5 Brothers and a Million Sisters

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· 417 ratings · 79 reviews

Start your review of New Kids on the Block: Five Brothers and a Million Sisters

Okay, I'm just going to come out and say it. I'm a New Kids on the Block fan. I'm a secure grown ass man, now, so I can say that without even flinching. But when I was a teenager living in Kentucky, I wouldn't dare admit that to my friends. As a result, I was an in-the-closet NKOTB fan.

I can vividly remember when I crossed over into their fandom. In 1990, I was all about R&B music. I pretty much liked everything, but pure soul music was my focus! I was very aware of NKOTB because every girl I knew liked them. But being a New Edition fan, I naturally hated NKOTB and they were a cheap rip off of New Edition in my opinion. But something intrigued me about their appeal... particularly the effect they had on their fans. I'd heard of such rabid fan behavior with the Beatles and the Jackson 5, but this was the first time in my memorable lifetime that I could witness it. Then one Friday evening, I decided to watch a concert special of theirs on the Disney Channel to A) see these crazy girl fans at work and B) to give NKOTB a chance and see what the hype was all about. To my surprise, I thought to myself "These guys are cool. I could see myself hanging with them." I also noticed they had a lot of soul for 5 white boys from Boston... I later learned they spent their childhood growing up in Dorchester, Jamaica Plains and Roxbury, so it all made sense. Color aside, they were more talented than I presumed. Plain and simple. So that was that. I was in... the closet.

In 2008, when they made their comeback announcement on The Today Show, I was so happy to hear the news. I was nervous for how the world was going to receive them, but I had hope. To show my support, I decided to go see their concert when they came to Los Angeles. Wow, they were better than ever... they were adults with better voices and more polished dance moves. Most importantly, they were humbled 40 year olds who were genuinely gracious to have the chance to perform again. We live in a society where people love to see others on top fail. But the only thing people like more than seeing failure is a good comeback story. I couldn't be more happy for them.

Okay, the book... this book uniquely tells the story of the New Kids in chronological order. Throughout the book, the story is interspersed with accounts from fans, and these accounts correspond with the given time. It's a very skillfully way to write a biography. More biographies should take a cue from this book. Talk about targeting your audience -- the fans. But what I really took away from this book is the New Kids have grown into very generous adults who are extremely grateful to get that shot again and are even more grateful for their fans. Even if you're not a fan and you like a good success story, check out this book.

All right. Enough with this review. Time for me to watch "Blue Bloods" on my DVR (see what I did there?).

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Oct 06, 2012 Amy rated it it was amazing

As a New Kids on the Block fan since 1988, I couldn't wait to read this biography. I read some concerns about Twitter about "why should we read this book? It's just going to be the same stories we've heard a million times." But that's so not what it was. Yes, there were a few stories we've all heard, but the majority of the stories I hadn't heard before. I loved reading about what it was REALLY like when the guys first got together all those years ago in Boston. I'm so happy to read someone gett As a New Kids on the Block fan since 1988, I couldn't wait to read this biography. I read some concerns about Twitter about "why should we read this book? It's just going to be the same stories we've heard a million times." But that's so not what it was. Yes, there were a few stories we've all heard, but the majority of the stories I hadn't heard before. I loved reading about what it was REALLY like when the guys first got together all those years ago in Boston. I'm so happy to read someone getting their story right. I wish everyone, fans or not, could read this book so they could better understand the indescribable bond between these five amazing guys and their fans, affectionately known as Blockheads. NKOTB was not a manufactured group. They were not put together from some huge talent search. And I tell ya, their story would make a hell of a movie! It was so wonderful to read it and in a way, relive it all over again. I laughed out loud, cried (more times than I would like to admit) and even felt depressed while reading about the down times, when they lost control and the merchandising was insane. Words can't express how grateful I am for this book, to Nikki Van Noy for getting the real story out there. Honestly, I'm a bit jealous because as a writer myself, I always wanted to write a book like this, about NKOTB and our incredible bond. But I'm so glad Ms. Van Noy got the chance first. This was the way it was meant to be. Perhaps someday I'll share my story, in a different way, but I will always treasure this book and share it with as many people as I can. READ IT!! ...more

Oct 13, 2012 Heather rated it liked it

I liked this book overall, I laughed, cried and reminisced. I loved the info on the early years and quotes from the parents about that time. I sobbed when Mr. McIntyre was talking about Betty Wood. (I'm a Danny girl) Would have loved to learn more about their families and was I the only one that noticed Jordan & Jon's dad was NEVER mentioned, not once. It got really bogged down when they actually became stars. For one, very little of this was news to any fan from that time and there were way too I liked this book overall, I laughed, cried and reminisced. I loved the info on the early years and quotes from the parents about that time. I sobbed when Mr. McIntyre was talking about Betty Wood. (I'm a Danny girl) Would have loved to learn more about their families and was I the only one that noticed Jordan & Jon's dad was NEVER mentioned, not once. It got really bogged down when they actually became stars. For one, very little of this was news to any fan from that time and there were way too many fan comments in this section. I know it had to be covered but it would have been nice to get more info from the siblings and their perspectives perhaps.

