Eight (mostly) recent books you’ll probably want to read.

“Love Is A Mix Tape” – Rob Sheffield
The Rolling Stone editor grapples with the sudden death of his wife via his love of mix tapes. At long last, the correlation between heart and Heart.

“American Hair Metal” – Steven Blush
From Black ‘N Blue to Motley Crue, this coffee table book has more spandex, chest hair and eyeliner than you can shake a Kix at.

“What Is the What” – Dave Eggers
A novel written as the biography of Valentino Achak Deng, a Sudanese refugee — a so-called “lost boy” relocated to Ethiopia, Kenya and eventually the United States. Heartbreaking, tragic and moving.

“Chuck Klosterman IV” – Chuck Klosterman
Sure Klosterman is over-hyped, but he’s still enjoyable. And even though most of this stuff has previously appeared elsewhere, he gets bonus points for the great title.

“King Dork” – Frank Portman
The Mr. T Experience frontman transitions gracefully into his career as a novelist with this tale of junior high, rock and roll, and “The Catcher in the Rye.”

“S.T.P.: A Journey Through America with The Rolling Stones” – Robert Greenfield
The Stones’ 1976 U.S tour was legendary, as is this book, the first ever full-length tome about a rock tour. The band developed the theory that excess is best, be it drugs, Playmates, money — or maybe all three at once.

“Which Brings Me to You” – Steve Almond and Julianna Baggott
Boy meets girl at wedding. Boy and girl makeout in coatroom. Boy and girl part ways and write each other letters.

“One Train Later” – Andy Summers
Just in time for the Police reunion tour, find out whether Sting really is that egomaniacal prick you’re hoping he is.

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