Customer Reviews

Picks! (Book)

5 star:		(6)
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If you want to have a good time reading about one of the most overlooked essentials of good guitar-picking, read this book. Hoover's style is direct, yet whimsical; his information is authoritative and far-reaching. I intend to write a followup review once I've had a chance to digest and reflect upon this small gem, but, as a guitar plunker (as distinguished from picker) of small talent and great enthusiasm, I wanted to add my applause to the nice things already said about Hoover's accomplishment by Chet Atkins and B.B. King.

As the founder of PickNET (a free online global trading network for pick collectors) one might surmise that I'd know a few things about picks, yet I have to bow my head to pickmaster Will Hoover for writing such an informative and fun history of picks and teaching me a lot that I didn't know. The author clearly did his homework and has the knowledge and a deep appreciation for his subject matter. If I had to say one negative thing about this book, my complaint would be that it was too short. The great details and photos of vintage, promo, and celebrity picks just left me wanting more. A great read for the serious guitar pick devotee as well as for the casual music fans who want to know more about these seemingly mundane musical accessories. PICK up a copy asap! (Sorry but I couldn't resist at least one plectral pun.) Well done Mr. Hoover....Well done indeed!

This is a superb introduction to the subject of the history of the plectrum/pick/pic. Not many people think about the pick as anything but a piece of plastic but in truth it is the unseen connection between the instrument and the musician. It can be made from many materials and has a fascinating history. This book is perfect for the new collector.

Its funny but true: when you happen on a pick shape and material you like, you tend to make sure you dont run out of them anytime soon. And so it goes. This fun little book will have many happy months of bathroom reading (!) after I've gone through it a few times first. Well written, in a style that does not take itself too seriously but is also not mindless or silly. Get it! Its cool.

Cool little book. Great photos. Fastinating history. This is book would make a fun gift for a guitar playing friend or family member.

This book will be a Christmas present for our teenaged, great-nephew, guitar player. I am certain he will love it.