what topics Frank talked about in his book. People can decide whether they wanted to know all those things then decide whether they go to get the book. Now, I started to feel like I am like media report to make people just jump to the conclusion without knowing the whole things. This is the reason I stop to doing the summary although there are still people ask me where are the rest of the chapters.

As I said before, I personally got really angry about Frank couple days before the book released. However, I changed my opinion about many things after reading the whole books. I still have some questions to Frank. However, I do feel that it would be more fair if people read the whole thing then judge him. If you read the whole things and still think Frank blame MJ for everything, it's fine with me. I just don't agree with all.

I don't know if I explain this clear.

So if I would have said MJ was the reason or/and the cause for the fallout between the brothers would it be better for u then?

actually I have been thinking about it. When frank and eddie make up the first question he asks is who told Michael that he wouldn't testify. That's the person he blames. The rest is just seems to be heartbreak for everyone. Frank being heart broken that Michael and his own brother would believe to this person over him. So any blame and/or reason seems to this unknown person.

 

[Vici]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

"What Michael didn't bother to explain, and what Bashir didn't care to ask about, was that Michael's suite at Neverland, as I've said before, was a gathering place, with a family room downstairs and a bedroom upstairs. Michael didn't explain that people hung out there, and sometimes they wanted to stay over."

This is exactly what Mac Culkin told Larry King in 2006.

CULKIN: Nothing happened. You know, nothing really. I mean, we played video games. We, you know, played at his amusement park.

KING: Did he sleep in the bed?

CULKIN: The thing is with that whole thing, oh, you slept in the same bedroom as him. It's like, I don't think you understand, Michael Jackson's bedroom is two stories and it has like three bathrooms and this and that. So, when I slept in his bedroom, yes, but you understand the whole scenario. And the thing is with Michael he's not good as explaining himself and he never really has been, because he's not a very social person. You're talking about someone who has been sheltered and sheltering himself also for the last like 30 years. And so, he's not very good at communicating to people and not good at conveying what he's actually trying to say to you. So, when he says something like that people -- he doesn't quite understand why people react the way that they do.

 

[ivy]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

I have a question for those who read the book, I have still not decided if I want to read it or not.
My question would be is Frank is telling the truth, or lying about certain parts.

Certain posters here pointed out things in the book that don't seem true to them : Liz not talking to Michael for a year after the MSG jewelery "incident", the reasons for the fall out between Michael and Frank.

Missred I think you said the part about Liz didn't seem so important the book, but my question is not if it seems important or not, my question would be do you think Frank is lying, or implying things that are not true ?

I think that will be a question for you to determine. What I can say is this Frank doesn't possess all the information and all the perfect information. and he says so in multiple instances. Such as what he knew what he didn't know, what he learned later on and so on and so on.

For example similar to Michael seeing Lisa Marie for 4 years after the divorce but Frank's path never crossing with Lisa Marie. Michael could have been talking/ seeing Elizabeth and Frank didn't know it or he might have known it but exaggerated in the book. Who knows? Whether it was a lie or whether it was misinformation is something that you would have to decide for yourself.

 

[Rhilo]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

Ivy, what have you decided since you've read the book in full, and have also read accounts of the inconsistencies between Frank's version of events and actual events - what do you reckon?

 

[ivy]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

Ivy, what have you decided since you've read the book in full, and have also read accounts of the inconsistencies between Frank's version of events and actual events - what do you reckon?

decide in sense of what? and what inconsistencies? can you be more specific?

 

[Bridgett_361]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

the problem with this that you act like your opinion is fact - that frank sold Michael. And do not realize that other people might have other opinions. To the realistic me , Michael jackson is the most famous person on earth and there will be books written about him for decades to come. I personally prefer to read books from people that knew Michael rather than random strangers.

