Johnny Weissmuller: Twice the Hero (Hardcover)

~ (Author), Hank Brown (Editor)

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

Fury, the owner of Artist's Press and author of other filmographies and biographies, including a forthcoming biography of Maureen O'Sullivan (Weissmuller's onscreen Jane), has written more a tribute than a biography of Weissmuller, known for his Olympic medals and his portrayal of Tarzan. With the constant use of parenthetical asides and exclamation points, Fury's writing style reminds one of fan magazines of the 1950s, and the book is introduced by Johnny Sheffield, who played Boy in numerous Tarzan films, making this even more of a tribute. The book does contain much useful biographical information, particularly concerning Weissmuller's athletic accomplishments, as well as 104 pages of photographs from Weissmuller's film and swimming careers, as well as selections from family collections. Fury's filmography includes lists of acting and technical credits but lacks plot summaries. Also included are lists of swimming medals and records. Fury's Kings of the Jungle: A History of Tarzan on the Screen (MacFarland, 1994) would be a welcome companion to this. Ultimately though, this "biography" is only for Weissmuller's fans and is not generally recommended for library purchase.
-Lisa N. Johnston, Sweet Briar Coll., VA
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Description

“A traditional big starstruck bio that contains just enough dirt to spice the myth. Well worth the reading.” — Booklist

As difficult as it is to achieve fame and the pinnacle of success in any particular field, Johnny Weissmuller did it twice: An undefeated swimming champion and winner of five Olympic gold medals, Johnny Weissmuller went on to become an internationally famous actor, loved and remembered for his roles as Tarzan and Jungle Jim on the silver screen. With a foreword by Johnny Sheffield, the actor who played “Boy” to Weissmuller’s Tarzan.

Includes Photos --This text refers to an alternate Hardcover edition.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 360 pages
• Publisher: Artists Pr; 1st edition (May 2000)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0924556021
• ISBN-13: 978-0924556029
• Product Dimensions: 9.8 x 6.5 x 1.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.2 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,275,430 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great read!, November 4, 2000

By	T. Brice (Lafayette, Georgia USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

I've been a "Weissmuller" fan for most of my life,and this book is long overdue.The rare photos are simply great.The book may seem to be slightly over-priced until one examines the quality of the workmanship.The binding and print is first-rate.It covers Johnny's life from his birth in Europe in1904 to his death in 1984.While it doesn't shy away from the multiple marriages,it doesn't delve into salacious gossip.It's obvious the biography was written by a true fan.I especially enjoyed the foreword by Johnny Sheffield.It revealed a lot about the true character of Weissmuller.David Fury is to be complimented for this excellent book! P.S. Johnny Weissmuller was my boyhood idol.He was "head and shoulders" above everyone,in my book.I was most fortunate to meet him,when he came to my hometown,in 1967.I was 13 at the time,and it was quite a thrill to meet him.He was 63,and looked simply great! I still treasure the two autographed pictures he gave me.

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Twice the book for Tarzan fans, January 15, 2002

By A Customer

If any one is a fan of Johnny Weissmuller or even if you are just a fan of his Tarzan movies this is the book to read. There is so much I didn't know about this real American hero that is presented in such an informative and entertaining way. I heard the author is working on a book about Maureen O'sullivan. I'll be first in line for that one. You won't be disapointed in this book. Some great pictures as well.

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Well Researched, January 11, 2001

By A Customer

I was very impressed by the research in this biography of Johnny Weismuller. A lot of time was spent in getting opinions of those who knew and worked with Weismuller throughout his athletic and film career. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in films or in Johnny Weismuller.