Dylan biography - any recommendations?

Posted by: Robert Derwae on 04 June 2002

I'm interested in reading about Bob Dylan and I need advice. What is (are) the best book(s) about Dylan? For what it's worth, I value good, compelling writing above exhaustiveness.

As far as I can tell from doing some research on Amazon, the candidates are:

1. No Direction Home: The Life and Music of Bob Dylan, by Shelton.
2. Positively 4th Street: The Lives and Times of Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, Mimi Baez Farina, and Richard Farina, by Hajdu.
3. Bob Dylan: Behind the Shades, by Heylin.
4. Bob Dylan Performing Artist 1960-1973: The Early Years, by Williams.

Any Dylan fans here who can give me a shove in the right direction?

[This message was edited by Robert Derwae on WEDNESDAY 05 June 2002 at 02:02.]

Posted on: 05 June 2002 by Former member

I've read "Down the Highway" & can thoroughly recommend it. A fascinating, compelling read about one of musics true geniuses.

Posted on: 05 June 2002 by Chris Metcalfe

I thought the Anthony Scaduto book from many years ago was very good. I'd be surprised if you couldn't find a copy.

Posted on: 17 June 2002 by Former member

Although it's a few years ago since I read it, I seem to remember 'Behind The Shades' was pretty interesting, as long as you are very familiar with his music. There's also a lot of drivel around as well so it might be worth visiting a library first.

Posted on: 18 June 2002 by Former member

I found that robert sheltons book is the most incise and questioning and really goes to town on putting the songs into a chronological landscape he was/is a good friend of dylans. the only possible criticism is it is not entirely up to date but dont let that phase you. I would definately recommend this book as a start.