Well fact frank collected money for information he knew about his best friend, I don't know what do you call that?
I am not dogging you or any not to read frank book, I am saying what frank did is not ok, imagine MJ writing a book about his close relationship with liz telling all kind of information most did not know about and collecting money for it? What would you call that? An act of betrayal,
I guess it too much to ask a friend to keep there mouth close for the sake of one friendship and love.
Or I maybe wrong frank did not collect a penny it's all about showing a side of MJ to us his loveing fan we did not know about.

 

[ivy]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

Well fact frank collected money for information he knew about his best friend, I don't know what do you call that?
I am not dogging you or any not to read frank book, I am saying what frank did is not ok, imagine MJ writing a book about his close relationship with liz telling all kind of information most did not know about and collecting money for it? What would you call that? An act of betrayal,
I guess it too much to ask a friend to keep there mouth close for the sake of one friendship and love.
Or I maybe wrong frank did not collect a penny it's all about showing a side of MJ to us his loveing fan we did not know about.

everyone is making money in some way. everyone is being paid for the books, tributes, interviews and even for licensing photos and videos. so there's no one out there that does stuff for "free". Selling out in my book is something done against the wishes and as I said I'm not sure if it's against Michael's wishes. The reality is that I don't know Michael and do not know what's in his mind and there has been a common belief in everyone that they should have correct the misconceptions and explain the real Michael. And it's not Frank only, almost everyone said the same thing. So who knows really? So I try to approach to everything on the content basis, didn't like Latoya's book, Gest documentary was okay, Jermaine's book was above average and I like Frank's book. That's my personal take. You agree, disagree , all is fine with me.

And you are kinda dogging me and others with posts like "don't make excuses" , "stop defending" etc comments. As you are free to dislike the book, I should be free to like it and not be portrayed as someone like evil or enemy.

 

[missred07]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

I have a question for those who read the book, I have still not decided if I want to read it or not.
My question would be is Frank is telling the truth, or lying about certain parts.

Certain posters here pointed out things in the book that don't seem true to them : Liz not talking to Michael for a year after the MSG jewelery "incident", the reasons for the fall out between Michael and Frank.

Missred I think you said the part about Liz didn't seem so important the book, but my question is not if it seems important or not, my question would be do you think Frank is lying, or implying things that are not true ?

I think it would be leave to the reader to tell. For the Liz's part, in my point of view, I think he was either remembered thing wrong or he is in impression that Liz didn't talk to MJ for a long time. I don't see any reason why he intend to lie about this thing. To paint Liz in a bad way??? We all know that Liz and Michael had great relationship till the end. They probably would have some mis communication toward each other just like all the other friends. This is why I think this part is not really so important.

As the book in general about whether he is telling the truth. I believe the first half, he was telling the truth. They don't have any conflict interest at that time. I don't see why he would lie about things during that time.

After he started to work with MJ, I think most of the part he was still telling the truth. However, keep in mind that the truth doesn't equal to the fact. This is his side of story from his eyes. Just like LMP, it's obvious she and MJ had totally different story to tell about the same thing. Things would be quite complicated when you have all those people and money and interest get involved. I do have some doubt that Frank might not unfold the whole things or he tried to tell the story in a way to say all he wanted to do is protecting MJ. Maybe he actually take some advantage of MJ behind MJ's back (the things he already revealed like he would bring people to MJ's place to have parties etc) to make MJ think he betrayed him and he just didn't mention all that in the book. So the second part, I think people should read with grand of salt. Keep an open mind and to see whether there's another side of the story.

 

[Lucilla]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

And you think he knows the details of his conception? The child was 7 when his father died, I highly doubt, Michael told him everything at that age. And even assuming Blanket knows, Frank still had no business in revealing the details of Blanket's egg donor, surrogate mother, whatever, just like the disgusting Jackson's had no business talking about all that. And I don't care if Roder Friedbrain already wrote a thousand stories on Blanket's surrogate, after Michael's death. He shouldn't have written about it. Some things are not meant for the public unless the person affected chooses to share it with the world. Frank mentioning this is just as disgusting as Latoya, Marlon, Tito, Rebbie, Janet mentioning/discussing/revealing/questioning these issues. And it's not disgusting because it's Frank doing so, but because it IS.

