The Story of Rock ""N"" Roll

The disc jockey and author (The Rock Music Source Book and Radio in the Television Age surveys the 30-odd-years history of rock music, touching on every influential act in the field (with the perhaps puzzling exception of the Talking Heads), though he relegates the pre-'50s roots of rock to a few passing remarks. This otherwise undistinguished review is set apart by Fornatale's involvement in the field, treating the reader to anecdotes, concert memories and quotes from his interviews with the stars. There is a welcome emphasis on the significance of Motown and soul music, and some thoughtful discussion of the role played by FM radio and other media in the dissemination of the sound. Although Fornatale tends to be too uncritical, his writing style is lively and quite readable. (Photos not seen by PW.) Ages 10-up. (April)