The section on what happened between the break-up and the reunion is essentially what can be found on any of their press releases. The fact Joe's eldest son was born deaf was barely touched on, same thing with Jordan's drinking problem and really nothing significant on Jon's love life or the custody battle Danny had for his first son. Donnie's divorce is touched on quite a bit, though no real details, because that was the driving force on why he was ready for the reunion.

Pretty much if you haven't been following them on Twitter for years, haven't paid for the fan club or don't follow them around the country and go on the cruise, you aren't a good fan. Or at least that's what I got from the book. Personally I think I was always a good fan because I never stopped playing their albums.

Maybe this just seems important cause I was there, but the band played Detroit (or technically a suburb) the day Michael Jackson died. In hours they threw together a nice tribute and at least two of them said without MJ, they wouldn't exist. So it surprised me that it wasn't even mentioned. Seemed fitting they were pretty close to Motown the day he died.

Overall, if you've ever been a fan or just curious, read it. Donnie's personality and thankfulness for the fans really comes through in it and I got a little bit better idea of the rest of them too. Just the early years and how they came together is worth it, and how since, the powers that be have tried to duplicate it in cookie cutter models that never quite worked the same.

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Oct 03, 2012 Mel rated it really liked it

Up until now, there hasn't really been an all-inclusive biographical story depicting both sides of the coin: the band and the fans. This book filled that void and gave us all a voice - it is *our* biography and well-written as such. The author did a fantastic job of giving the reader insight as to why we, the fans, are so devoted to our favorite group and she explains perfectly the relationships we've been able to develop with the group both as individuals and as a whole. I've never been able to Up until now, there hasn't really been an all-inclusive biographical story depicting both sides of the coin: the band and the fans. This book filled that void and gave us all a voice - it is *our* biography and well-written as such. The author did a fantastic job of giving the reader insight as to why we, the fans, are so devoted to our favorite group and she explains perfectly the relationships we've been able to develop with the group both as individuals and as a whole. I've never been able to aptly explain the draw these men have on me and now I don't have to. I'll just tell them to read the book.

I was in tears and laughter throughout the whole book, recognizing names of friends and fellow fans whose anecdotes were shared in the best ways. It was fun to relive shows of the past and present through the eyes of the group members, as well as the fans.

The only reason I didn't give it five stars was because there were some inaccuracies in the book. (Some dates were wrong, as well as the spelling of Jonathan and Jordan's mom's last name.) While it's quite possible the errors could have been related to how the stories were told to the author, they are mistakes that could've (and should've) been caught with some research that would've taken a few moments of time and a Google search). Even so, I thoroughly enjoyed the read and will recommend it to others.

Good job!

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Oct 01, 2012 Cheryl rated it really liked it

New Kids on the Block: Five Brothers and a Million Sisters. Ok, so be warned my geeky side is coming out. I can remember when New Kids on the Block starting getting popular and their songs were on the radio. My girlfriends and I would listen to them all the time. Of course we had our favorites of the five guys. Mine was Jordan. Anyone who is a true fan of NKOTB will tell you their favorite guy and usually you will be surprised to find out that as we all grow up, our guy does not change. I even h New Kids on the Block: Five Brothers and a Million Sisters. Ok, so be warned my geeky side is coming out. I can remember when New Kids on the Block starting getting popular and their songs were on the radio. My girlfriends and I would listen to them all the time. Of course we had our favorites of the five guys. Mine was Jordan. Anyone who is a true fan of NKOTB will tell you their favorite guy and usually you will be surprised to find out that as we all grow up, our guy does not change. I even had a NKOTB lunch box.

What I was surprised to learn from reading this book was just how loyal and friendly NKOTB are towards their fans. The feel is mutual. I had just as much fun reading how the guys went from singing in prisons, birthday parties, to Fenway Park. As I did reading about the stories from real fans. Who had their own stories to share about meeting the guys. I have come away with more respect for the band after reading this book. This book did not just focus on the music but the guys and who there are and where they came from. I would suggest checking this book out for any NKOTB fan. You will not be disappointed.

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Sep 21, 2014 Jess rated it it was ok

This was a good read and interesting for an NKOTB fan. As the title "5 Brothers and A Million Sisters" suggests, it not only shows the story of the five band members but also interweaves that with stories of the fans who experienced various events. In that regard, it's different than most behind the scenes biographies. It is also full of quotes, both from the band and from the fans. It gives a rare glimpse into both sides of the phenomenon. The author did a great job of making readers feel conne This was a good read and interesting for an NKOTB fan. As the title "5 Brothers and A Million Sisters" suggests, it not only shows the story of the five band members but also interweaves that with stories of the fans who experienced various events. In that regard, it's different than most behind the scenes biographies. It is also full of quotes, both from the band and from the fans. It gives a rare glimpse into both sides of the phenomenon. The author did a great job of making readers feel connected to the guys, of bringing the guys into our bedrooms, our living rooms, the bus, anywhere we read the book. I felt like the guys were telling me these things face to face rather than reading the quote from the book.

