Sinatra's Century

Selective, idiosyncratic and short. Some of the observations are familiar, but the best make fresh comparisons and connections. And Lehman is strong on the way Sinatra's music continues to wend its way through the culture. -- New York Times Book Review Mr. Lehman holds the reader by ferreting out of the voluminous files lots of choice quotes and anecdotes that reanimate Sinatra's gamy lost world. -- Wall Street Journal Lehman, an established poet, widens the frame of reference, thereby expanding the emotional resonance of the songs...Lehman tells us what those facts mean. -- Washington Post David Lehman gives us a more nuanced study --Sinatra's Century. The book hits all the highlights --and dim days-- of Sinatra's career, starting with his days as a big-band singer who blossomed into an idol for teenage girls. Let this book cast its spell. -- St. Louis Post-Dispatch The book is the literary equivalent of a late-night session among Sinatra devotees sharing their favorite recordings over drinks, calling attention to the finer nuances of beloved tracks. Even an old Sinatra fan like me learned new things from Lehman. -- BookForum Threaded through David Lehman's 100 notes are captivating observations, histories, insights and reflections likely to serve as interesting dinner party conversations. -- Beverly Hills Courrier A poet and critic by trade, Lehman has composed a paean that devotes as much space to Sinatra's personality as to his singing...Well-written and unfailingly pleasing to read. -- Commentary I would particularly recommend Sinatra's Century, a wonderful new book by the poet, editor, and essayist David Lehman. The book is at once short, fun to dip in and out of, full of quirky yet thoughtful lists of best albums and songs, with a poet's appreciation of Sinatra's craft. -- Yahoo TV