"Leave 'em wanting more."

By focusing on the first half of the fascinating Johnny Cash's life, Walk the Line inadvertently reeled audiences in, and then left the newly initiated hoping that sequels would become the new trend in biopics. But unless the filmmakers know something we don't, newly intrigued viewers can't bank on such a convenient way to wrap things up. Besides, even if they are planning such a move, is waiting another 2 or 3 years for it to happen really that "convenient"?

So, what to do? You may have noticed in the movie's opening credits that the film was based on Johnny Cash's two autobiographies. And both of those are indeed great reads, though the most recent doesn't cover the last five years of Cash's life, which were potent both artistically and personally. Hence, I'm recommending that you pick up a copy of Steve Turner's fantastic Cash biography which released in 2004 and is titled: "THE MAN CALLED CASH: The Life, Love and Faith of an American Legend."

Did I mention this is Cash's only life-encompassing AUTHORIZED biography? Yes, that means the author had the complete cooperation of Cash's friends and family--can you say "inside scoop"?

And the author himself? Steve Turner is not only one of the United Kingdom's most respected rock journalists (who's written repeatedly for Mojo, Rolling Stone and Q Magazine), but he's also a believer who was profoundly influenced by the ministry of Francis Schaeffer. And trivia buffs will be interested to know that it was Christian recording artist/producer/film director Steve Taylor that recommended Steve Turner for the project to the book's publisher, W Publishing Group. Furthermore, the book is endorsed by the Rev. Billy Graham, Cash's dear friend Kris Kristofferson and many others.

So while you're doing yourself the favor of picking up a copy of "THE MAN CALLED CASH," keep your friends in mind as well. I mean, can you think of a better Christmas gift for those you know who loved the movie? (The book is available in paperback, hard cover and as an audio book/CD set read by Kristofferson.)

Happy reading,

Jay

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