Genres Books

Shouldn't the term "genius" be reserved for names like Mozart, Bach, and Beethoven? Does the term even come close to fitting Louis Armstrong? Absolutely. If you have any doubt as to Armstrong's place in music history, pick up this book and dive in. Giddins embraces not only the talent and genius of Armstrong, but also the humor, warmth, and generosity of the man. `Satchmo' is not so much a biography of the jazz pioneer as it is a celebration of the man's gift to the world: his music.

Giddins follows Armstrong's early days in New Orleans to his final days of touring and recording. The book focuses heavily on Armstrong's music, but readers won't need a degree in music to understand what Giddins is saying. The author quotes copiously from Armstrong himself, giving us an in-depth look at who Armstrong was and how he thought about music, race relations, friends, wives, and his philosophy on life.

`Satchmo' is a perfect introduction to the wonderful world of Louis Armstrong. If you want to know if a piece of non-fiction works, ask yourself after reading if you'd like to learn more about the subject. I warn you - after reading `Satchmo' you'll want to read more AND listen to each recording mentioned by Giddins...over and over and over. And you'll do it. And the songs won't ever grow stale. And you'll hear something different each time. That's the sign of genius.

190 pages

This book is brilliantly put together with great photos, newly found and well-crafted biographical information, and personal writings from Armstrong himself. It's a joy to read from cover to cover. Amazingly, it gets more interesting and fun to read a second, and third time. For any lover of Louis Armstrong this book is a must! Gary Giddins has written a great book. Look for his biography on Bing Crosby (Volume one)!!!

This is one of the best books about Louis I've read and the reason is simple. Giddins clearly lays out the reasons why Pops was the greatest influence on modern music that this country has produced. His love for the man and the music comes through on every page. This is a wonderful almost poetic homage to a great and deserving artist. I loved the Bergreen biography and rated that 5 stars as well. That book is a fine chronological story of a fascinating life. This book is a musical biography that truly captures the essence of Louis Armstrong as well as anything written posthumously can be expected to. If you're a fan of Louis Armstrong you cannot afford to miss this. If you are curious as to why Louis Armstrong has become such an American icon this book will provide the answer.

Louis Armstrong is one of the central figures along with Duke Ellington of Giddins's incredible Visions of Jazz, and that sent me to Satchmo, a mindblowing collection of photographs and a biographical and musical discussion that brings the man and his work to life. Although Giddins covers some of the same ground here as in Visions, it is a far more expansive study built on the idea that Armstrong was at once a great artist and a great entertainer and that his role in one area did not diminish his role in the other. The pictures are remarkable, and numerous excerps from Armstrong's own writing show what a decent and joyful man he was. Highly recommended.

Who knew that someone from such humble beginnings could become one of the greatest trumpeters and entertainers of all time? Well, meet Louis Armstrong. He came from the wrong side of the tracks, in a "red light district." Only in Satchmo: The Genius of Louis Armstrong by Gary Giddens can this be discovered. This book was published by De Capo Press on January 16, 2001. The story is inspirational, showing that anyone can become famous, from the most humble beginnings.

Louis Armstrong's story is an example of the life one can create in America. Being born into such poor conditions, it was amazing he could rise from pennies to diamonds. However, he had another disadvantage, being black. This story demonstrates anyone can be successful, no matter what race or ethnicity.

The story opens with a description of the doonies of New Orleans. The time was 1908, the year of Louis Armstrong's birth. The neighborhood was horrible, nothing but criminals and prostitutes. His own sister became a prostitute. However, even though most in his family were failures, he would show the world that he would not become one.

The following is a list of the main characters:

Louis Armstrong: Jazz trumpeter, and soon to become one of the most unforgettable voices in the world.

Mayann: Louis' older sister, who helped raise him, became a prostitute, but then repented as her brother became more famous.

There are many other characters, including his first wife, Daisy. He later married three more times. His home life was not so hot. He had many fights with his wives, and ended-up leaving each one for another.

Louis' life grew more successful as he moved on. Even when Rock and Roll the big hit on the pop charts, he was able to make a huge comeback. He had many hits, such as "What a Wonderful World." Earlier in his career, he would seldom be allowed to sing. He would play second fiddle to many different bands. Whenever Louis had the chance to play and sing in front of an audience, they adored him. However, his bandleaders always held him back.

The best part of the book was when he finally got his chance. He quit the band he was a member of and started his own group. He recorded his first song, "Lazy River." The people running the studio thought this man will not go anywhere. However the song hit number one. An overnight sensation was born.

Satchmo: The Genius of Louis Armstrong will stay popular because it is a loving portrait of a man who would change the face of music forever. It is a wonderful example of the American Dream, with a happy ending.