Ultimately where this book fell short is my own lack of previous experience with the band. I'm a rare late-bloomer: I only became a fan when they reunited as grown men. I was too young the first time they were a hit, which means I missed the mark for about 80% of the book. Had I been a fan back in the day, I'm sure this would have been a 4 or 5 star read for me.

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I was 4 or 5 years old when NKOTB was at the peak in popularity, yet I still love their music and had the opportunity to see them in concert back in 2009.

I read this book for nostalgia.It wasn't horrible, but it wasn't great either. At times, it felt like I was reading a very long research paper on NKOTB. There were lots of fan stories sprinkled throughout the book, but I'm curious how the author found those fans. She doesn't go into detail about where the fan stories came from.

There also isn't

I was 4 or 5 years old when NKOTB was at the peak in popularity, yet I still love their music and had the opportunity to see them in concert back in 2009.

There also isn't anything about where the band is headed or if there are plans for future albums.

Almost no time is spent on the years in between their break-up and reunion. I also felt that the author painted a very sqeaky-clean image of the band. I know I was young when they were popular, but I remember some stories about alcohol abuse and Jon coming out as gay.

Could have been better, instead most of the time is spent on fans gushing over the band.

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I admit- I HATED NKOTB when they came out in the '80's. I was a Motley Crue/Poison/Warrant/Whitesnake fan- hair metal to the core! A few years ago, watching 80's videos on YouTube, I came to the sudden realization that as much as I despised the New Kids when I was in middle school... they REALLY were a great pop band (!). Ah, adulthood. New perspective, LOL. When I saw this book highlighted at the local library and decided to give it a read.

Review: This was a nice, light, "fluffy" book. Very bub

Review: This was a nice, light, "fluffy" book. Very bubblegum. It's not a tell-all, and there's really no depth. The writing is simple, as if it were a middle school report. As someone who doesn't know "the Kids" at all, I was constantly confused, because the author would write, "Danny said... Joe said... Donnie said..." all in one paragraph. I got all the bandmembers mixed up... they all melted together... wait. Who is the one with anxiety problems again? Which one was gay? Who is the Waffle House lover? Which one is falsetto again-?? In that sense, I wish the author had split the chapters up by Kid (as it was done in Motley Crue's bio, "The Dirt")--I think it would have been much less confusing and jumpy for those of us who aren't NKOTB experts.

The "lightness" of the book also disappointed me. The author mentions a few very huge events... coming out of the closet (forgot which one- one of the J's)... sobriety (forgot which one)... anxiety problems (Joe maybe?? Forgot)... Divorce (Danny? Or was it Donnie?)... I wish the author would have dug into these a little more. I mean, they are huge, life-changing events. I wanted to know more about these, and how they affected each Kid.

All in all, this was a fun, light beach-read but left me wanting more. Maybe there's another book out there to better serve NKOTB newbies. :)

Jen

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Oct 11, 2012 Tamara rated it liked it

Being a huge NKOTB fan back in the circa 1989/90/91 years- I wasn't sure what to expect from this book.
Began reading it, and felt a total sense of nostalgia. I can see myself singing my heart out, wearing the NKOTB tshirt, knowing all the words to the lyrics, my first celebrity crush- all while I'm wearing my hair in a side pony-tail (with a scrunchie!), denim shorts, keds and floppy socks- very fashionable attire at that point (but a major WTH moment later in life).

This book is a behind the sc

This book is a behind the scenes, tell-all book. It tells the story of how they became NKOTB, their rise to stardom after being mis-marketed, the crazy, almost like over-night sensations they were in the pop world (this book tells the true story behind that common thought) and the eventual dimming of their stardom.

Also included in book is pictures, memories from fans, and the tale of the reunion process.

Perfect for a die-hard NKOTB fan or a fan from years ago- this is a book for all.