Frank could have left it at the paragraph you quoted earlier, but he went a step further, that is when he clearly crossed the line, just like the greedy Jackson's before him.

:agree:

 

[love is magical]

I completed reading the book last night. I’m deeply moved by the book. I never expected Frank Cascio to pull my heartstrings with his personal accounts – but he did.</SPAN>

When I was about to start Part II of the book, I was skeptical. I even hesitated to turn the page. It’s still very difficult for me to read about Michael’s struggles and how he suffered psychologically after the 1993 allegations and physically after the 1999 bridge fall accident in Munich. But, once I got through it, I feel I can finally face this period of Michael’s life. After reading this book, some of my bitterness is gone. It’s difficult for me to describe this feeling in words. I guess you have to read it to understand it. But still, different people will come up with a different conclusion. </SPAN>

Ivy was right when she said what Frank did is to put things in context. In the book, Frank did a great job in explaining Michael’s drug dependency issues. He described Michael’s pains, frustrations, stress in such a way that readers can feel for Michael. Michael worked on his issues and tried his best to overcome them. However, the forces against Michael were simply too much for any man to handle. After reading the issues Michael Jackson had to deal with on a daily basis, who could blame Michael for his paranoia? Who could blame him if he just wanted to escape the harsh reality and obtained a peace of mind for just a few hours? </SPAN>

Yes, Michael Jackson was not perfect. He could be demanding (calling his assistant at 3 am to complain about a dead flamingo? Only you, Michael ) He had trust issues. He could cut people out mercilessly. But, he’s only a human, a truly great man who tried his best. Deep in Michael’s core, he’s one loving and caring person. Frank did stress that fact.</SPAN>

The book is not without its shortcomings. I still believe Frank simplified a lot of what’s going on in Michael’s businesses during the late 90’s and the early 2000’s. May be he’s just not privy to many of the business dealings. In his eyes, people are two-dimensional. The good people were loyal and bright. The bad people in “Michael’s organization” were selfish, greedy and were out to get him – the new kid who tried to protect Michael’s interest. The way he described John McClain makes him look like a clueless and heartless man. Why would John McClain want to fire Brad Buxer and “Karen Smith?” It makes no sense to me. Michael still named him as one of the executors of his Estate. So, Michael still trusted McClain. And, would the people in Michael’s circle pay that much attention to a 20 year-old personal assistant? Didn’t they have bigger target to worry about? At the end of the day, I still have no idea whether Frank was being completely honest, especially about the fall-out between him and Michael. </SPAN>

Also, in my opinion, this book unveiled part of Michael’s mysterious mask. This book humanized Michael. Yet, it also unavoidably took away some of Michael’s magical aura. </SPAN>

After reading the book, my opinion is changed and I agree with the following:</SPAN>

In terms of Michael's legacy, I look at the bigger picture far beyond us, this is a book from someone who was there, he witnessed it and he can categorically state that Michael was not a pervert, he was human, had some flaws but over all had the purest of hearts. I am not saying 'this book above all others' I am simply saying that in the bigger picture it has it's place.

</SPAN>

Just a few days ago, I asked what can this book achieved. In the short run, I don’t think this book can do anything to enhance Michael’s legacy. I’m still disappointed at the negative attention this book has generated. Furthermore, this book is simply not powerful enough to cause an overwhelming shift in public misconception.</SPAN>

Nevertheless, we have to keep in mind Michael Jackson will outlive all of us here. He will outlive this generation – the generation who grew up listening to the derogatory “wacko *****” tagline and has been brainwashed by decades of deliberate character attacks. The “drug addict” headlines will definitely be disappeared one day. There will be a day when people want to study Michael Jackson objectively. One day in the future, a scholar would like to write a comprehensive biography on Michael Jackson. The information provided by Frank is going to be beneficial. </SPAN>