Bought and read it twice in a couple weeks. Terrific imagery into old New Orleans. Get it- you'll love it.

This book is a quick and enjoyable read, but the reader needs to be ready for a very simple and unpretentious telling of Satchmo's early years. Some of his writing is charming in its simplicity, but some of it is pretty clunky.

For example, here is part of the dialog he documents between him and his mother, after he abruptly got married without her knowledge. Armstrong, defending his decision, says to his mother, "You must realize that I didn't go any further than fifth grade in school myself. But with my good sense and mother-wit (sic), and knowing how to treat and respect the feelings of other people, that's all I've needed in life. You taught me that, mother." A fine philosophy of life, put in humble and concise manner. But then he goes on to write, "Then she said, 'You must bring your wife to me; I want to meet her.' With a palpating heart I gave a big sigh of relief and said: 'Oh, thanks, mom.'" (page 160)

Adding some additional information, such as notations explaining some of the other characters and some of the background to the colorful scenes he describes, would make this a great book. As it is, it is a fun and quick read that fans of jazz shouldn't miss.

What shines through this recollection of Louis Armstrong's youth in New Orleans is the essential positive outlook this man seems to have been born with despite the hardship of his early years. This "life-force' for lack of a better term is what drove his musicianship to such heights that he is the most revered American musician of the 20th century. While this is no scholalry biography it is written with the feel of an oral history and reading it is much like having Satch relate these tales over a few drinks. Not only does it shed much light on the real person that Louis Armstrong was but it also reflects an era in old New Orleans that is absolutely fascinating to read about in the words of someone who lived there. This is a hugely enjoyable book on numerous levels and for fans of Armstrong it is indispensible.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The editors kept Armstrong's voice true to the legend and honest in its depictions of his sometimes harsh life in New Orleans. However, Artmstrong's sense of humor and goodness shine through his story and the reader really learns to like him as a person as well as a great musician. As a native New Orleanian, I really enjoyed his descriptions of the city during that time. I look forward to reading this book again!

You left you music to carry on so majestic, so elogant. Your music makes the song bird sing, while traveling in rainey and sunny New Orleans skies. Your music makes southern bees dance and fly. When I here your music, I just let my mind give over to your music. When I want to relax, your music, I choose it. It's jazzy, calm and cool. Your music makes me feel like I'm retiring on a raft in a pool. Your music is a real jewel.

A Sea of Troubles takes place on the island of Pellestrina, one of the 2 barrier islands that enclose the lagoon of Venice. Two fishermen are murdered and their boat blown up, and none of the residents will give any information to the police. Signorina Elettra Zorzi has a cousin on the island and visits every summer, so she volunteers, against Brunetti's wishes, to go to the island to see if she can find out anything.

The investigation reveals that clamming in the Venice lagoon is lucrative, and that clammers incur the hatred of other fisherman, because they dredge the bottom leaving nothing behind. And we learn also about the poisons pumped into the lagoon, and the clam beds, by the refineries and factories at Marghera.

This is one of the weaker of the Brunetti series. Leon tried to fill out the character of Elettra by taking her outside the office environment, but it just didn't work well.

For those of us who have read all the other books in the series, this one was interesting and not at all bad. For someone just starting the series, I would put this one low on the priority list.

Leon's detective, Commissario Brunetti is a cultured Venetian, much given to pondering the mysteries of life, and engaging with his equally urbane literature professor wife.
Each book in the series, as well as providing a well-plotted mystery, advances the relationships between the recurring cast. Particularly attractive is the rather enigmatic Signorina Elettra, for whom Brunetti holds an (always gentlemanly) candle!

I found this story really interesting, set as it is on one of the outer islands of Venice, away from the usual tourist haunts.

This series of mysteries by Donna Leon features a clever detective and a setting in Venice. Leon has lived abroad for years but she is from New Jersey and she is bright. I've read few mysteries prior to discovering this series, now I can't find enough of them to read. (I wish I still had my bookstore in order to direct readers to these!) To keep a loyal following a series must be fresh, entertaining and must feature an admirable character...Guido Brunetti fits the bill! His wife is a professor and his children act like teenagers (in Italy). The setting is fascinating. I've never seen Venice but it is great fun to read about as Guido pursues the murderer through the city. Please, Amazon, get them here faster!

A Sea of Troubles is a pleasant change in the Guido Brunetti series. Although Venice is surrounded (and almost inundated by) the sea, there's often little sense of that element in the earlier stories except in recounting the need to take a boat or vaporetto to get somewhere. In this book, we learn about fishing and its challenges (for fisherman and those who eat their catch) as Donna Leon takes us southwest of Venice to the long, thin island of Pellestrina.