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Aug 26, 2015 Veronika rated it it was amazing

This book made me to appreciate and admire more this group (and this statement comes from a BSB fan). I have to admit the first time I saw the performance of both groups (London event) I was focused just in BSB but after that I discovered Donnie's acting career and his, apparently, perfect charming behavior. That was the moment when I started to be a "newbie blockhead" and after read for what they passed through in all these years, I'm convinced I will be a BH forever.
"" This book made me to appreciate and admire more this group (and this statement comes from a BSB fan). I have to admit the first time I saw the performance of both groups (London event) I was focused just in BSB but after that I discovered Donnie's acting career and his, apparently, perfect charming behavior. That was the moment when I started to be a "newbie blockhead" and after read for what they passed through in all these years, I'm convinced I will be a BH forever.
"" ...more

This book just straight up made me smile! I didn't learn anything new for the most part, but I got to relive those butterfly feelings I had for NKOTB back in the day. I got to remember all the concerts I went to, the shirts, buttons, pillowcases and dolls I had, and my pure love of Danny Wood. Um, when is their next concert again?! Brava! This book just straight up made me smile! I didn't learn anything new for the most part, but I got to relive those butterfly feelings I had for NKOTB back in the day. I got to remember all the concerts I went to, the shirts, buttons, pillowcases and dolls I had, and my pure love of Danny Wood. Um, when is their next concert again?! Brava! ...more

Jun 24, 2014 Alyssa rated it really liked it

5 stars for subject matter
4 stars for actual content
3 stars for writing style

While a nice book, there isn't anything groundbreaking or shocking here, even for someone who isn't a "Blockhead." i'm sure the group didn't want to go there, but i think there is a much more interesting story to be told about the early days.

5 stars for subject matter
4 stars for actual content
3 stars for writing style

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Jul 08, 2013 Roe Quinajon rated it it was amazing

I've been a Blockhead since I was 16 years old! Loved them back then. And I can't honestly say I love them even more now! NKOTB forever!!! I've been a Blockhead since I was 16 years old! Loved them back then. And I can't honestly say I love them even more now! NKOTB forever!!! ...more

I recommend this book for any New Kids On The Block fan!!

Oct 10, 2012 Tiffany rated it really liked it

The short review:
As was expected, it was a fluffy, light read. I was kind of torn about this book--it was interesting and had some good history and stories about the band, but seemed like it was glossing over a lot of stuff, too. I gave it 4 stars mainly for the subject ("Oh my God! A book about the New Kids on the Block! *fan girl squeal*"), but I think substance would have only gotten it 3-3.5 stars.

The long review:
Ah, my childhood.

I was a big New Kids On the Block fan back in the day, but n

The long review:
Ah, my childhood.

I was a big New Kids On the Block fan back in the day, but not what one would call a Blockhead. I didn't travel around the country or the world, my room wasn't wall-to-wall NKOTB, I didn't force my parents to take me to concerts. I didn't meet any of the guys at autograph sessions, nor did I wait outside venues to be able to see them for even a fleeting second (Okay, I would have liked to have done that one.). I guess, then, I was just a normal pre-teen (or teen or early 20s, or apparently, in some cases, mother) girl in the late '80s/early '90s. I had a nightshirt with the boys' picture on it, I had two posters, I had the albums, knew the words to almost every song, cut their pictures out of magazines, taped their TV appearances, went to two concerts (less than six months apart, but a two-hour drive difference), had a Jordan doll, and I watched the Saturday morning cartoon. But no bed sheets, no wall-to-wall pictures, no stalking. Like I said, I suppose I was just a normal girl of that era (although maybe the fact that I *didn't* have the wall-to-wall decorations and an entire New Kids wardrobe made me abnormal).

So when I saw this book, with the much older, but still decently cute, faces of the New Kids On the Block staring right at me, I decided I needed to read it. (Not being a Blockhead, I didn't need to read it right away, but being a fan back in the day, I needed to read it at some point. And hey, if someone's going to write a book about NKOTB, I knew I probably wouldn't delay reading it too long.)

The book is about what you'd expect of a biography about one of the most famous pop bands, and the band that (supposedly) Started It All. Van Noy has access to the band members, so there are a lot of current quotes used, rather than using "their own words" from back in the '80s and '90s (Ugh, I hate when authors do that. I could have gotten the same information from just reading the newspaper!), as well as lots of interviews with fans (And who knew the fan base was still so strong? Or that there's an annual cruise?! I want to go on that!). One thing that gets to me, though, is that she uses so many quotes at times that they don't flow into the text all that well. It also feels like there should be more substance. Not that the book isn't substantial, just that it feels like I remember hearing more controversy and gossip about them, and she's barely touching on any of that. Still, though, even the substance is what you would have expected in a biography about one of the most famous pop bands: girls everywhere (EVERYWHERE, even in their parents' kitchens), backlash against the band, fighting between band members after being on the road for nearly three years straight. So there's nothing really groundbreaking, but there are some things and some details you might not have previously known. I get the feeling that maybe some of the substance or in-depth details were sacrificed so that Van Noy could tell the fans' story, as well. There are so many quotes from fans--at times seeming like there are more fan quotes than there are band member quotes--to tell about the fans' relationships with the guys and their views of the band that it probably took away space in the book for the deeper stuff or particular details that had to get ignored or glossed over. At the end of every chapter, she also highlights some touching thing the band members did for fans, which can either warm your heart to the band and their humanity, or get on your nerves (For me, it's the latter. Their fans think they saved the world; I got it. They have done some nice things for their fans, though.).

