Book Reviews

This deep dive into the history and songwriting prowess of The Rolling Stones is obviously manna for fans of Mick, Keith and company—zealots always happy to pounce on the latest revelation about their fave band of geriatrics. But just-casual Stones fans and rock history hobbyists will find plenty to love in this tome as well, thanks to the skills of author Bill Janovitz. The lead singer and main songwriter behind Boston’s Buffalo Tom turns his chapters—each tackling a different tune from the Stones’ five decades of recording—into a lesson on the Stones’ mythology at that point in their history, as well as funny and emotional personal essays. At times, his geek-outs on musical technicalities left me feeling a little left out of the fun as a non-musician, but his enthusiasm as a fan and his knowledge of Mick Jagger’s various romantic dalliances, Keith Richards’ dossier of drug experiences and the like make Rocks Off an easy, fun read. He even manages to make a case for some of the band’s more recent tunes being worthy of the Stones’ legacy as rock’s first dangerous band, so clearly, the man has convincing skills as an author. –Dan Nailen

By interpreting the realms of our bodies and how they interact with the environment around us, Saltfront explores—through a variety of voices—what it means to be human on a planet that is rapidly shifting. The strong ties to Utah are what make this collection unique: The writers are connected as a group of students, teachers and alumni of the University of Utah, mostly through the Environmental Humanities program. Readers may already be familiar with author Terry Tempest Williams—whose story balances reverence with sorrow—but will be rewarded by a group of new and local voices that will change the way you interpret the local topography. I look forward to future issues as authors and artists are given a platform on which they share deep meditations on their multifaceted views of life, rooted in places you’ll find not far beyond the cityscape. Find them online at saltfront.org, where you can purchase a hard copy for $12 or download an ebook for $3. Open call for submissions is Nov. 15 – Feb. 15, if you have an image or text that you think is worth sharing. –Brinley Froelich

In a state saturated with religious morals, quick judgments are often passed on people who fall outside of the norm, with women often bearing the brunt. In SL,UT, local author Alison Lee highlights three women who often face a crowd of people—whether it be their lovers, family, friends or acquaintances—who try to undermine their open sexuality. Instead of putting up with this, the protagonists look for support within themselves and their networks of friends. They find strength in situations that can be difficult, or turn other situations into seductions. I recommend popping your SL,UT cherry and have fun reading this romance novel rich with references to places you know and situations you’re probably familiar with, whether it be from personal or vicarious experience. –Brinley Froelich