Tim Brookes Libri

How did a small, humble folk instrument become an American icon? How did the guitar come to represent freedom, the open road, protest and rebellion, the blues, youth, lost love, and sexuality? In this intensely personal memoir and informative history, National Public Radio commentator and essayist Tim Brookes recounts his quest to build the perfect guitar. Pairing up with a master artisan from the Green Mountains of Vermont, Brookes sees how a rare piece of cherry wood is hued, dovetailed, and worked on with saws, rasps, and files. As his prized instrument takes shape, Brookes also narrates the long and winding history of the guitar in the United States. Arriving with conquistadors and the colonists, the guitar has found itself in an extraordinary variety of hands: miners and society ladies, lumberjacks and presidents’ wives. In time, the guitar became America’s vehicle of self-expression, its modern soundtrack. Guitar is a rare glimpse of one man’s search for music. It is sure to resonate with musicians and non-musicians alike.

The narrative explores the author's transition from urban life to rural living in Vermont, highlighting the myriad challenges faced, particularly with a steep gravel driveway that symbolizes the connection between home and the outside world. Through humorous and relatable anecdotes, the author reflects on the trials of adapting to country life, revealing both the beauty and frustrations of rural existence. This collection ultimately serves as a celebration of the countryside while simultaneously critiquing its demands, suggesting that even great thinkers like Thoreau might reconsider their choices in such a setting.

Focusing on endangered writing systems, this book delves into the rich histories and cultural significance behind these unique forms of expression. It highlights the stories of the communities that utilize these scripts, emphasizing the urgent need for preservation as they face extinction. Through a global lens, readers will gain insight into the diverse languages and traditions at risk, fostering a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of language and culture.