Overall, the book is a decently-written flashback. It's not Deep Literature, but it's also not a piece of junk that just got thrown together to cash in on a death or reunion or anniversary. Van Noy's access to the guys means we have their memories of the era as it happened, as well as 20 years of hindsight. I keep getting "Tonight" from Step By Step stuck in my head (which is always odd to me, since it isn't my favorite song on the album; just the easiest to latch on to, I suppose, with its "la la la la la la"s), and I oftentimes will play some NKOTB on my iTunes after sitting and reading the book for a while. It makes me long to be in fifth grade again, but I'm okay with having moved on. It is kind of sad, though, when in the book both the band members and the fans say that you could tell it was coming to an end--between the backlash against pop, the backlash against the constant NKOTB merchandising, the rise of grunge, and a fan base and band structure (five young men in their teens and early 20s) that, by definition, had to grow up and thus move on. I also feel slightly guilty that I did move on and never came back, even when the band did. But it makes me appreciate the time we had together. Going to see them at the now-defunct Kingdome in September 1990, then seeing them the following Valentine's Day (yup) thirty miles away; my heart fluttering at Jordan Knight's dimples, smile, and intense eyes; watching the Saturday morning cartoon (especially the episode where they were performing at the Kingdome!), even with all of its cheesiness; listening to my older cousin pine for Joey (and here's how *I* knew their time was up and the fans were moving away: the day my cousin started to tell me about her crush on Billie Joe Armstrong from Green Day)... It was a simpler time, being 10 years old.

I may have grown up and like more manly male singers now, like Michael Stipe (umm...) and Dave Grohl, and like more sophisticated lyrics like those of Ken Stringfellow and Sean Nelson, but you should never forget where you came from, or forget the innocence of youth. Many people my age now embarrassedly admit they used to like the New Kids on the Block, or don't admit it at all. I, though, will always tell you loudly and proudly that I loved NKOTB. I was 10, and what girl didn't? They were exactly what I wanted back then--catchy music I could dance to, light-hearted lyrics about hanging out or having a crush, and cute boys who could dance. There's nothing wrong with admitting that once you were young and had different tastes and priorities than you do at an older age. I still have the cassettes I owned back then, even bought the CD versions of two of them (and obviously have them on my computer), still pull out the Christmas album in December, and can still sing along to most of the songs I could over 20 years ago. And most importantly, I can still remember what it was like to be 10, have a crush, and have my biggest cares in the world be whether an international superstar who was 9 years older than me might fall in love with me, or whether I was going to hear one of their songs on the radio that day. Nikki Van Noy's book offers a chance to return to that time, relive some memories, and hear a few stories I hadn't heard before.

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Jan 26, 2017 Summer rated it really liked it

There isn't much here that long-time fans wouldn't know, and content wise, this is probably three stars, but if you're a fan it's an enjoyable walk down memory lane with plenty of quotes from the guys, so for that reason I bumped it up to four stars.

For me, the strongest section of the book came early on with the school days and putting the band together, in other areas, I think it would have been interesting to hear from Maurice Starr, and just in general to go into more detail with everything,

I also thought the book could have been a little less flattering, not that it needed to be critical exactly, New Kids and their fans have received more than their fair share of criticism, I guess for certain things I just craved a bit more candor and honesty, like for instance, several times it mentions that the other guys bullied Joe, yet at the same it felt glossed over, as if it were no big deal when bullying is a big deal, and it was a big enough deal to tempt Joe to quit. And, Donnie's arrest, I get that it would be something he's reluctant to discuss, especially since it's so far removed from the man he is now, but for it to not even be mentioned (aside from a fan saying something about trashed hotel rooms), when it was a turning point for a lot of fans' parents, and probably personally for Donnie as well, it seems like something that should have been addressed here, and it could have been done in a positive way despite having been a negative moment. Everybody makes mistakes, and if you rise from it like he did, isn't that a story worth telling?

With so many rock star/pop star memoirs released every year, I'm sure at some point we'll get more detailed accounts from the guys in individual books, but until then, this take on the band nicely sums up the basics of their experience.

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Aug 13, 2019 Josh rated it really liked it

Recommends it for: Fans of NKOTB

I've been a fan of NKOTB since their beginning. Their songs were catchy and a good singing group is a good singing group regardless of who it's made up of. It wasn't always easy being a teenage guy who loved seeing these five guys singing and dancing, especially as the majority of their fans were girls. Us guys were the hidden fans, usually ignored but there in the crowd. I'm still a huge fan many years later, but with this book, I again felt like a hidden, ignored portion of the group's fans. I I've been a fan of NKOTB since their beginning. Their songs were catchy and a good singing group is a good singing group regardless of who it's made up of. It wasn't always easy being a teenage guy who loved seeing these five guys singing and dancing, especially as the majority of their fans were girls. Us guys were the hidden fans, usually ignored but there in the crowd. I'm still a huge fan many years later, but with this book, I again felt like a hidden, ignored portion of the group's fans. I mean the title says it all, but I still read the book. I'm a fan even when authors like Nikki Van Noy don't acknowledge that.

