Cagney by Cagney

Cagney By Cagney Is such an enjoyable book not only about James Cagney himself but also gives insight into the film industry of the time. We learn how he grew up in poverty, about his parents and siblings, his education and how he came to be an actor. His memories of his childhood friends and not so friendly people and how he used these memories in many of the characters he played on screen. The man he became and how he got to that point is just plain good reading and answered the questions, the many questions I had about this wonderful actor.

I could not put this book down! I read it in a day! I recently rediscovered this book, and boy am I glad that I did. I love the passages about his early childhood they were so vibrant so full of life. His loving relationship with his mother and siblings. There were many funny stories like the one about the Eastside Kids and Bogart. There were also many touching stories. Especially the one about his mom's death. Reading this book also reminded me that not only was he a good tough guy, but he was a great song and dance man too!! Cagney by Cagney is reccommended to anyone who loves James Cagney. He was definitely one of a kind.

Fascinating insights into the man who captured Americas heart. I've had this book since it was published the first time...it's yellowed with age, but worth reading again...and again. THIS is the book he wanted to reveal himself in and I think this is the only book about his life that really counts.

This book is for the true fan of James Cagney. Mr. Cagney tells his story as no one can -- straightforward and to the point. He pulls no punches and puts to rest the ages old tale about the line, "you dirty rat." Easy reading and extremely enjoyable.(This is my second reading!)

What a difference a book can make. Anyone that thinks that Jim Cagney is only a hoodlum is missing out on the biggest part of the man. "Once a song and dance man always a song and dance man" Mr. Cagney was a hoofer in his heart along with being a pretty darn good poet. All of this and more honest insights into the people in his life and his fellings on being James Cagney. Truly a must for anyone who finds the actor fascinating. Worth the effort in finding this rare book.