A great
rock-and-roll story is a magnet, and the Beach Boys story
has one of the strongest pulls of all. Author Jon Stebbins
has been producing literary and televised Beach Boys
productions for years, and now Backbeat Books’ newest FAQ
title puts his mammoth knowledge of Beach Boys history and
obscure lore into one entertaining, fast-paced tome. So pull
up a chair or catch a wave—it’s time for fun, fun, fun in
the summertime.
The Beach Boys FAQ: All That’s Left to Know About
America’s Band (Backbeat Books, $19.99) dives down deep
into the legend. Great for casual fans, Stebbins discusses
the album Pet Sounds, Brian Wilson’s reclusiveness, TV
appearances, and solo careers. But, this book will also take
readers beyond the shoreline: Why are they considered the
American Beatles? What was the truth behind Murray Wilson,
Showbiz-Dad? How did the band affect global warming?
The Beach Boys FAQ covers everything from the
stories—like the time Al Jardine went out to learn to surf
with Dennis Wilson, but was disgusted to learn they were
surfing exactly where LA’s sewage was emptying into the
South Bay—to stats and lists such as instruments, addresses,
song charts, and which boys sang which songs. With access to
the Beach Boys, their families, friends, and collaborators,
Jon Stebbins has created the ultimate Beach Boys guide in a
format that allows readers to choose to dip in a toe or
plunge in headfirst.