The book is an interesting read because not only does it go into depth of each of the Kids' childhoods, but it traces the origins of the group and how it all came together. She then writes about their upper momentum into a blockbuster singing group and then eventual downward trajectory. Sprinkled throughout all this are memories from the Kids' fans. We get many stories about how much the group meant to all of these different women. Unfortunately, there is only one story from a male fan. Ignored group!!!

The book is fairly honest. We hear stories from the guys about the joy, excitement, and frustrations with the history of the group. We also learn that things weren't always so wonderful for them and between them. They don't hold back which is refreshing. They also are honest about how grateful they are about how things have turned for them since the reunion. It's been fun seeing the entire group back at the forefront of the music industry.

This is a good read, but I wish the author would have spoken to a more diverse group of fans. The book could have been better for it and would have gotten 5 stars from me because of it.

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I've been a Blockhead since I was a kid so I was excited to read about the boys I grew up loving. While I learned a few new things, I found the book to be heavy on fan experiences and I skimmed through much of that.
It makes sense to include them because I realize how much the fans are a part of NKOTB, but I would've rather read more in-depth stories about the band rather than ladies I don't know.

Jun 13, 2019 Stacy rated it it was amazing

Such a great book for HardCore BlockHeads!!! I'm 24 and I've been an BlockHead my whole life, I've always loved and supported NKOTB.. but after reading this book, I have the uttermost respect for everything they do! They do for us!!!❤️❤️ Such a great book for HardCore BlockHeads!!! I'm 24 and I've been an BlockHead my whole life, I've always loved and supported NKOTB.. but after reading this book, I have the uttermost respect for everything they do! They do for us!!!❤️❤️ ...more

I love New Kids on the Block and I have been a fan since 2008 when the boys got back together and I love this book as you get pictures, you get to hear all five guys talk about how NKOTB started, the madness of the popular years, the breakup and the reunion. You also get to hear from the fans.

New kids...there is no better

Ive been a fan for so many years. And found this book and i laughed and cried throughout.
Im so proud to be a blockead.

Read on nook, good, but a lot of the stories from the New Kids have been shared in interviews.

Jul 26, 2012 Corey rated it liked it

Oh boy, this is a hard review to write.

I'm a New Kids fan, have been since I first heard them, followed them through their solo careers and continued on to camp out on the streets of NYC just to see their first "official" reunion concert for the Today Show (even got a broken nose from an overzealous fan going crazy when they came out on stage). I enjoy their music and I've always liked them as a group and their dynamic. I've done VIP. I've even made life long friends thanks to them (currently o

Oh boy, this is a hard review to write.

This being said... this book isn't really for the fans. If you are even a moderate fan you would know most of the details. However, being one of the more hardcore fans, there wasn't a lot here that I felt that I learned about them. The good bits were fluffed up and talked about in detail but the dramas were barely touched upon or discussed, most of them glossed over with a statement and moved on abruptly to the next piece of the story. While I don't expect that they'd have authorized a book spilling lots of dirt and nasty things, I would have liked to have learned more about the fights they had the first time around. The book mentions in passing that Joe was being choked by Donnie on the side of the road but never gave the context behind it. This is an example of one of many incidents such as this in the book. I know no one wants to dwell on the bad things in the past but this was part of their story.

I do like the format of the book and how the story was mostly told via quotes, mostly from NKOTB or their families. I agree with other reviewers that there was a bit too much with the fan stories, those are a big part of the NKOTB story but not the only bit. I also liked that the pictures were at the end and told stories on their own. I would have liked to have read the stories that went along with the pictures. Finally, the last section in the book about fans was really sweet and it did touch me. I'm glad it ended on a good note.

Overall I think this book is more of the memento kind of book you buy for a friend whom is a moderate NKOTB fan (because all Blockheads already own it) or a book to read if you didn't grow up with them but love them now thanks to BSB. However I don't think it's a must-read for any fan that has kept up remotely with their stories, especially if they follow them on Twitter.

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Oct 23, 2012 Stacy rated it it was amazing

I have been a BLOCKhead since I was a kid. This books is filled with so many fan stories about how NKOTB got them through tough times as a kid. I feel lucky to be able to say that I didn't have tough times to go through, I had a great childhood and having NKOTB be a part of that made it so much better.

I had always viewed the guys as untouchable, whether I can ever afford to buy a meet and greet concert ticket or a cruise ticket, or not. But after reading this, and finding out so much more about

I had always viewed the guys as untouchable, whether I can ever afford to buy a meet and greet concert ticket or a cruise ticket, or not. But after reading this, and finding out so much more about them than I already knew - the devotion and appreciation they have of us, the fans, I'm blown away. It makes me that much more determined to someday be able to get one of those coveted tickets or go on one of the cruises.

