Thanks a Lot Mr Kibblewhite by Roger Daltrey
Allen & Unwin, $24.99
When he was 15, Roger Daltrey was permanently expelled from grammar school by his headmaster Mr Kibblewhite and told he would never amount to anything. Life as a labourer beckoned, but fortunately Daltrey had a passion for music that would see him rise to the top of the rock music scene. The Who became one of the biggest and most influential rock groups on the planet. Drugs, fights and wrecked hotel rooms often defined The Who, but so did great music and concerts and some of the best songs ever written. Daltrey’s smoothly written autobiography provides a candid look at the band and the British music revolution.
Roadies by Stuart Coupe
Hachette, $32.99
Stuart Coupe has long been one of Australia’s most entertaining rock journalists and his lengthy relationship with all aspects of rock and roll, including as a promoter, gives him a unique insight into the business. His latest book focuses on the unsung heroes of the Australian music industry, the roadies. They set it up, take it down and drive all night to the next location. From back of stage they see all the excesses, overdoses and crazy fans and now their stories have been captured in this highly entertaining book. Engaging, funny and insightful, it will make for a great Christmas present.
The Jamestown Brides by Jennifer Potter
Atlantic, $39.99
In 1621, 56 English women, ‘young and uncorrupt’, sailed to Virginia in America to become wives for the new colony’s tobacco planters. The women travelled of her own accord, but the Virginia Company made a profit on the deal by selling them to the men for the bride price of 150 pounds of tobacco each. In addition to the profit they made, the Company also hoped the brides would settle the men down and tie them to the land. Drawing on a range of original sources, Potter gives voice to these forgotten women and illuminates an often-overlooked corner of history. Fascinating reading!
-Jeff Popple
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