cover image Michael Landon's Legacy: 7 Keys to Supercharging Your Life

Michael Landon's Legacy: 7 Keys to Supercharging Your Life

Cheryl Landon. Hampton Roads Publishing Company, $22.95 (172pp) ISBN 978-1-57174-285-8

Landon, stepdaughter of deceased Hollywood actor and producer Michael Landon, has overcome many traumas in life. She was abandoned by her mother to be raised by abusive relatives, suffered from drug addictions and suicide attempts and barely survived an automobile accident that nearly left her crippled. This book demonstrates Landon's commendable attitude, showing how she has chosen forgiveness, love and courage when bitterness would have been an easy route. What is very evident is that she passionately loves Michael Landon with rose-tinted glasses, as he was the one person in her life who unconditionally loved her and stood by her. What is not so clear, and at times leaves the reader befuddled, is how Landon explains her spiritual philosophy. She pegs herself as a born-again Christian, but also believes in reincarnation, follows the Church of Religious Science and embraces many New Age concepts. Landon's mission is to raise a healthy generation of children using seven keys: readers should trust in God, choose love over fear, believe that daily miracles can occur, take action now, believe in truth between people, build bridges and refrain from judging each other. In committing to follow these key behaviors, Landon feels that the world would further the message that her beloved stepfather espoused in his television shows and on his deathbed: ""Love one another."" While these sentiments are well-intended, much of the book is a muddle. (Feb.) Forecast: Landon's previous book, I Promised My Dad (S&S), sold over 600,000 copies. Hampton Roads plans a 200,000-copy first printing of this new title, and a national advertising and publicity campaign. Michael Landon remains a beloved figure; expect vigorous sales.