The opening of the book contains an excellent map of Venice and its lagoon that covers an area of about 40 by 25 kilometers. Stick a book mark into where that map is: You'll be referring to the map often.

A fire breaks out on a fishing boat docked on Pellestrina. Soon, the whole harbor is filled with fishermen seeking to save their boats. After things settle down, someone notices that two fishermen are missing.

Before long, the various police bureaucracies are vying to get rid of the case. Commissario Guido Brunetti is the lucky winner and finds himself up against a town that doesn't talk to outsiders . . . and certainly not to Venetian policemen.

While seeking to learn more about what happened, Signorina Elletra Zorzi decides she would like to play undercover detective by spending a few days with her cousin on Pellestrina. Who knows? Perhaps someone will tell her something.

Guido is very opposed but knows he cannot sway Signorina Elletra. However, he can try to protect her. Even Paolo begins to notice that Guido is obsessed. Could it be that his feelings for Signorina Elletra are more than what they seem?

As usual, back channels begin to provide the information that reveals who had the motive for crime. With that knowledge, Brunetti knows that he's got a dangerous task ahead.

I cannot remember reading another book by Donna Leon that is as well steeped in local geography and conditions as A Sea of Troubles is. It makes for a compelling story.

I also liked the way Ms. Leon changed the focus of an investigation to put Signorina Elletra into a role other than as computer hacker and lover of flowers and fine clothes.

The plot also successfully triangulates the themes of private and public corruption that abound in this series with family ties and personal friendships. In that context, Ms. Leon asks a very fundamental question that will intrigue you: How well do we know anyone else?

Have a great trip to Pellestrina!

And be careful where you get your clams.

Donna Leon simply is a mesmerizing writer. No other author--and some do come
close--approaches her today in terms of suspense, characterization, plot
development, and social significance. In "Sea of Troubles," she continues her
exceptional level of excellence. I could hardly wait for this edition (it's not available
for some incredible reason in the States!)to arrive.

Guido Brunetti has his hands full, once more. Two men (a father and his son) are
found murdered in a sunken fishing boat in the waters off Pelligrina. However, the
villagers close ranks and are in no hurry to cooperate with the police. Enjoining the
services of Signorina Ellatra, Brunetti begins a painful, plodding investigation.
With this type of story, Leon is quite good--and she never lets up on the
environmental issues ("Don't eat the shellfish!").

Her murderers don't come as surprises in the final pages, as Leon doesn't use this
device; instead, she depends upon the brilliant thinking of Brunetti and his team to
bring the guilty, whom we know early enough, to bear. This is not to say that "Sea
of Troubles" doesn't contain great suspense--it does. And Leon, who clearly is in
love with Venice, captains this book in the best of traditions. Lucky she has Guido
Brunetti and his staff and family as crew members. Don't miss this one! (Billyjhobbs@tyler.net)

Patricia Monaghan, probably my favorite Goddess-spirituality author ever, does it again with _Seasons of the Witch_. ... Monaghan's emotional and moving poetry is wonderful. You can just read it for enjoyment, or use it in ritual. It includes "general" poems about witchcraft, a lot of Greek- and Celtic- inspired material, a few poems dealing with other myths, and a dash of fairy-tale material. All of it is very good. (One thing that makes Monaghan stand out in her field, by the way, is her refusal to bash males. Other goddess authors ignore or demean men, but many of Monaghan's poems celebrate love for men in a sensual and lyrical way.)

There is also a gorgeous accompanying CD, featuring several performers who have set selected poems to music. You'll want to hang on to this, too, either just to listen to for pleasure, or to play during ritual.

I would talk more specifically about the poems, but I can't do them justice in prose. I wish Amazon had a "see inside" feature on this book, so you could browse the first few poems and see if you like Monaghan's style.

I also must commend cover artist Gavin Duffy. For a moment, I thought Monaghan had switched publishers! Note to Llewellyn: More covers like this, please! In fact, more books like these--both in appearance and in content. This is a rare gem.

When we raise our voices to praise the Goddess, we find our voice sometimes in poetry, or sometimes in prose and most often in song.

This book is a collection of some of Patricia Monaghan's work. The book is divided into seasons, and each season is created in our minds in beautiful poetry and visualized prose. We are lead around the seasons, shown the associations of the elements, the Wheel of Life, and the different forms of the Goddess.

Ms. Monaghan is a talented and very well known poet. Her works have appeared in many magazines.

