We’ve all seen them. Celebrities hit rock bottom and then once they start making a comeback they write a book promoting how they’ve learned from their mistakes and have overcome them to be a better person.

How many of these have you believed? How many are publicity stunts?

I know for me, I often jump to the conclusion that the person is lying. They’re just trying to get back into the spotlight. But at the same time I do believe people can change.

I’m not sure what the case is for Philadelphia Eagles quarterback and former VT football star Michael Vick who spent 18 months in prison on dogfighting charges.

His autobiography “Finally Free,” published by Worthy Publishing a Christian publisher, came out in September, 2012. According to michaelvickstory.com, “The book shows us how a young, gifted athlete’s life spiraled out of control under the glare of money and fame… How a broken man sought and received forgiveness for his wrongs.”

Earlier today I read an article on CNN talking about how Vick canceled books signings due to threats of violence. The article prompted me to read the book reviews on Barnes & Noble’s website. Most of them are one star reviews based on people’s opinion of him as a person. Many saying they “would never spend a penny on the book.”  Very few of the reviewers either high or low seemed to have read the book. Some giving it high rankings because they think he deserved a second chance.

I haven’t read the book and have no plans to do so. And neither am I defending him. But I simply don’t understand the threats of violence and property damage to the bookstore. Picketing, protests, yes. Violence, I don’t get it.

What do you think of that kind of reaction to his book? How does this compare to other celebrity books? Do they have valid stories or are they just trying to make a buck?