This is a fascinating look at a long-gone time. Mr. Blake's book not only gives the reader great insight into the artistry and work of Lon Chaney, it is a peak into the past, of the days of silent film.

Beyond the other rave reviews for this book relative to the artist, what made this book all the more valuable to me was Mr. Blake's description on movie-making at the turn of the 20th century. We can hear, feel and almost smell the greasepaint of that time, the hard work, the ramshackle artistry of these cinema pioneers.

This is one of the best books on early film, and a credit to the magic of Lon Chaney.

Michael F. Blake's second book on Lon Chaney, A Thousand Faces: Lon Chaney's Unique Artistry in Motion Pictures, is a worthy and much-welcome companion volume to the author's first book: Lon Chaney: The Man Behind The Thousand Faces. This book serves a two-fold purpose: First, Blake reveals a lot of new information he uncovered about the actor's life and films since his first book. Second, this time around biography takes a backseat to a detailed look at the films themselves (although there is still plenty to be learned of Chaney's life).

Being THE acknowledged Chaney authority and having acted himself at an early age, Blake is able to provide a knowledgeable and well-balanced analysis/commentary of Chaney's films (at least those that are not "lost"). While certainly the biggest fan of Lon Chaney, Blake maintains the needed objectively to fairly critique each film and performance. As with his first book, a big highlight here is the wealth of rare photos presented (including Lon both in and out of make-up), as is the always fascinating information on how Chaney, a make-up master, created those amazing characters. Blake is to be lauded for his vast efforts in keeping alive the legacy of one of the greatest talents of the silent era. Thanks to author Blake, all the many fans of Lon Chaney can be assured that Chaney's many talents and contributions to the world of film (and film make-up!) will never be forgotten.

Before reading this book, I knew almost nothing of Lon Chaney except his reputation as a horror actor. I was amazed to discover exactly how misleading that title actually was. Blake's work introduced a genius at makeup and pantomime who was capable of playing any role convincingly. Through it, I gained a respect for a great but seldom-discussed actor.

My husband and I both read your book and loved it! We couldn't put it down. Enjoyed every minute of it. The movie and the book were both great! It will be a family favorite in our house for years to come.

I read this truly great novel after seeing the screeplay. The novel is really rich in detail and emotion. I usually never feel this way about litterature but with this novel it is quite different. I can only recommend this masterpiece for everyone to read. I also began reading about the Indians and I now have a fascination for them.

I bought this book after the movie came out and I've never regreted it. If anybody even remotely likes the movie, then they'll absolutely love the book. It gets so in debth about what he is thinking and feeling that you can't help but cry at the end just like the movie. So far I've probably read Dances with Wolves at least 20 times.

If you liked the movie then this book is a must! Not only was Kevin Costner make one of the best films in history but he followed it up with this great book! My daughter picked this one up for me at a library sale. I didn't even know it existed to be honest or I would have purchased it myself. The book is a bit tattered so I checked out the local bookstore and although they didn't have it on the shelf, it can be ordered. If you liked the movie then consider this book for your collection. I fully recommend this great work of art by Mister Costner and friend.

I wonder if Kevin Costner even realizes the artistic and historic contribution he has made with this film. As an artist I found this book to satisfy my graphic appetite and as a romantic I have, once again, been allowed to travel back in time. Mr. Costner has shown us his artistic brilliance in so many ways and I thank him for his efforts. Enjoy the book; it is a treasure.

This has to be the best poetry book ever written for kids. Micael Rosen tells funny tails about his baby and other things. Some poems are deep and delve into the world of the poorer English society, whereas others are just plain silly and make you laugh unstoppably.

I cannot believe that no one has reviewed this book before, and am stunned and saddened that it is now out of print! It's fantastic - I discovered it at the age of eight, and it is a book I regularly read aloud and have bought for children I know. The poems are funny, witty, and touch on subjects familiar to most children (stealing chocolate cake from the pantry in the middle of the night for example, or being caught jumping on the furniture!). This book can be either a family read or a private one - it's hilarious both ways. Whatever age you are, DO read it - I can't recommend it highly enough.

If you have ever had children, have children or have taught children, this book will truly have you laughing while it melts your heart. I heard my first Michael Rosen poem at a literacy conference almost ten years ago. It took me almost as long to find an edition of his poetry. His story-like poems about his adventures growing up and about his young children are incredibly touching and hilarious. If you are a teacher, sharing these poems with your students will garantee you a rapt audience and give them a whole new slant on what poetry can be. Now, if only the rest of his books were available.....