This book also contains a CD which has placed 25 of her poems into song. The poetry becomes devotional songs, and we find ourselves delicately woven into the visualizations by the enchanting voices of Peggy Monaghan, Sally Coombs, Susan La Croiz, Claudia Blythe, Kirsten Baird Gustafson and Lili McGovern. James Robbins also appears on one of the tracks.

As you read, and listen, you are drawn in by the delicate imagery Ms. Monaghan uses. Ever present is her love for the Goddess, her understanding of the elements and we feel her love and warmth in each piece.

This is a nice break from the handbooks and instructional manuals that dominate the market. Personal expression rather than personal opinion is always a nice change. The CD is professionally produced, the book is nicely bound, and the quality of the material makes this an outstanding package and a nice presentation.

This is a book that can be appreciated by anyone with a soul for poetry or devotional prose. It would make a wonderful gift and a lovely addition to your library.

Sometimes we need to step back from the "how to" books and remember "why".

This is an absolute treasure of a book. The title is a little misleading though. This book is not just for witches but for goddess loving folk everywhere. It's poetry, not an instructional manual for witchcraft or even "how to find the goddess." Although it's not a manual, it certainly helps the reader to connect with the goddess on an emotional, instinctual level. Almost every poem pulls me right at my very core. I feel a deep inner understanding of what the author is saying, and through her written experience of the goddess, I touch Her too. Wonderful, transcendent poetry.

The CD is very good too. It's well-produced, and the music meshes well with the poems. I haven't done so yet, but I think it would be excellent music to use in ritual.

This isn't the dry, highbrow stuff forced down your throat in high school. This is juicy, magical, alive and exciting. There is romance, myth, anger, fear and wonder.

I've performed these poems to great effect, and had many people ask where they could get the book. I've heard it's coming back in print and that's tremendously exciting.

Patricia Monaghan has written numerous books on Goddesses and myth, including the brilliant "O, Mother Sun," and has another poetry collection, "Winterburning."

I bought this book/CD two months ago, and I still haven't tired of listening to the CD and reading the poetry on a regular basis. Monaghan is a very talented poet; She conveys images and emotions so well through her words! It's really wonderful... some of the best poetry I've ever read. The songs on the CD are also beautiful. They are Patricia's poems set to music that was written and performed by each artist, so the instrumental and vocal styles are often quite varied (in a good way). One of the vocalists is Patricia's sister, Peggy Monaghan, and some of the others include Lili McGovern, Claudia Blythe, Sally Coombs, and Kirsten Baird Gustafson. All of these singers and musicians are very talented, but I am lukewarm on a couple of the songs because I personally don't like the singer's vocal style and she sounds a tad flat to my ears throughout the song. Despite that, the CD is currently one of my favorites to listen to on a regular basis. Just a few of my personal favorite songs/poems include Peggy's version of "Maenad in Spring," and "Maeve Prepares for Beltane," "The Maenad Remembers Dionysus," and "Procedure for Reclaiming the Self," but all of the poems and songs are really special. I highly recommend this book/CD set to anyone who enjoys Goddess-based poetry and music.

When Megan comes home from the University and finds her father's financial situation is in as much of a shamble as her life where can she turn? Cesare will take care of everything, but will his price be too high for her to pay?

Kate Walker again shows why she is the absolute Queen of emotional dialogue. Ms. Walker plays on the reader's heartstrings like a master harpist. Her characters' trials and anguish are so carefully crafted that the reader is pulled into the storms of inner feelings and can feel the characters' pain and sorrow, as well as their eventual joy. If you are looking for an emotional ride, be sure to grab a copy of THE SICILIAN'S WIFE.

If you weren�t a fan before you will be after reading this one.
Kate Walker is back and at it again, sweeping readers off their feet with her newest romance, The Sicilian's Wife. This is a romance so full of [physical] tension that every time Megan and Cesare are within site of each other it crackles with electrical sparks that make it feel like the book is ready to explode right in your hands. The Sicilian's Wife is a superb example of the enchanting romances and captivating characters that are a staple to be found in all Kate Walker romance books. To be sure, it is some of the most entertaining and highly sensual reading the Harlequin Presents line has seen in a long time. The Sicilian's Wife has already become one of my favorite Kate Walker romance books. Why? Because I loved how Ms. Walker went outside the normal �woman pining away for a man storyline� and created a male who fell in love and was willing to wait without confessing his feelings and putting any pressure on the lady in question. Talented and gifted Kate Walker writes a romance that combines characters like Cesare and Megan, who can�t help but [take] your heart away and leave you smiling through your tears of joy. She also gives the reader exotic locales and enticing [physical] tension. This brings the reader to the conclusion that this is another must read romance that is sure to find its way onto million�s of keeper shelves throughout the globe. Knowing Kate Walker, is it any wonder why? When you�re out there looking for a romance book that not only makes for good reading but also has the ability to reach out and touch the deepest recesses of your heart, mind, and soul, then Ms. Walker�s The Sicilian�s Wife is one romance that needs to be on the top of your list. I can promise you this: if you weren�t a fan before you will be after reading this one.
~ Diana Tidlund - ...