I understand we have all the court transcripts to prove how wrong the accusations were. We have all the masterpieces that showcase Michael’s genius and talents. Still, this book has a place because it comes from an individual who stayed in Michael’s bedroom hundreds of times when he was a kid. He firmly stated repeatedly that nothing inappropriate ever took place. Again, will it change public misconception now? No. If Nelson Mandela could not change public misconception, then Frank Cascio can’t possible do anything. But, in the long run, I’m talking about beyond my lifetime, Frank’s account will be valuable because the future generation can see things without ignorance and bias. </SPAN>

As I said before, I personally got really angry about Frank couple days before the book released. However, I changed my opinion about many things after reading the whole books. I still have some questions to Frank.

</SPAN>

Just wanna say I share your sentiments and understand your points.</SPAN>

 

[Staffordshire Bullterrier]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

I'm not gonna go through this whole thread. But i did read the post about Frank's explanations of the 'bedroom sharing' where so many people who watched that lousy excuse for a documentary 'Living with MJ' made a huge deal out of. I REALLY apreciate finally someone in a book telling it how it is, that MJ's intentions were nothing but sincere and good, nothing evil or anything. FINALLY!!!! Wow. Or how some books generally talk positive about MJ..but somewhere in there it gives slight doubt about MJ and his intentions...none of that apparently, really good!!!

That said....i really don't think it was a good idea of him to write about the surrogate mother of his children. But hold on, didn't we already know that Debbie 'gave' MJ a child? I have to admit that i don't know much else about this, i honestly don't even know whom of the three children were from Debbie. But apart from that the book sounds good...unless i missed other 'negative' parts?

 

[love is magical]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

I also want to add that the decision for me to buy and read this book is not an easy one.

I have gone from "no, i'm not going to buy a tell-all book," to "yeah... may be i should give this book a chance to learn more about michael," to "no, i'm not going to read anything about michael, the situational addict," to "yeah, let me read about the inspirational stories about michael."

At the end of the day, I do not regret buying this book.

 

[missred07]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

^ Great post (#2865 one)! Love is Magical. I can't put it in a better way.

 

[Resa]

A review from MJFC


My Friend Michael: A Review


(21-11-2011) Michael Jackson was a human being, just like the rest of us. An amazing man who lead a remarkable life to be sure &#8211; but a man, just the same. That is the prevailing notion one walks away with after reading Frank Cascio's My Friend Michael: An Ordinary Friendship With an Extraordinary Man. Cascio attempts to introduce us to the Michael Jackson that he knew and loved for over twenty years, the man that was to him a friend, a brother, a parent, a teacher, a mentor and ultimately a boss. Simply put, to Frank Cascio, Michael Jackson was family and this book chronicles the building of that family and how their experiences together both shaped and stressed that family dynamic over the years. Reading this book is a sort of mixed bag of blessings and curses: there were times that brought genuine smiles of delight as well as out right laughter at Cascio's descriptions of their antics over the years. But there were also moments of utter disappointment at Cascio's decision to include stories that were perhaps better left untold to the world.

The best thing about My Friend Michael is Cascio's openness, his ability to pour out his heart in describing the Jackson that he knew. Cascio manages to paint the most charming picture of Jackson as this amazing father figure who was like a third parent to him growing up and all the many life lessons he taught him and continued to teach him even into adulthood. He makes Jackson sound like the perfect parent, born to be a natural father. He defends his friend fiercely against rumors of inappropriate behavior and sets the record straight on other issues that dogged Michael Jackson in the press for years. One can easily feel the love, respect, admiration and loyalty that Cascio felt, and still feels, for this incredible man.

