I picked up the Grout book at a GW a few years ago, along with a jazz book, The Jazz Book by Berendt. Any thoughts on it? I still haven't had the time to read either of them. Having a kid will do that.
Speaking of which, I can recommend a couple of "easier" reads. Books with short chapters, lots of pictures, etc.
I was given the book that went along with the American Roots Music series when it was on PBS. I finally got around to reading it, and I really enjoyed it. I know my blues, but when I got the book I didn't have much appreciation for most of the other genres that are "roots". It connected a lot of dots, for me.
I still haven't seen the series, so I'm curious if the DVDs are worth a purchase.
The Bob Marley book Songs Of Freedom was another one in the easy read category.
I was given a used copy of The Illustrated Story Of Jazz. I haven't read it yet, but thumbing through it makes me think I could potentially put it in the category as the two above.
I can also recommend the book about the making of A Love Supreme, the Muddy Waters bio Can't Be Satisfied, the Howlin' Wolf one that came out at about the same time(forget the title), and Chasin' The Trane.
I'm no classical expert, but I picked up the book that goes along with the Beethoven Bicentennial LP collection, and I like it a lot.
Speaking of GNR, did Izzy ever put out a book?