Kate Walker again shows why she is the absolute Queen of emotional dialogue. Ms. Walker plays on the reader's heartstrings like a master harpist. Her characters' trials and anguish are so carefully crafted that the reader is pulled into the storms of inner feelings and can feel the characters' pain and sorrow, as well as their eventual joy. If you are looking for an emotional ride, be sure to grab a copy of THE SICILIAN'S WIFE.

If you weren�t a fan before you will be after reading this one.
Kate Walker is back and at it again, sweeping readers off their feet with her newest romance, The Sicilian's Wife. This is a romance so full of sexual tension that every time Megan and Cesare are within site of each other it crackles with electrical sparks that make it feel like the book is ready to explode right in your hands. The Sicilian's Wife is a superb example of the enchanting romances and captivating characters that are a staple to be found in all Kate Walker romance books. To be sure, it is some of the most entertaining and highly sensual reading the Harlequin Presents line has seen in a long time. The Sicilian's Wife has already become one of my favorite Kate Walker romance books. Why? Because I loved how Ms. Walker went outside the normal �woman pining away for a man storyline� and created a male who fell in love and was willing to wait without confessing his feelings and putting any pressure on the lady in question. Talented and gifted Kate Walker writes a romance that combines characters like Cesare and Megan, who can�t help but steal your heart away and leave you smiling through your tears of joy. She also gives the reader exotic locales and enticing sexual tension. This brings the reader to the conclusion that this is another must read romance that is sure to find its way onto million�s of keeper shelves throughout the globe. Knowing Kate Walker, is it any wonder why? When you�re out there looking for a romance book that not only makes for good reading but also has the ability to reach out and touch the deepest recesses of your heart, mind, and soul, then Ms. Walker�s The Sicilian�s Wife is one romance that needs to be on the top of your list. I can promise you this: if you weren�t a fan before you will be after reading this one.
~ Diana Tidlund - Writers Unlimited

Cesare and Megan marry for what seems like the most practical reason of all...she's pregnant. Thing is, it's another man's baby. Cesare steps into the role of husband and father, only to discover there won't be a baby after all. Can they make the marriage work? Two people who leave too many words unsaid--words that need to be said--do they have a chance at love?

Kate Walker shines in The Sicilian's Wife!

I grew up in upstate New York on the Canadian border in the 50's and can remember listening to Country music in the 40's, actually. It was MY music! I was sixteen in 1957 when the author was born. I had about three years of guitar under my belt by then and had switched to Rockabilly but the love of Country remained. We weren't poor or dysfunctional but no more than blue collar working class people. I recall hearing more Country on Canadian radio stations than American up that way. But there was a lot of it. Lots of people young and old listened to Country back then in my hometown. The author confirms that that was happening all over the Northeast and I suspect all over the country. I enjoyed the book very much. I remember a friend of mine from North Carolina years ago telling me if it weren't for white trash there wouldn't be any Country music. He was joking but there is some truth in it I suppose. I would recommend this book to any Country fan young or old. A four star book for sure. It was a great era. It was certainly the golden age of electric Country music. This book defines it well.

Like the author, I was a yankee (New Jersey in my case, NH in his) who grew up in a poor white family whose main musical preference was country. I am older than the author, and his 1960's experiences were my '50's memories. My family was maybe a bit less broke, a bit more functional despite the presence of a lot of drinking. But Hank Williams and Slim Whitman and Eddy Arnold and the Sons of the Pioneers and Gene Autry and Roy Rogers and Jimmy Wakely and Red Foley and Tex Ritter were on our turntable all the time. Auto mechanics directly, and auto racing indirectly, and fishing and hunting and target shooting were the big recreational events of my youth. My folks had schooling that stopped at fourth grade for my orphaned dad and sixth grade for my ma. There were sporadic tragedies involving guns and cars and divorces and diseases and feuds in my extended clan. Dana Jennings has written about this kind of childhood, punctuated by what is now called "classic country music" and I identified with almost all of what he went through and what he thinks about it. Like him, I escaped into journalism. Despite our similar backgrounds, I could not have written nearly as well about my family as he wrote about his own. I think he did a grand job in this effort.

