Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)The Rolling Stones are one of the most studied and documented rock-n-roll bands in the world, second only to the Beatles. So I was a bit skeptical when I saw Bill German's book, wondering if there was anything left to write about Mick an' the Boys that hasn't already seen the light of day.
In truth, there are no earth-shaking revelations in German's book -- and that's just fine. Rolling Stones fans will still enjoy this fine account of a young super fan who -- through hard work and dedication -- found himself on the fringes of the Stones' inner circle -- close enough to smell the sulfur (literally, in one case).
And that's where the considerable charm in this book lies: Long-held beliefs about the Stones are confirmed: Mick is "a great bunch of guys." Keith is the cooly unflappable older brother we all wish we had. Ronnie seriously needs ADD medication, Bill is courtly and slightly above it all and Charlie is painfully introverted. And, as Ian Stuart points out to German, they're all at least a little bit crazy due to the insane lives they lead.
Serious Stones fans won't find much here about the creative process or inner workings of the band itself. But they will catch of glimpse of what life is like at the eye of the 40-year old storm that is the Rolling Stones. Ultimately, this book is Bill German's story -- but it's a great addition to any collection of works on the Rollilng Stones and adds a nice piece to the puzzle that is the world's greatest Rock-n-Roll band.
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