Led Zeppelin

* Reviews *

Enter the word of Led Zeppelin, the legendary rock band of the late 1960s, in this gripping biography. Written for an adolescent audience, the self-described rockography introduces each member of Led Zeppelin, revealing, for most of the members, very humble roots. Front man Robert Plants civil engineer father desired a more respectable career than music for his son. Guitarist Jimmy Page had a passion for art, but his parents also objected. Drummer John Bonham quit school at age sixteen to build houses with his father, working construction during the day and playing gigs at night. Only bassist John Paul Jones hailed from musical parents who supported his desire to play. Each of these young men played in other bands before coming together as Led Zeppelin. Michael A. Schuman illustrates the tumultuous time period of the bands birth, the late 1960s, in a manner that is appropriate for an adolescent audience. Though he in no way sugarcoats the Vietnam War Era, the level of detail in which he describes Led Zeppelins eventual downfall, via drug and alcohol abuse, is concise and age-appropriate. Most interesting is the time periods music critics unanimous disdain for Led Zeppelin, especially noting that they are now one of the most celebrated rock bands of all time. As Schuman concludes, the world was not ready for Led Zeppelins music at the time in which they were recording it. The four members provided a unique, diverse collaboration of musical styles and influences; Led Zeppelin was a hit with fans but not with critics. This biography has the power to inspire a young generation of new listeners., Children's Literature