OK, I admit it. When it comes to real country music, and those whom I believe truly appreciate it as the art form that it is, I am prejudiced. Never in a million years would I believe that some guy from New Hampshire, a writer and editor for the New York Times, of all the newspapers in the word, for crying out loud, would know much about the real thing; no way would someone with that background actually understand the music and those who created it. Well, that was before I read Sing Me Back Home, by Dana Jennings, who is exactly the guy I just described.

I want to apologize, Mr. Jennings, and I salute you, sir.

Sing Me Back Home is not a straight forward history of country music. Books like those serve their purpose, certainly, and there are many worthy ones out there already that take that approach. Jennings, on the other hand, turns the history of country music into something very personal: a way to share his own family story.

As most country music historians (and knowledgeable fans) agree, the years from the late forties to the very end of the sixties mark the period of classic country music. The music reached its peak during those years and has faced a steady, downhill slide since 1970 with the exception of a small (and poorly rewarded) group of pickers and singers that refuses to let classic country music completely disappear. But, overall, country music has probably never been in a sorrier state than it is in today. According to Jenkins, in fact, "It can be entertaining, but the difference between today's country and the summits of the 1950s and `60s is the difference between the lightning and the lighting bug."

As Jennings puts it, "country music was made by poor people for poor people." At its best, country music reflected, and maybe even justified, the lives endured by the rural poor who lived all around the United States, not just those from the South or the mountains and coal-producing regions of the Southeast. It is the history of working people, those who made livings with their hands, often at the sacrifice of their health or even their lives, during those two decades. Nothing for them came easy and, when they finally made it to Saturday night, they became walking, talking country songs themselves. They lived the cheating songs and the drinking songs; they spent time in prison, went hungry in the bad times, hit the road out of desperation or despair, had love affairs end badly, and repented on Sunday mornings with the full knowledge that they would backslide again come the very next Saturday night.

But what makes Sing Me Back Home so memorable is the way that Dana Jennings readily fits a member of his own family to every kind of classic country song there is. He lived it - and he remembers it because it made him the man that he is today despite the fact that he sits behind a desk at the New York Times. Song by song, the reader meets members of Jennings' family who could easily have been the inspirations for those same songs because, not only did these folks love and surround themselves with country music, they lived the lifestyle at its heart.

For those of us of a certain age, and of a certain upbringing, this book is like preaching to the choir. We already knew this deep down in our souls. But having someone as frank, and just as importantly, as articulate, as Dana Jennings come along to tell the real story of country music's golden age and how its listeners related to those songs, is a real bonus.

Sing Me Back Home fits longtime country music fans like an old glove. But the book is also a perfect primer for those newer fans who wonder about the country music legends that are barely more than names to them today. In fact, the discography at the end of the book is worth its whole $24 dollar cover price. Those willing to spend the money and time required to surround themselves with the albums and box sets listed by Jennings in that discography will learn more about the history of America's working class than they could ever learn from any textbook.

Despite what David Allan Coe says to the contrary, I do not believe in the perfect country music song. But there just might be a perfect country music book. If so, this is it.

The voice in Dana Jenning's SING ME BACK HOME is accessible, open, brave and candid. I couldn't put it down!

For anyone who thinks country music begins and ends with Kenny Chesney, here's your reality check. Part autobiography, part music appreciation course, the author gives the reader a lean, mean lesson in what country music -- in its Golden Age -- was all about. Far more than just twangy songs about drinking and cheating, the country music of those times and artists tied the music to the poorest, the marginalized, the most helpless of Americans. The prose is eloquent and evocative, yet sparse as a meal in the Depression. Also funny, biting, and wryly witty at times. The author reminds us, too, that country music didn't stem solely from, nor was it intended solely for the people of the rural south. Instead, artists like Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, Faron Young, the Louvin Brothers, Connie Smith, et al, were all people who came up from hardscrabble lives & times, and their music resonated with people everywhere who suffered from deprivation, whether the listeners lived in Kingston, New Hampshire, or Stollings, West Virginia. The music of our youth evokes the people, the pain, the loves, the losses, and the emotions of our youth. Like the author, I had turned away from country music during my youth, and when I returned to it later in life I found that there isn't any (almost none, anyway) country music anymore. No more fiddle, no more steel, no more twang. Honesty? Fuhgeddaboudit!

This book reminded me in so many ways of the music I love, but more than that, it brought back the people I loved most and who are no longer with me. Yeah, this book was a trip down memory lane for me, but it also felt like validation for the appreciation I've put into this kind of music. And it's a great tool for beginners who want to learn what the Golden Age of country music really sounded like, and where to begin listening.

