A book about how Elvis became a part of my life with concert photos, candid shots and concerts. How a normal "gate girl" was lucky enough to enter the King's Kingdom.
Excerpt
Like millions of first-generation Rock & Roll teens, Sandi Haynes Pichon, Author, Columnist & President of TCB ELVIS STYLE Fan Club in Louisiana, was Raised on ELVIS! ELVIS! ELVIS! In between the time she sat with him on his motorcycle at his Audubon Drive home until the day she stood weeping by his coffin inside Graceland, Sandi was front row and center for ELVIS concerts all over the country. As a pre-teen in Memphis, she was there to witness a regional attraction which become a national obsession; she devoted years of her adult life to being part of his global audience, and has since dedicated herself to charities that pay homage to his iconic memory. Through several chance meetings with ELVIS himself and friendships with his inner circle Sandi was close enough to feel for the wonderful man that was living in the shadow of his awesome reputation. They exchanged gifts and kisses across the footlights and she was invited to the parties after the shows and even to Graceland Mansion. "I was so fortunate to have been able to have such meaningful contact with the most beloved entertainer ever," Sandi relates. "I always knew that I was there for the millions who wished they were, so this story belongs to all the fans, who have loved him, turned their rooms into shrines to him, and stood by him for all these years." So now enjoy this pictorial novella of a time and place where a man changed the world one heart at a time.
Professional Reviews
Review by Mary Howiz
After reading Sandi’s book about Elvis and the fact she knew him has made me quite intrigued to find out more about him. I’ve always liked Elvis (who doesn’t) but never more than that. But I have discovered he was a kind, caring, lovely man and it seems that just to meet him for two minutes would never be forgotten for the rest of your life. Sandi is a lucky lady and has written a lovely book. Well done Sandi.
Mary Howis, Author of 'The Mercury Man: Freddie Mercury In My Life'
Sonny West Review
After reading Sandi Pichon’s book, RAISED ON ELVIS ELVIS ELVIS, I was left feeling I knew another side of Elvis. One that I didn’t know before as my relationship with him was from the inside. She gave me a whole different perspective of him that I had not known. Her words of him were warm, loving and she more than gives you the feeling of what it was like for her to not only be around him, but to watch and love him from afar also. The love and feelings that Elvis had for his fans and friends is evident through-out Sandi’s book and I think she speaks for a lot of fans that will identify with her and the stories she shares though-out her book. Those of us around Elvis got to know Sandi very well and she was highly thought of, by Elvis and by us and a wonderful warm lady. I really enjoyed the book!
Sonny West, Elvis's Close Personal Friend and Bodyguard
Jim Cox Review
Every so often an Elvis book comes along that captures the essence of who he was and what he meant to his fans. Sandi Pichon's new book, "Raised on Elvis! Elvis! Elvis!", is such a book. Without the usual 'glitz & glamour' approach found in so many 'tell-all' books, Sandi relates, simply and in fascinating detail, her amazing journey - from a twelve-year-old admiring fan with the courage to approach her dream idol at his house, to a seasoned, matured veteran of many concerts in the seventies. And what a journey it was! Saving her money regularly so she and her friends could attend numerous shows across the country, she became a fixture in the front row, a devoted fan that Elvis came to count on seeing almost nightly. It even got to the point where he would ask where she had been if she missed a show or two. He also became accustomed to receiving personal gifts from her while on stage, gifts that came from her heart, paid for with her hard-earned money. One of many reasons why she came to be one of his favorite fans. Eventually being invited into the "inner circle" of Elvis and his entourage, she shares the thrill of what it was like to attend the 'after-show' parties and getting to know those around Elvis in a personal way. Her book, loaded with personal and intimate photos, takes the reader into the exciting world she was privileged to share. Very few fans can brag about not just a single kiss from Elvis, but numerous kisses of affection over several years, kisses given on stage from a world class entertainer to his devoted and beloved fan. Sandi is one of those who can. And the story that goes along with it provides a fascinating reading experience.
Jim Cox, Author of 'Inside Graceland: Elvis' Maid Remembers'
