This book is for the true fan of James Cagney. Mr. Cagney tells his story as no one can. About the Author: James Cagney was an Academy Award-nominated American actor and dancer on stage and screen. He was the recipient of the American Film Institute's Life Achievement Award, the Kennedy Center Honors, and a Career Achievement Award from the National Board of Review. His autobiography, Cagney by Cagney , was published in 1976. He died in 1986.