A really Very enjoyable accounting that covers The Specials (and their Two-Tone label) from their early days in Coventry in the late 1970's to their early demise in the beginning of the 1980's. From "Gangsters" to "GhostTown", Horace relays his experiences and observations (some of the bands' dynamics and evolution, playing, recording and touring) with keen wit and the perspective of a person who was clearly a fan of the music (and music scene) first, who would soon become an integral part of an innovative and important band that was able to defy gravity for a little (too-short) while...

While I was never abig fan of the Specials, I was still enough interested to buy this book and I am glad I did. This is one of the better rock biographies to have appeared lately. It is very different from the usual drivel about how many groupies and how much drugs they have done which seems to be atrend in recent music books. The Specials were one of the most important groups back in the early 80's in Britain. The degree of coverage and adulation they got in the rock press was very irritating and which more explains why I did not like them. However this book is a very entertaining recount of it's authors years as the bassist of the band and it does provide quite some inetersting insights into the creation of music and touring which is usually not present in other books. Really recommended

A great book that charters the life and times of the Specials, probably one of the most influential bands of their time. No "I was there" No "I did this I did that" Just an honest straight forward account of what it was to be in the band through good times and bad.

Though the book is detailed it reads almost like a reflective diary which I suppose in a way it is. For anyone who loved the Specials then it will bring back some memories, for anyone who has just found them now or just loves to read biographies of bands or musicians this is definitely the book for you.

Excellent insider's look at The Specials & the 2-Tone movement. Very funny, and detailed view of how the band evolved, songs were written & recorded, & performed live. I especially enjoyed the U.S. Tour diary, and cool photos.

Ska fans should definitely check out Horace's book. It's full of great stories, many bits of humor, and some excellent reflections on the 2-Tone era and afterwards. I found the book to be honest and straight forward and I really enjoyed it.

Randy Thompson aka Ski had two options while growing up poor in Long Island New York, ball or be a baller. Randy had the skills neccessary to leave his hood behind and pursue his basketball dreams but sometimes even the most seemingly attainable goals can slip away. When's Randy's opportunity slipped away he still had to provide for his family and being a small time drug dealer just wasn't gonna cut it. Randy was gonna have to do things the Ski Mask Way and with his clique of childhood friends that wouldn't be hard at all.

From Long Island to upstate NY nowhere was safe from the wrath of Ski and his crew. Jewelry Stores, Drug Dealers and Department Stores all got touched but would Ski's clique remained untouched? Or would Ski find out that becoming a baller by amassing ill gotten wealth would be even harder than going to school to pursue his NBA career. Especially when you have to overcome more than just the police but jealousy within his own clique. Read the Ski-Mask Way and find out what's harder balling or becoming a baller!

Randy Thompson aka "Ski" comes out hitting hard with this debut novel.. "SKI MASK WAY". In this story Isaiah "Ski" Thompson is a young man who is destined for great things. As he goes off to college to play basketball things take a turn and leaves him out of school and trying to make money, the ski mask way. The Go-Hard Crew, consisting of his childhood friends, rob anything, no business and no person is safe from this crew, because they definitely go hard for theirs.

I have to be honest with you this book had me from the first page. My mouth literally dropped on some parts and I had to laugh at a few. Randy came out banging with this book, if you haven't copped this book I suggest that you do, because in my opinion this is THE BEST book that I have read in "2008". So he gets my vote for best new author and best book in "2008". Randy I will definitely support your future titles!

Although words can't be used to describe how truly HOT, this novel really is, I decided to pick a few of my favorite to give you an idea!

SPLENDID, SUPERB, SUPERIOR, WONDERFUL...and the characters were...VICIOUS, WICKED, FIERCE FEROCIOUS!!!

To say that I thorougly enjoyed this novel is an understatement. And the fact that it's based on a true story is CHILLING!

From the very begginging Randy pulled me into the pages of this novel and I felt like I was right beside Ski through his entire journey. Although some disloyal people surrounded themselves around Ski, (disguised as friends) I smiled when I realized that in the end REAL friendship prevails.

You are a fool if you call yourself a lover of "Street Fiction" and don't cop this book!

It's a MUST READ!!!

SKI MASK WAY tells the tale of a young man trying to forge a new life, a life of crime. Isaiah "Ski" Thompson's goal has always been to be a basketball player. With good grades and basketball skills it seemed as if he was on the fast track of doing just that. That is until tragedy strikes and what used to be important to Ski no longer is. Finally giving into peer pressure Ski chooses a new direction in life - drug dealing and stealing.

There is plenty in Randy Thompson's debut to sate the appetites of readers starved for a good read. The tone ranges from carefree and fun to murder and mayhem. Undoubtedly, readers will find themselves fully absorbed in SKI MASK WAY. Thompson's descriptions of the sights, sounds and emotions bring the story to life with all of its horrors and satisfactions. Job well done.