But the book's greatest strength is perhaps also its greatest weakness. Cascio is, at times too open and one can't help wondering why he would be so candid now, after literally a lifetime of protecting Jackson's privacy. Just as there are moments of real joy to be found in reading My Friend Michael, there are also the occasional moments of disappointment as Cascio appears to fall into an all-too-familiar trap that so many authors do when writing about Michael Jackson. However, even though there are momentary lapses into the realm of sensationalism, they are tempered with the obvious respect and loyalty of someone who loved Jackson deeply. One doesn't get the feeling that this is just another 'cash in,' but rather an honest attempt to show the real Michael Jackson as the wonderful, talented, intelligent, flawed human being that he was.

There are a few surprises here, stories and anecdotes about Jackson that the public has never heard before. Many that are sure to delight Jackson fans. There are also new spins on familiar stories as Cascio offers his take, giving us the details from his point of view.

Oftentimes, family is not the group of people you were born into but the group of people you surround yourself with, and what My Friend Michael really offers is a view of Jackson that we've never really had before. A more complete picture of Michael the man, Michael the human being. What it was like to live in his world and be part of his family. Despite its character flaws, Cascio's book is an enjoyable read, a wonderful book that introduces the world to the Michael Jackson that fans knew well &#8211; the kind-hearted, fun-loving, prankster that loved children and the purity and innocence of Neverland. A man, like any other, who had his hopes and dreams, his doubts and frustrations.

That said... be aware that there are parts that are a bit uncomfortable at times. But it is this reviewer's opinion that the good outweighs the bad with this one.

http://www.mjfanclub.net/home/index....view&Itemid=82

 

[loveforever]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

think it would be hard to tell. For the Liz's part, in my point of view, I think he was either remembered thing wrong or he is in impression that Liz didn't talk to MJ for a long time. I don't see any reason why he intend to lie about this thing.

For the sake of writing a story cause the truth has no story value? some media exposure and publicity? isn't this the story he gave media when he announced his new book deal? To me it's the mockery to mj/liz's relationship.

some think the inaccuracy of Liz's part is not sufficient, I disagree. To me it showed how truthful/accurate his book is, we cannot confirm everything Frank wrote it's truthful or not because Michael is not here to tell us; but when the things we do know didn't match with the things he described, how could we trust him with the rest bit of the book. How can we sure he didn't manipulate the events? Some fans tweet Karen Fyre about the AP article of this book and asked her the feedback, she said there were some inaccuracy just in that bit of excerpt, she also revealed she also recieved some book offers but she turned them down because the publishers want dirts.

In this whole book, he portrayed himself as the protector of MJ, kept saying how potective he was to Michael... However, "Actions speak louder than words", from the media's reports, his 20/20 interview, to the very private things about MJ he shouldn't put in this book, his actions seemed very contradict to what he tried to portray himself in this book.

 

[Ingelief]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

Correct me if I am wrong.

Frank brought in someone to help MJ's financial problem. They tried to cut down the unnecessary people and branch in MJ's empire. Lots of people just spent MJ's money flying all over the world and do nothing. Base one Frank said, MJ agreed and wanted him and those two people work on it. Frank said lot of people got mad about this and start talking bad things to MJ like Frank is devil etc. Those two people eventually got fired and didn't get their salary for working for MJ. They sued MJ. Frank felt terrible but think he didn't do anything wrong. MJ was also mad about Frank telling him that he had to be careful who he brought in MJ's life. He disagree with MJ's opinion.
Later on, Al Malink sent a letter to Michael told MJ that Frank asked money to deliver the deal to MJ. MJ told this to Frank's parents about this and said can you believe Frank do this? Frank's father told MJ that it's no way Frank would do such thing and MJ should know that since he knew frank since he was a kid. Frank's father told Frank about this. Frank got angry about this and basically went to MJ said he didn't want to work with him anymore because his integrity is questioned. He cared about MJ and only want MJ the best. He can't believe MJ would doubt his loyalty. He wanted to go back and just to be friend of MJ and not working relationship anymore. MJ tried to keep him said that he didn't believe those things said about Frank. However, Frank said MJ did believe those things in heart. He insisted to leave and MJ let him go and said he wanted Frank to be happy. So he took a break and went back to NY.

