The Beatles (Illustrated and Updated Edition)
by Hunter Davies
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Book Summary Information
Author: Hunter DaviesEdition: Paperback
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 2006-04-17
ISBN: 0393328864
Number of pages: 416
Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
Book Reviews of The Beatles (Illustrated and Updated Edition)
Book Review: The classic first intimate biography of the Beatles
Summary: 5 Stars
Ah, I remember first reading this classic biography in the early 1980's, and reading it over and over again. I was a pre-teen and had just become a Beatles freak - - I'd thought I found the holy grail. It didn't occur to me until much later that this was an authorized biography, written from a fan's perspective. As such, looking back on it, it succeeds. Hunter Davies was there with the Beatles, knew McCartney fairly well and hung out with all of them for a time. He could've really written a major work had he waited till after the break up, but chose to get it out quickly and after approval from the Beatles. It is very intimate and light, the structure allows for a breezy and anecdotal approach. The Beatles really talk to the public of 1968 in a serious and intimate way that they hadn't done in their many press conferences. Emphasis apparently on early years, their rise as Davies puts it, and on the magazine style profiles of each Beatle (to 1968). The chapter on George Harrison is surprisingly thorough on his new found religious beliefs. It does include an update for the break up and decades following, but this adds little. (besides, Peter Brown's more gossipy "Love You Make" handles that period better)
It's rather weak on the incredible development of the Beatles music from LP to LP, and devotes one brief chapter on it - - actually, that he was present at a couple of John and Paul's songwriting sessions is a plus. Otherwise, Davies is rather hopeless in giving readers insight on this vital area of Beatles. But to be fair very few have succeeded in discussing the Beatles music anyway. (OK, I'll give a nod to Mellers, Schafner and McDonald)
I also like the photos in this book, as they complement the introductory nature of the text very well, especally as done in this "illustrated" edition.
Overall, I still consider this a great book (hence the 5 stars), a nostalgic favorite of mine - - the 2nd book I'd ever read on the Beatles (Miles' "Beatles In Their Own Words" was 1st), when I was hungry like a pig for more. I recommend this to be the first book new fans read if they're seriously interested in the history of the great Beatles. This will do!
Summary of The Beatles (Illustrated and Updated Edition)
The worldwide bestseller that defines the band that defined an era?now updated and with 135 photographs and illustrations.
In this behind-the-scenes look at the most famous musical group in history, Hunter Davies gives the complete story of the Beatles. As the only authorized biographer, Davies had full access to the group, as well as their help and encouragement. He spent eighteen months with them when they were at the peak of their musical genius and at the pinnacle of their popularity, and he remained friends with each of the members as they went their separate ways.This updated edition addresses the changes in the lives of the Beatles: Paul's marriage, George's death, and their new books and records. 135 photographs and illustrations
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