Intrigued, I look forward to SKI MASK WAY II.

Reviewed by: Tracy

Young Isaiah "Ski" Thompson eats, breathes and lives basketball. It's his ticket to happily ever after. Despites the hustling lifestyle of his friends around him, Ski is steadfast in his pursuit of the NBA. However, life-altering circumstances soon snap Ski wide awake from his hoop dreams and find him going hard on the streets instead of the court. Can he be MVP or will he foul out?

"Ski Mask Way" leaps from the pages with subplots and flashbacks, giving us Ski's adventures as a member of The Go-Hard Crew and his struggles with his hoop dreams versus his street reality.

Thompson proves deft in his delivery of drama, action, comedy and grit and grime. As much as this book centers on Ski, however, readers will be charmed and tickled by his colorful friends. They can tell jokes, turn on the charm and keep it gutter. I felt like I was riding shotgun in the get away car. And as wrong as they were, I found myself hoping they'd get away. Was so into the book I almost missed an editing issue - book temporarily flipped from first person to third. But even with that flaw, " Ski Mask Way " is an adrenaline and emotionally-fueled story, with strong elements all around that I recommend.

Readers will enjoy this well-told tale and leave many wondering: How much of Thompson's story might be closer to fact than fiction?

4.5 stars

I read this book before my first trip to Nashville and was miles ahead of others coming to town who had not read this masterpiece. It is by far the most thoroughly researched, informative, complete, concise guide to Nashville's music industry ever published, and should be on the best seller list. If you have ever considered a career as a songwriter or want to be a successful recording artist, you must read this book cover to cover. It's easy reading, packed with useful info, and written by a very nice, successful woman who lives in Nashville and knows the industry because she has worked in it her whole life.

This compact little book is a great read and full of great advice for songwriters and musicians looking to pursue opportunities in country music, specifically Nashville.

Ms. Bond is a music publisher and has worked in the Nashville arena for years. She gives examples on the Nashville number system (for reading/recording music), how to label your CD's and inserts and she gives the addresses and names of some of the best and more affordable recording studios in and around Music City. She also included the contact info for some of the top producers, publishers and A&R in country today! There's also a great section on all of the best open mic spots, restaurants and accommodations in and near Nashville.

In my opinion, this book is for someone that is seriously considering a career as a country musician/songwriter. And if that's you, then it's a great reference book to have in your arsenal.

This is a great book that fills a real need -- practical advice for anyone who aspires to be a songwriter or performer in Nashville. I work in the music industry in Nashville and am often asked for advice from songwriters new in town. I'm not necessarily qualified to give advice, so now I can recommend this book. One of the most interesting features is a chapter that suggests a week's itinerary, including where to eat lunch. Often people will come to town and not have any idea of what to do. They'll try to drop in on busy publishers, get turned away again and again and then go home thinking everyone on Music Row is unfriendly. Bond explains the right way to get your foot in the door. Again, highly recommended.

Sherry Bond's book is an absolute must for anyone who wishes to pursue a career as a songwriter or performer. Her book covers many areas other guide books leave out, such as the importance of networking and where to go to make contacts. For me, it gave me the confidence that I could go out and make a living as a songwriter. I recommend it for everyone interested in the music business as a whole - not just Country.

The fine art of songwriting and marketing it to a music business audience is covered in this title, which provides an examination of the Nashville music industry and how an aspiring songwriter or musician can get heard in the big city. Bond is a songwriter and music publisher who blends interviews with music professionals with details on record companies, producers, recording studios, and others. Chapters cover all the basics, from preparing a product to marketing and avoiding common errors.

I loved this book from the first page. It was very exciting to jump into the lives of others and experience what they all have been going through. I found it very interesting and hard to put down.

Well written, and very thought provoking. I enjoyed this book so much I read it twice!

Soul Survivor is a fantastic book for people of all faiths. The message is clear - there is something beyond this life. Soul Survivor is an easy read that anyone looking for inspiration can turn to when looking for answers to questions about the after life, but it's not just about the after life. It's tells an important story about how we should all live our lives.
I highly recommend Soul Survivor.

This well-written book was extremely thought provoking to me, as a reader who is sceptical of this type of thought process. It definitely had me thinking, and believing!!!

From an average believer of near or post-death experiences, it is a well-written book that provides enlightening approach to reaching one's destiny. If the intent of the book is to give insight, hope and courage to some people in the world I can assure you that it certainly did it's trick (at least with me). It definitely gets the message across. Thanks for the re-awakening and for the reminder to stay course in life despite how bad situations can be...