Book #11: Love is a Mix Tape

The book: Love is a Mix Tape, by Rob Sheffield

What is this book about: It is a memoir of Rob's marriage at a young age, and also of his wife's untimely death, remembered through the music that was playing at the time.

Why did I read this book: Because whenever you see a Rob Sheffield piece in Rolling Stone, you know it's going to be funny and clever. Also, the title is wonderful.

What did I think of this book: This was a beautiful and heartbreaking book. There are some moments that are typical of Sheffield's writing in Rolling Stone--very fun. And then there are some moments that capture so clearly the misery of life that I just wanted to crawl into bed and stay there forever. But it's ultimately uplifting, and a story of acceptance. It also makes you want to make mixes for everyone you know. I only wish the book was a little longer and that you could get an even bigger sense of Renee (Rob's wife, who dies after 5 years of marriage).

What was my favorite part of this book: Two very interesting chapters---one about the death of Kurt Cobain, where Sheffield describes that the true importance of Kurt Cobain for him was just to hear another young, 25ish guy, singing about what it was like to be married. Another was about Sheffield's obsession with Jackie Kennedy (this relates to the music theme because he found an old record that had a tribute to Jackie's courage in the face of losing her husband). Rob studied Jackie to try to learn how be widowed, and took solace in the fact that basically she was a complete mess as well.

What did I learn from this book: That behind one of my favorite snarky and sarcastic writers is a moving story of sorrow.

What grade do I give this book: A