The King And Dr. Nick / Review

Author: George Nichopoulos, M.D.
w/Rose Clayton Phillips
Hardcover: 256 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (January 5, 2010)
ISBN-10: 1595551719

Book Description:
The truth about Elvis's death from the doctor who spent eleven years as "the King's" personal physician, father-figure, and confidant - "Dr. Nick."

Dr. Nichopoulos spent a decade with Elvis on the road and at Graceland, trying to maintain the precarious health of one of the world's greatest entertainers. But on August 16, 1977, he found himself in the ambulance with Elvis on that fateful last trip to the ER. He signed the death certificate.
From that day forward, Dr. Nick became the focus of a media witch hunt that threatened his life and all but destroyed his professional reputation.

Now, for the first time, Dr. Nick reveals the true story behind Elvis's drug use and final days; not the version formed by years of tabloid journalism and gross speculation. Put aside what you've learned about Elvis's final days and get ready to understand for the first time the inner workings of "the king of rock n' roll."

My Review:

I’m not going to write a long, in-depth overview of this book, since this has been done by other readers and there is also a book description at the top of the page. I will say that this account of Dr. Nick and Elvis seems to be very believable. It starts with recounting the death of Elvis and takes us through a life and friendship that is interesting and at the same time revealing in a way that only a close friend can retell.

We find here the true personality and personal trials of The King, who was also a man. We get an up-close look at his health issues, his grueling concert schedules, the demons he faced, and the kind person that he was and will remembered for.

We have all been told through the news media that the death of Elvis was blamed on heart disease, but was it something more than that? This book reveals details that may lead to other causes. The story is well-written and of interest to those who are die-hard Elvis fans. It is an eye-opener, told by a friend who evidently loved and respected him. I think Elvis would approve of this account.

(Thank you to Thomas Nelson Publishing for my review copy.)