Ok thx, and the next fallout was in 2005 with the testimony story. Why did it take a year or two to get that fixed? Seems so stupid they look like good friends. Its always so a waste to fight with good friends in my eyes. And michael felt so alone most of the time so he needed frank IMO

 

[bouee]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

I also want to add that the decision for me to buy and read this book is not an easy one.

I have gone from "no, i'm not going to buy a tell-all book," to "yeah... may be i should give this book a chance to learn more about michael," to "no, i'm not going to read anything about michael, the situational addict," to "yeah, let me read about the inspirational stories about michael.".

That's where I am right now. Well actually I ordered the book a few minutes ago, but I have no idea when I'm going to receive it, amazon say they're out of stock, so I'll keep on reading here, and who knows, maybe I'm going to change my mind again, and return it....

A lot of what people who read it write here are things that I already knew about Michael. And it's true that Michael himself wanted to correct misconceptions about him when he did the Bashit doc. I'm glad it's not sugar coated, that wouldn't be the point.

I have no issue about Frank writing about the allegations, and the drug issues. If Michael had drug issues in the past, well it happens to thousands of people every year. I should know , it happened in my family. Cooley said it had become one of the most imortant cause of death in the US. So I guess a lot of people can relate to that.
Frank says, and all of us who followed Murray's trial know that Michael had dealt with his issues. He was in good health, he was taking less medication than what was prescribed, not one single pill of anything was found hidden in his private room, and even spent 3 months with nurse Lee trying to solve his insomnia problem with nutritional supplements
Clearly, not everyone is able to deal with this kind of issues. You have to be very strong, and obviously Michael was.
So if Frank puts that into perspective and explains how it happened and how Michael was able to solve his problem, to me that's great, and will certainly be helpful to a lot of people.

I'm on the fence about the kids, and I understand what some of you said about wow Blanket was conceived. But at the same time, things were clear for me since the Bashit doc. So there's nothing new here. I understand that some of you say it shoudn't be in the book, to respect Blanket's privacy. But the paternity of the kids will always be discussed in the media. So I don't know, not talking about it is also not good, IMO.

Now, honestly, don't expect the media to change overnight about Michael. That's the way it is. The problem is not only the media, it's also the way some people are. Michael was aquitted in 2005, it did change SOME people's minds, but not everyone's.
Some people will always believe the crazy stories, just because they are crazy, and because they need to blame and hate.

Murray's trial was on TV, on the internet, it was easy for everyone to follow, but you'll still have people who will think that Michael caused his own death, or don't know why Murray was found guilty.

Frank's book could be the best book in the world, you'd still have some of the media twisting things, and some people who will believe what they want to believe.

 

[Ingelief]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

Im out of my thinking and decided i want to read the book. Now is the question how do i get it? In holland it isnt out yet or at all.... Thx to ivy and missred you inspired me to read it. Thx both for helping and wonderfull posts!!!

Also can you download it??

edit: I can buy it in english ofcourse, is it hard to read in english, difficult words?? *im not native english*

 

[Bridgett_361]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

And you are kinda dogging me and others with posts like "don't make excuses" , "stop defending" etc comments. As you are free to dislike the book, I should be free to like it and not be portrayed as someone like evil or enemy.[/QUOTE]

I never say. You are evil or the enemy, I say you side line the main issue some have withe book.
As for dogging I am sorry I will put a leash on my finger,

 

[KOPV]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

Just to take in.... I remember back on Friday I think it was people were complaining about how Frank "abandon" Michael durring the trial etc and were mad at him.. Well if those people wernt so against the book they would read why Michael and Frank had no contact durring that time.. Another reason why I say if MJ fans want to act like they know what they are talking about than we need to NOT act like haters a pick and choose what we allow in to get the full story before we attack someone..

