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This thread is for general discussions and recommendations for biographies and autobiographies. My own primary concern at the moment is focused on people who are alive today, and/or lived through the 1960s - 1990s. Recommendations for some good books to read would be appreciated, as well as any interesting insights or stories you happen to recall from books you've read. Thanks.
Do you want to pin it down a little in terms of subject? I don't often read bios of contemporary people, and the only one I can think of offhand was DV by Diana Vreeland, but that's not everyone's cup of tea.
Do you want to pin it down a little in terms of subject? I don't often read bios of contemporary people, and the only one I can think of offhand was DV by Diana Vreeland, but that's not everyone's cup of tea.
I'd prefer not to narrow the thread down. I'd rather be surprised by ideas I hadn't thought of. For example: I had never heard of Diana Vreeland. I took a quick look at the Wiki page about her. I don't follow fashion, and I don't know if I will read her autobiography, but I'm considering it, thanks to you. What did you get from reading it? Anything you might be willing to share?
BTW: I'm writing a novel set in the time period from 1970s thru the near future. I'm basically interested in learning about influences on recent history that are not widely known or discussed in run-of-the-mill history classes. Small interesting details that help add depth to the unfolding of history, and bring to light multiple perspectives. I'll worry about focusing later. For right now I'm accepting inspiration from all realms of life.
Also: The thread does not have to be limited to just my current interests in modern recent history. If people want to chip in ideas from other periods of history, I won't object.
I assume you are referring to the trilogy by Eliezer Wiesel. I went to hear him speak at Kent State about a year ago. I have not yet read any of his books.
Thanks for the suggestions. The central character in my novel will be a rock musician, so these would probably be of interest to me. So far, for musicians, I've read biographies about Janis Joplin, Bob Dylan, Madonna, Jim Morrison, and Sam Cutler (tour manager for Rolling Stones, Grateful Dead, etc.). The book by Nancy Williams also looks interesting. It sounds like its well-written and captures the feel of the era - which is one of the goals of my current project.
BTW: If any of you have some autobiographical stories from your own life that you've got stuffed away in a drawer, I'd be happy to read some sample paragraphs, if you're willing to share.
So far, for musicians, I've read biographies about Janis Joplin, Bob Dylan, Madonna, Jim Morrison, and Sam Cutler (tour manager for Rolling Stones, Grateful Dead, etc.).
Don't forget Led Zeppelin!
Stairway to Heaven by Richard Cole (The band's tour manager for about 10 years)
Hammer of the Gods by Stephen Davis
Thanks for the suggestions. The central character in my novel will be a rock musician, so these would probably be of interest to me. So far, for musicians, I've read biographies about Janis Joplin, Bob Dylan, Madonna, Jim Morrison, and Sam Cutler (tour manager for Rolling Stones, Grateful Dead, etc.). The book by Nancy Williams also looks interesting. It sounds like its well-written and captures the feel of the era - which is one of the goals of my current project.
You are most welcome and I hope you enjoy "If You Rember Metal Skates" as much as I did,it certainly took me back.
Good luck with your book.
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