Synopsis
"The most absorbing, wide-ranging and stimulating body of writing about the mighty Bob that's ever been assembled."—Salman Rushdie
Library Journal
While His Bobness finishes his long-delayed autobiography, fans have these two anthologies to tide them over. Hedin, a freelance writer, fills Studio A with some of the best-known writings about Dylan, including articles, interviews, poems, and miscellaneous pieces from such high-profile figures as Johnny Cash, Nat Hentoff, Hunter S. Thompson, Sam Shepard, Cameron Crowe, Joyce Carol Oates, and Bruce Springsteen. Although excerpts from Rolling Stone and former patron/lover Joan Baez's memoir are not included, this makes for a pretty decent Dylan biography. The sheer star power of represented authors is testament to Dylan's standing as one of the most important artistic figures of the past century. Updated since its original 2001 release, Isis is a sort of boxed set to Studio A's greatest hits that delves even deeper into Dylan's life and lore. Leading off with its coup de grace-a rare and lengthy interview with Dylan's parents conducted by biographer Robert Shelton in 1968-it includes in-depth articles and interviews that, until now, have received limited distribution (Isis is a longtime Dylan fanzine). Beware, however, the rather sloppy editing, indicative of a more homegrown operation. A treasure trove of Dylanology, this anthology is likely to have limited appeal; recommended for larger pop music collections.-Lloyd Jansen, Stockton-San Joaquin Cty. P.L., CA Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.