Michael F. Blake has turned in a labor of love, & it shows. CODE OF HONOR not only deals with the making of these three classic films, but why the protagonists act the way they do without 'analyzing' the film, like so many do. In other words, Blake's book is a FUN read, & not a studious one. He writes for the public, & not over thier heads, something I appreciate. The items he points out are fascinating, such as the ties between THE SEARCHERS & STAR WARS, or how many different characters in SHANE all have thier own code of honor.
Well done! I look forward to his next work!

This book was read to me by a teacher as a way to learn to write a story outline, and with this book I found it extremely easy. The Librarian and the Robbers was hilarious and easy to follow.

Jennifer Blake is an all-time favorite and the short-story "A Vision of Sugar Plums" is great to read snuggled up by a cozy fire with something warm to sip on. I have re-read it several times! How is it that the gabby woman stuck in the elevator with a department-store Santa the night before her wedding wears you down until you start to like our heroine? Olga Bicos' "Naughty or Nice" is fun. While Hannah Howell's "The Yuletide Gift" takes us back a century or two to the Highlands with a wonderful story of a woman who melts our hero's heart. I liked this one, a lot! Sadly, Fern Michael's "Merry, Merry" is a little too predictable, but get the book anyway - it's worth it!

As a person fortunate enough to have met Michael McClure, it seems only natural that I would appreciate this book. However, I read this book a few years before I was actually privileged with Mr. McClure's presence. What I found so refreshing about this book is that not only are we, as readers, exposed to new insight into the Beat phenomenom but we are graced with the knowledge of someone who was there and lived it. McClure allows us into his mind and gives us a private tour of what many literary individuals have meant to him. While there are many wonderful and deserving books out there on the topic, one can't help but feel blessed upon discovering this beauty. I found that it not only allowed me to experience literature in a whole new element but it also allowed me to experience it through the eyes of a quiet master of the art. This is definitely a read that I highly recommend.

This was the most extensive biography I've ever read on Lon Chaney. Micheal F. Blake's account of Chaney was excellent becuase the author explains why the man was so sucsessful.
The book mainly concentrates on the impact he left on critics and movie goers. Also,his agenda and work relationships with film makers and various experts needed for subject matter that was essential for unusual plot elements in some of his greatest films. The author further demonstrates how these relationships enhanced his skill, and how that would inspire him to progress beyond what he already achieved in prior films for futer projects.
The auther accounts for his private life with integrity and honor. However, you'll learn of the private life he wanted people to think he had, regardless of how accurate it was, in comparrisson to the truth, and why.
I am a horror/sci-fi fanatic, with an extensive collection of films, novels and magazines spawned from those very genres-minus Lon Chaney!!! I can only account for two Fangoria magazines that have articles profiling him, and they are not very extensive. It's very hard to find information and literature about this man, which is a shame, considering how much he inspired present day movie makers. That's why this book is a must read, especially for those interested in a medium leading to any type of film carreer. If not, if you want to read something different, Lon Chaney is definately that in every which way, and Micheal F. Blake explains why!

For the decades since his death, Lon Chaney, while one of the biggest stars of the silent era, had remained one of the least-known (about) talents of said era. The life of this amazing, multi-talented individual is finally revealed to us with Lon Chaney: The Man Behind The Thousand Faces. Chaney fans reap the benefits of author Michael F. Blake's 6 years of research. Of the many things we learn: the son, born to deaf parents and his early mastery of pantomime for the sake of communicating with (and entertaining) them. His rather extensive list of theater credits where he practiced and honed his skills at make-up. His entry into films and the amazing body of work that resulted. His rise from bit player to hugely popular character-actor, adored by the public and respected by his peers. His marriages. All this and much, much more (who knew that Chaney was an adept dancer!). A filmography (as complete as can be known), chronology of major events in Chaney's life, and even a glossary of make-up terminology is also provided.

Two highlights: numerous, never-before-seen (at least by me) photos and Blake (himself a make-up artist) reveals the secrets behind many of the actor's "thousand faces", at the same time dispelling many inaccurate "facts" that have been perpetuated over the years concerning said make-up creations.

Whether you're a fan of Chaney or of film history in general, you will find this book invaluable.

Mr. Blake presented a thorough and convincing telling of Mr. Chaney's life and career. I found it to be quite readable, informative, and delightful in opening to me the life of one of my favorite screen personalities. Blake's book, as well as its subject, Lon Chaney, deserve a place in the highest levels of cinematic lore and recognition. I recommend this book to anyone wishing to know more about Lon Chaney and his times.