Backstreet Boy had tough life - Book Review of Jane Carter's Bio on Nick

Back - Index - Submissions - - What is RSS? Date: Apr 30, 2099 Source: Express News Submitted By: By Kristy Hardy - Special to the Express-News "I am living proof that with a belief in yourself and an adult to help, the sky's the limit." Special to the Express-News So says Nick Carter, lead singer of the hit pop group Backstreet Boys. Learn everything about Nick in "The Heart and Soul of Nick Carter," a detailed story of his life as told by his mother, Jane (Onyx, $9.50). Even diehard Backstreet Boys fans will learn something new in this book, which also includes several pages of color photos. Many young people believe that success comes easily: a producer or manager discovers you and suddenly you're famous. In the Carter book, you'll learn that it takes a lot of hard work to become a star. From his earliest days living beneath the Yankee Rebel, a restaurant named for his grandmother (a Yankee) and his grandfather (a Southerner), Nick's parents always knew that "music is at the very core of Nick's being at the very heart and soul of him." He carried his passion for music throughout his parents' wanderings, as they moved from house to house, through several bouts of homelessness. He maintained his focus on the serious side of music, even while playing big brother to his siblings, even while learning his ABCs from an honorary "grandmother." Recognizing his talent and discipline, his mother began to take Nick to one audition after another. Despite frequent rejections, Nick continued to sing — even when there was nobody there. He continued to audition as a singer, dancer and actor, even though other young hopefuls made fun of his clothing, for Nick and his family remained poor. Nick's first big break came when he earned parts on the television show "Clubhouse Kids"; then came a part in the hit movie "Edward Scissorhands." He eventually achieved stardom with the Backstreet Boys. Throughout his life, his biggest fan has been his mother. "When Nick was a child, I attempted to bring him to full flower, both as an entertainer and as an authentic human being," she writes. "I took my responsibility as Nick's mother, his protector, and his nurturer seriously." Jane Carter has crafted an interesting, exciting history filled with great photos. Every fan will enjoy this one. Kristy Hardy attends Hernandez Intermediate School in San Marcos. Comment on this item. Next Item: Smash Hit reviews IWITW Prev Item: I Want It That Way Video Shoot