In this volume, Barry Lee Pearson and Bill McCulloch examine the full range of writings about Johnson (including books, articles, and record notes) to sift fact from fiction. They compare conflicting accounts of Johnson's life, weighing them against interviews with blues musicians and others who knew the man. The result is the uncovering of a life every bit as compelling as the fabrications and exaggerations that have sprung up around it. "I love this book. . . . It debunks a lot of the mysterious tales about Johnson but doesn't take anything away from the man at all. There are still plenty of fascinating stories about Johnson here, and his artistry still shines as bright as ever. If you love the blues--especially country blues--you'll love this book, too." -- Charlie Musselwhite, musician.