We didn't have a lot of money growing up, we weren't poor either. We were probably on the lower end of middle-class. So I never got to go to a concert during the first go around. I didn't have as much of the merchandise as I would've loved to have. In fact, all I can remember having was a pillowcase (I slept on Joe's face every night, LOL!), a huge puzzle, a calendar (maybe?), posters, and a bunch of pictures ripped out of magazines wallpapering my walls.

I grew up in the sticks, so NKOTB merch was hard to come by. I remember going to Kmart and getting so excited to finally see a NKOTB shirt there and being heartbroken that they didn't have my size. My mom was going to buy me one but had to fill out a rain check slip instead. It was never fulfilled.

When I finally got to see them during the reunion tour, I was blown away, it was like my childhood dreams come true. All the love that I had for them came back in full force. I can proudly say I've seen them 4 times now and I hope for more. Each time I see them, it's better than the last.

But I digress....back to the book - it was awesome to get an in depth history of the band and how it was formed. I loved reading the quotes from the guys and their parents. Now I realize they are not untouchable, while they are still huge to me, they're more down-to-earth and approachable. I have a twitter account and follow all of them, but I didn't realize that they actually interact with the fans. That just amazes me that they take time out of their lives to do that. It just makes my love for this band that much more concrete whether they're together and performing or not. I feel like it's a gift, this second time around with them.

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Jun 15, 2012 Kay rated it really liked it

My goodreads friends know that I'm a die hard fan girl of NKOTB. So, when the news broke about this authorized biography, I was all up on the pre-order when it was available. This book takes you through the New Kids' journey…from the start, to their breakup, to their reunion and then to present time. This was descriptively well written with many quotes from the New Kids. Each chapter ends with a personal fan experience with the band…such as Donnie helping a fan find a donor match for a kidney tr My goodreads friends know that I'm a die hard fan girl of NKOTB. So, when the news broke about this authorized biography, I was all up on the pre-order when it was available. This book takes you through the New Kids' journey…from the start, to their breakup, to their reunion and then to present time. This was descriptively well written with many quotes from the New Kids. Each chapter ends with a personal fan experience with the band…such as Donnie helping a fan find a donor match for a kidney transplant *tear*, a military family receiving a free invite to the NKOTB cruise and then a fun encounter about the "Baby Mama Bus." A lot of these fan experiences were familiar to me through the twitterverse and the Block Nation fan club but it was nice to get the straight story and quotes from each source.

The majority of the book had information that most fans have heard about through interviews, past books such as Our Story: New Kids on the Block and other sources (legitimate or not). I would have liked to read more about each New Kids' struggles after the band broke up. Most of that time was glossed over with just surface level mentions of their issues. I wouldn't say that this is a shockingly, revealing, tell-all book but definitely a fun, must read for any Blockhead.

As for the title, it is so fitting. I finish this review with a youtube video montage of Joe's song, 5 Brothers and a Million Sisters. I'm not afraid to admit that I teared up the first time he debuted it at a concert in Santa Barbara, CA which I was so lucky to be at!

Goodreads still has issues with embedding youtube videos but here's the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AydKfi...

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http://anovelreview.blogspot.com/2012...

The biography starts, well at the beginning, when they were just a bunch of boys in their neighborhood. It was interesting to read how most of their lives overlapped and how they came together. I think for me the first part of the book was the most interesting. They discussed some of the issues/rumors that surrounded the band being manufactured and the Milli Vanilli scandal. I mean as a teen girl I loved them, but reading this took me back and walked me th

http://anovelreview.blogspot.com/2012...

It was also a cool biography because it gave the fans a chance to speak out about their part of the NKOTB movement. I had to laugh because I remember being like so many of the girls (well I guess now they are women too!). It was fun to go back. As I read, I'd sit there looking up videos of them on you-tube and watch them.

They talk about the bands break-up and getting the band back together. I remember watching Dancing with the Stars when Joey Intyre was on, thinking man I'd love it if the New Kids got back together! I would have liked to have read a little more about their time not being in the band and would have enjoyed seeing more photos over the last thirty years included in the book. I'm not one who normally reads biographies or memoirs, but honestly this was a treat. Took me back to my youth and allowed me access to the boys that once adorned my bedroom walls.

I felt this would be an enjoyable read for NKOTB fans, even if you just enjoyed the music and weren't all 'into' the band.

