Customer Reviews

All the Gold in California and Other People, Places & Things

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I'm a Larry Gatlin fan. His book is written as well as his songs. I was captivated by his life story which he described in such down to earth, honest words. And it is so funny.
What a talent!

I've been around the music business for the past 30 years, I have NEVER seen an artist be this honest and open about the rise and the fall of ones career. Larry lays it ALL on the line and this should serve as a wake up call for those that can not handle "life in the fast lane". Larry's story is 24KT solid gold. A real must read from someone who has certainly been there, done that.

This book is the greatest thing Larry Wayne has ever written.I've been listening to his music over half of my life and watched all the things he wrote about in this book happen and he told the truth , he didn't try to make himself look like some hero even though he really is. If you have a family member that is fighting the battle with drugs this is a MUST READ it will give you hope. Thanks Larry Wayne for sharing your story, you saved a life.

excellent book. It's as if Larry is talking directly to you about his life. I couldn't put the book down.

No fluff or superficiality, just honest down-to-earth telling of the hard truth of the author's battle with drug and alcohol addiction and his personal struggles with the power and fame that result from being a well-know celebrity. Larry's book is much like the brilliant songs he's written -- filled with genuine emotion -- joy, pain, disappointment, hope, guilt, anger, love. He shares from real life situations that everyone can relate to -- the frustration and disappointment of not realizing your dreams (often being so close, but just not close enough), feelings of trying your best in a given situation, yet being misunderstood in the process, experiencing anger and resentment for not receiving recognition for a suggestion or idea that was originally yours, and the pondering and coming to terms with the unanswered questions in life. You'll find yourself in the presence of a friend who candidly and lovingly opens his heart to you. As Larry recounts how the love and h! elp of family and friends, together with his deep-rooted belief in God brought him back from the bottom, he conveys a powerful message of hope and healing. This is truly an inspiring book, and I enjoyed every page.

Books rarely hold my attention. Can't tell you how many I've started and put down. I started Larry Gatlin's book a few days ago and can't stop reading. Half-way thru the book, his re-telling of successes and failures have me grabbing for a kleenex every few pages. His reliance on God and coming back to God's grace are touching/inspiring. He gives God the credit for every moment that counts in his life that will connect to another open door (try to count how many times he writes, "another God moment.") His writing style is energetic, to the point, down to earth, honest - just as his personality is on stage. (I saw the Gatlin Brothers in concert in Kansas City 12/28/02). This book makes the reader rejoice as we watch him overcome alcoholism and substance abuse. Who wouldn't want Larry to win over these addictions, for his sake and his family's sake back home. He doesn't overdo the details but gives the full picture in few words. Keep the music coming Gatlin Brothers!

I've been a big Larry Gatlin fan since the mid 70's. I had the chance to meet him at the Master's golf tournament in 1996. His book is a very honest, and sometimes painful look into the life of a country music legend. To see the depths of his drug and alcohol abuse is painful. Yet, to read of his absolute dependence of the Lord and his tender heart toward people (how many times does he say, "I love ......."). Only God can change a man's heart like that. Larry gives us great insight into the unpleasant side of stardome and the country music business. He still has things that are not understood, but he's not bitter. He is one of the all time great songwriters of any style or age. This book should be read by anyone who wants to be a 'star' or by those who struggle with addiction, difficult circimstances and life in general. In other words, for all who want to see life in the raw and grace in mega portions, this books for you.

Larry is brutally honest - dropping the mask to share the anguish of addictions. His is a painful story of "tryin' to be a hero. . . windin' up a zero" from the anger, resentment, booze and drugs. Yet this is also an inspirational story of God's Grace in leading the Prodigal Son home again. This is a MUST READ for anyone fascinated by what life in the spotlight is really like. Reading each chapter gives one the feeling of sitting down with Larry and having a wonderful conversation with an old friend. His uncanny ability to pen phrases which convey volumes of feelings is evidenced by the best writing he has done in twenty years. His career is again headed for the top. And this time around, I think he just might enjoy the getting there. God Bless you Larry - for all the lives you have touched by passing our way.

Larry's been a close friend of mine for some time. This book didn't surprise me - it's the way he is: brutally honest, even if it hurts. He loves life as much as anyone I know and it came from seeing the other side and not liking what he saw. There's a lot to be learned from this book. If you're as honest with yourself as he is, it'll strike a nerve and make you take a good long look at yourself and the way you treat others.

This is a wonderful book about and by a person who really understands what life is all about.Maybe Larry would take exception with my saying that.Rather than thinking that he has all the answers,he has a deep faith in his God,and tries to live a good life and knows the rest is up to God.
He shows us that the life of a Superstar in the music business ,while being extremely arduous,it is one's decision to pursue it and has many rewards.Obviously,while money has to be a big part of it,it is the pursuit of your dreams ,joys and disappointments and the experiences and friendships that make it all worthwhile.
The great sacrifices and heavy load to keep things together,especially the life on the road and being away from family;can take its heavy toll.As we sit back and enjoy people like the Gatlins,we should keep in mind the effort they put forth to entertain and in many ways inspire us.
From this book we see a side of Larry's life that people outside the business can't really understand.When he talks about other stars ,Mickey Rooney for example,we see he is in great awe of him.Even more than that ,how impressed Larry was in finding that Mickey was so impressed with him.Larry may be a 'big star' but he carried that mantle with an even greater humility.
Maybe ,All the Gold is not in California,in a bank,in the middle of Beverly Hills;a lot is in the hearts and souls of people like Larry and others like him.
People of faith will understand what Larry is saying.Hopefully those without faith,might see what strength faith can be in good and difficult times.
A very good and inspiring book.