Whilst browsing in Waterstones last december, I came across this book. Recently published, Gould pulls together cultural history of the 60's, musical analysis and of course The Beatles story. Although I've only made a small dent in the book (606 pages!) it's fascinating explanation of Liverpool and the Scouse traditions, Teddy Boy origins and Northern Chic have already gripped me. Well worth a look up.

Maybe if your lucky you could compliment the man himself. He joined this forum a few months back.

I loved this too, Indica. Best book on the Beatles I've read. I put a nice review of it somewhere else on this sight-- under the "currently reading" thread? (I have no memory...)

Quoted from harihead

I loved this too, Indica. Best book on the Beatles I've read. I put a nice review of it somewhere else on this sight-- under the "currently reading" thread? (I have no memory...)

Correct. Here and further: http://www.dmbeatles.com/forums/b-books/m-1169261662/s-120/#num134

Dear Indica,

Thank you for the kind words about "Can't Buy Me Love."  It feels wonderful to know that people are reading the book, enjoying the book, arguing about the book, and generally paying attention to the book.  I don't have much experience with forums like this - I'm a bit of an internet geezer - but I'll check in periodically and mke myself known.  

And Harihead, thanks again for your lovely review...

All best wishes,

Jonathan Gould

Hey, Jonathan! Great to see you again.

I've been reccing your book all over the internet, on various blogs and Beatles forums, wherever they want to know the "best" Beatles book to start with. In fact, I just did that again this morning-- recced you and Hunter Davies. So if you get one more sale today, I did it. *preens*

One of the things that I really appreciated is that you in fact read almost everything else (within reason) first. I'm a huge reader, and the contradictory stories are really fascinating. I try to rely on the source as much as I can, while knowing that the Beatles (like all other mortals) have amazingly faulty memories. But you make a good run at acknowledging the difficulties of working out an honest history at this late date, which I think is the best way to approach it. Cheers!


Edited to add:
Just saw this posted on the other blog:

"Harihead gave some excellent titles. These are all essential IMO. ... Gould's book, 'Can't Buy Me Love', is one I'm reading now, and I can't recommend it enough. It's so well written and intelligent. If you read any Beatles bio., it's the only one you need to read"

When will it be available on paperback?