Just a Man: The Real Michael Hutchence [Paperback]

However, I feel that it is almost immpossible for his family to give an accurate account of his life, when, by their own admission, they did not see him for up to ten months of each year for the last fifteen years of his life. The book also raises numerous questions about his estate, which I feel were not fully answered by the author. Despite this, I did enjoy the book and found it to throughly readable, and a must for any fan wanting to discover 'The Real Michael Hutchence'.

In the years since, Hutchence is still not at peace: a delayed posthumous release of a solo album; his estate still in dispute; his only child, orphaned recently, lives with the man who Michael feared would take her. And many questions still remain prompting the creation of numerous television specials, magazines, websites, and books.

A fourth book comes on the eve of the third anniversary of Hutchence's passing. Not yet released in America, JUST A MAN has sparked a heated debate amongst "INXSaries", the loyal fans of Hutchence's band. Written by the late singer's sister and mother, Tina Hutchence and Patricia Glassop pay tribute to and set the record straight in a journey spanning time zones and continents. Subtitled "The Real Michael Hutchence", it is the most revealing, fully-dimensional portrait of an "ordinary man living an extraordinary life."

From its opening, it is clear that this is an account like no other previously released. The book begins at one of the most tragic moments in a person's life as both daughter and mother recount receiving the news regarding their loved one. Hutchence and Glassop, each represented by a distinguished font, recount and corroborate stories from their own viewpoints in their own words.

Until now, all of the material written regarding the singer has focused on his antics on stage and off. As the title states, JUST A MAN paints a picture of a playful and caring spirit, filled with much fun and love. Anecdotes and photos of holiday gatherings and shared times are shared, as mother and sister tell stories which will leave the reader smiling and heartbroken. The star's drug use is discussed in detail, both relatives direct in actions and opinions. Tina Hutchence and Patricia Glassop also provide insight into each of Michael's love interests, recounting initial meetings and breakups with Michelle Bennett, Jonnie, Virgina Hey, Kylie Minogue, Helena Christensen, Paula Yates, and "Blair" (a woman who Hutchence sought comfort in during his time with Yates).

Michael Hutchence's daughter with Paula Yates, Heavenly Hiranni Tiger Lily, is also mentioned. While Michael was alive, Ms. Yates did not allow the two much time with Tiger, even stating that the Hutchence's were not to have access to the innocent little girl. The two were not even invited to Tiger's Christening and any presents sent by the family were not accepted.

A great deal of time is devoted to the circumstances surrounding the last hours of Hutchence's life. The most private details of the family are told regarding the events leading up to and following the funeral rites. One will not believe the manner in which Hutchence's property and possessions were treated and the conditions and strains put upon Ms. Hutchence and Ms. Glassop; the two were led to large crates in which the remainder of the late singer's now mildew and battery acid stained goods lay, only keeping that which was permitted by the executor of the celebrity's estate.

A story of a beloved brother and son, JUST A MAN is also two women's "fight for justice and truth" as they come to terms with his passing and steady themselves once more for the oncoming storm of litigations. From the epilogue, one gains a sense that the challenging experience of writing JUST A MAN has been theraputic for Ms. Hutchence and Mrs. Glassop. His voice still heard around the world, JUST A MAN provides a small sense of closure for those who feel that Michael Hutchence has been a part of their lives.