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Jul 13, 2015 Amanda rated it really liked it

I was too young to get into the New Kids when they were out originally in the late 1980s/early 1990s but I did know their big hits, thanks to an older friend who introduced me to Cover Girl on my cassette player. As a teenage Backstreet Boys fan, I was more aware of boy bands and those who came before. However, when NKOTB reunited in 2008, I became obsessed - Summertime and the new album were fantastic, and I was so jealous of my friends who went to see the first tour. I got my chance to see NKO I was too young to get into the New Kids when they were out originally in the late 1980s/early 1990s but I did know their big hits, thanks to an older friend who introduced me to Cover Girl on my cassette player. As a teenage Backstreet Boys fan, I was more aware of boy bands and those who came before. However, when NKOTB reunited in 2008, I became obsessed - Summertime and the new album were fantastic, and I was so jealous of my friends who went to see the first tour. I got my chance to see NKOTB when they toured with BSB in the summer of 2011 (three times in fact) and just recently saw them during their Main Event tour - and they are FABULOUS. They have quickly become one of my favourite groups, so I was excited to pick up this authorized biography, as I didn't know much about their beginnings!

I thought this was a good introduction for a newer Blockhead like me, although it did seem to gloss over any unhappiness (I wasn't surprised Donnie's antics weren't included) in the band. I did like learning about how they formed and the way that they reunited in 2008. The book is told mostly through direct quotes from the boys, interspersed with fan stories. I thought this worked well although I would have liked some more "juicier" details - I noticed that their relationships and family lives weren't really included, though perhaps this is something they choose to keep to themselves! I did like that Jon's anxiety issues and Jordan's alcohol issues were touched upon, though very quickly!

Overall, a great book for a new fan, though I suppose there isn't much new for the diehard Blockheads!

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This was a Christmas gift from a die-hard NKOTB fan, and I'm glad she thought of me. It was fun to read about the band's early success. To read about tv appearances that I remember seeing and to hear the behind the scenes stuff was really cool. As always, reminiscing about these five boys from Boston brings me back to my youth and makes me happy.
It was also interesting and eye-opening to have a clearer picture of how they started out in Boston and were only marketed on Black radio stations and p This was a Christmas gift from a die-hard NKOTB fan, and I'm glad she thought of me. It was fun to read about the band's early success. To read about tv appearances that I remember seeing and to hear the behind the scenes stuff was really cool. As always, reminiscing about these five boys from Boston brings me back to my youth and makes me happy.
It was also interesting and eye-opening to have a clearer picture of how they started out in Boston and were only marketed on Black radio stations and played in front of all Black crowds. Then to read about how the Step by Step album was an album that they all felt disconnected from makes sense, as it was completely different fromt the Hangin' Tough album which still held some R&B feel to it.
I think if I read this candid of a story 10 or 15 years ago it would have burst my bubble. Of couse when I was 12 years old and in love with them I imagined that they were all the best of friends. But in reading this you find out that they didn't always get along and how seriously the skyrocket to fame took its toll on them. The fact that they basically say they didn't enjoy the Magic Summer tour at all is just crazy! BUT--reading it now, as a mature adult, and not as a crazy teenage girl, it makes sense and I'm not offended by it.
The only thing that disappointed me is that I was hoping for information about their personal lives, but I can respect that they still want some things to remain private. ...more

Having been a fan of New Kids On The Block since 1989, I wasn't sure if I wanted to read this book. What was it going to tell me of the backstory that I hadn't heard a thousand times over the years from several different angles? And what could it tell me about how the reunion came to be that fans hadn't already heard in countless interviews since 2008?

Because I was developing such strong opinions based on only reading a chapter excerpt, I decided to give it a fair shot. This book is what I thoug

Because I was developing such strong opinions based on only reading a chapter excerpt, I decided to give it a fair shot. This book is what I thought it would be for the most part. There are interviews with NKOTB and management inter-mingling with fan stories but really there is not a lot of things that a veteran NKOTB fan didn't know.

This book is a surface scratcher. A highlight reel mostly. A fluff piece. It made me laugh sometimes and cry sometimes.

It is well-written and there is a natural flow...so much so that I didn't realize that a chapter was 20+ pages til I came to the next chapter and I kept reading. The author has a definite gift for descriptions and visuals.

Making the old sound new again is how I would describe this book.

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Bossy, bumbly, and Betty! Humor books from 2011 until today have unpacked experiences from everyday hilarity to the outright uncomfortable...

"Kimberly Reed explains why this love has transferred to adulthood, saying, "When you love something as a kid, you never stop loving it; you just tuck that love away in a different spot in your heart." — 6 likes

"For as much as many NKOTB fans have been caught off guard by how much this has all meant, so too have some of the guys. Donnie says, "It was a surprise to me how fulfilling it was. It was a surprise to me how emotional it was, how rewarding it was. And quite frankly, how wrapped up in the fans I am. I'm not caught up in the hype. I don't need it. I don't need some fulfillment. I can live without it. But I don't want to. I love making people smile. I love sharing myself. I love the feeling of making people happy. I love the fact that, for whatever reason, I've been put in a position to change people's lives in a simple way. I'm not healing diseases. But I can make someone happy, even for a short time." — 3 likes

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5 Brothers and a Million Sisters

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