 

[Ingelief]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

Just to take in.... I remember back on Friday I think it was people were complaining about how Frank "abandon" Michael durring the trial etc and were mad at him.. Well if those people wernt so against the book they would read why Michael and Frank had no contact durring that time.. Another reason why I say if MJ fans want to act like they know what they are talking about than we need to NOT act like haters a pick and choose what we allow in to get the full story before we attack someone..

agree kopv

 

[Ingelief]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

but how difficult is the english in this book? and there photos in it right?

 

[HumanNature2210]

Love is magical, thanks for the balance review of the book. I am still waiting anxiously for mine to arrive and I am looking forward to read it with an open mind. I somewhat believe Frank's intention is good - to share with others who did not, the experience that he had with Michael, the wonderful human being, who despite his genius and talents, also has his flaws. Also, I think that its best that all the good and bad to be in the book (so far, the good seems to outnumbered the bad) so that it is believable account otherwise, it will be seen as a bias account and accused of trying to "paint" Michael as a "saint". Although I have not got the book yet, it seems to humanize Michael more even for the "not so nice stuff" and trying to get the reader to understand from his/MJ's point of view.

I completed reading the book last night. I’m deeply moved by the book. I never expected Frank Cascio to pull my heartstrings with his personal accounts – but he did.</SPAN>

When I was about to start Part II of the book, I was skeptical. I even hesitated to turn the page. It’s still very difficult for me to read about Michael’s struggles and how he suffered psychologically after the 1993 allegations and physically after the 1999 bridge fall accident in Munich. But, once I got through it, I feel I can finally face this period of Michael’s life. After reading this book, some of my bitterness is gone. It’s difficult for me to describe this feeling in words. I guess you have to read it to understand it. But still, different people will come up with a different conclusion. </SPAN>

Ivy was right when she said what Frank did is to put things in context. In the book, Frank did a great job in explaining Michael’s drug dependency issues. He described Michael’s pains, frustrations, stress in such a way that readers can feel for Michael. Michael worked on his issues and tried his best to overcome them. However, the forces against Michael were simply too much for any man to handle. After reading the issues Michael Jackson had to deal with on a daily basis, who could blame Michael for his paranoia? Who could blame him if he just wanted to escape the harsh reality and obtained a peace of mind for just a few hours? </SPAN>

Yes, Michael Jackson was not perfect. He could be demanding (calling his assistant at 3 am to complain about a dead flamingo? Only you, Michael ) He had trust issues. He could cut people out mercilessly. But, he’s only a human, a truly great man who tried his best. Deep in Michael’s core, he’s one loving and caring person. Frank did stress that fact.</SPAN>

The book is not without its shortcomings. I still believe Frank simplified a lot of what’s going on in Michael’s businesses during the late 90’s and the early 2000’s. May be he’s just not privy to many of the business dealings. In his eyes, people are two-dimensional. The good people were loyal and bright. The bad people in “Michael’s organization” were selfish, greedy and were out to get him – the new kid who tried to protect Michael’s interest. The way he described John McClain makes him look like a clueless and heartless man. Why would John McClain want to fire Brad Buxer and “Karen Smith?” It makes no sense to me. Michael still named him as one of the executors of his Estate. So, Michael still trusted McClain. And, would the people in Michael’s circle pay that much attention to a 20 year-old personal assistant? Didn’t they have bigger target to worry about? At the end of the day, I still have no idea whether Frank was being completely honest, especially about the fall-out between him and Michael. </SPAN>

Also, in my opinion, this book unveiled part of Michael’s mysterious mask. This book humanized Michael. Yet, it also unavoidably took away some of Michael’s magical aura. </SPAN>

After reading the book, my opinion is changed and I agree with the following:</SPAN>

</SPAN>

Just a few days ago, I asked what can this book achieved. In the short run, I don’t think this book can do anything to enhance Michael’s legacy. I’m still disappointed at the negative attention this book has generated. Furthermore, this book is simply not powerful enough to cause an overwhelming shift in public misconception.</SPAN>

