All That Glitters-The Crime And The Cover Up was published in 2004. Having always had an interest in Michael Jackson and his music, I took this book from the library in the hope a good read.
The first molestation scandal against Michael Jackson in 1993 rocked the world. Everyone was thrown into total confusion. Could the music genius with his passion for children, really have molested a thirteen year old boy named Jordie Chandler? Or was this a malicious extortion attempt?
All That Glitters is written by Raymond Chandler (Jordies Uncle) and that fact brings me to my first problem with the book. It is very one sided . According to the book Michael Jackson does everything under the sun to make the Chandler Family suffer. Brainwashing Jordies' mother June by lavishing gifts and on her and giving her money (according to the book this was her "Payment" for keeping quiet, as she knew about the sexual activity between Michael and Jordie. Although most people would shudder at the thought of a mother allowing her thirteen year old to be involved in such vile sexual acts with an adult male- there is no put down for June Chandler.
The book frequently describes the sexual activity which took place between Michael Jackson and Jordie Chandler- but there is nothing too offensive that we all haven't heard before.
The good thing about this book are the way in which it is written. Straight to the point, mostly factual ( you can never be too sure!) and certainly a page turner.
Also Raymond Chandler really does tug at your heart strings and makes you really see Jordies side of things. All the public have seen up until the release of this book is how Michael Jackson feels. His interviews, his books and his words. It feels good to know that when you have finished this book you can give yourself a pat on the back for trying to see both sides of the story.
To be honest for me this book didn't change my mind about the Chandlers. Raymond writes constantly about "wanting whats best for Jordie" and "as long as Jordie is happy" yet puts the child through countless interviews with psychologists and lawyers etc. If the family were so intent on punishing Michael Jackson for the horrible things he did to their son- wouldn't they have wanted him jailed?
Which leads me to believe that their intent was to get money out of Michael Jackson as a punishment. Its just a shame, that money can't buy that boys happiness.
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