Nevertheless, we have to keep in mind Michael Jackson will outlive all of us here. He will outlive this generation – the generation who grew up listening to the derogatory “wacko *****” tagline and has been brainwashed by decades of deliberate character attacks. The “drug addict” headlines will definitely be disappeared one day. There will be a day when people want to study Michael Jackson objectively. One day in the future, a scholar would like to write a comprehensive biography on Michael Jackson. The information provided by Frank is going to be beneficial. </SPAN>

I understand we have all the court transcripts to prove how wrong the accusations were. We have all the masterpieces that showcase Michael’s genius and talents. Still, this book has a place because it comes from an individual who stayed in Michael’s bedroom hundreds of times when he was a kid. He firmly stated repeatedly that nothing inappropriate ever took place. Again, will it change public misconception now? No. If Nelson Mandela could not change public misconception, then Frank Cascio can’t possible do anything. But, in the long run, I’m talking about beyond my lifetime, Frank’s account will be valuable because the future generation can see things without ignorance and bias. </SPAN>

</SPAN>

Just wanna say I share your sentiments and understand your points.</SPAN>

Missred07, thank you so much for your summary/review. You did a great job and they are very much appreciated. I could not stop crying and grinning reading the summaries. It's kind of sad that you (like Frank) are make to feel bad for trying to be nice and sharing what you read with others. I believe a lot of us appreciate if very much - THANK YOU!

Ivy, I do understand your sentiment about not judging until you read the book and your life experience after 911. I come from South East Asia (I am a Chinese Asian and I grew up in a multiracial society and have a lot of classmates who are muslim) and I truly understand as I moved to different countries to work and went through similar situations. You have been extremely fair and balance throughout. Also, thank you for arranging the Q&A session and all your work here especially the Trial.

I am a lurker here and I logged on for as many as 10 hours a day on MJJC but I don't like to comment much because I do not like confrontation. Also, unlike many posters like Love is Magical, Ivy, bouee and others, who express themselves beautifully, I don't write (English is not the language that I am educated in for the first 12 years of my life) nor express myself that well.

I can see some fans are not happy with the book regardless of what is written and so far, the main reason being they don't like the idea of friends sharing/"backstabbing" Michael. Perhaps, Ivy it would be a good idea to advice that they don't visit this thread if they do not want to read any personal experience about Michael. There seems to be so much "hate" and negativity in the past 50 pages since then and I believe like the Cascio songs, there will be split opinions. No matter how good Franks intention in sharing a particular experience, some fans will dissect and twist it around and portray it as reflecting negatively on Michael. Why clash over when minds are made up.

Lastly, I fully agree with Love is Magical opinion that perhaps in the long run (after all the nasty things are in the background), people will be able to see clearer who Michael is. Hopefully, this book will help to understand the beautiful Michael, the wonderfully gifted, talented, kind, generous human being. So far I am happy that books like "The Man Behind the mask", "Unmasked", "Be careful who you love" are slowly being replace with positive books like this.

 

[Vici]

"My mother was with Michael when he picked up the baby from the surrogate&#8217;s representative at a hotel. They brought baby Prince Michael Jackson II back to Neverland on a private luxury bus."

Does anyone else recall Brian Oxman saying he went to pick up baby Blanket from the hospital and brought him to Michael.. ??

 

[bouee]

Re: Frank Cascio "My Friend Michael" book release date Nov 15 ,2011 / Excerpt posted at @pg151

Im out of my thinking and decided i want to read the book. Now is the question how do i get it? In holland it isnt out yet or at all.... Thx to ivy and missred you inspired me to read it. Thx both for helping and wonderfull posts!!!

Also can you download it??

edit: I can buy it in english ofcourse, is it hard to read in english, difficult words?? *im not native english*

On Amazon website, books in English section, you can read parts of the book, so you can see for yourself if the level of English is difficult. You can download it from Amazon, you'll need a Kindle or download the application to read it (from Amazon too, check, but I think the app is free)