Author: Michael Azerrad

Genre: Non Fiction, Biography, Music, Punk Rock

Summary: A biography on Nirvana based on Michael's interviews with the members of Nirvana, family and friends. Basically the only authorised biography before the lead singer committed suicide.

Thoughts: I read this book awhile ago and only got round to writing a review. It's Basically the most reputable biography on Kurt Cobain before he died. Michael basically interviewed Kurt, Dave and Krist, as well as close family and friends of Kurt growing up as well as after his success. It was very interesting learning about Kurt's life growing up and how he was. I feel like he has been sanctified by people in this current time, but after reading the biography, you find that *unsurprising* he was human, and had just as many problems in his life, if not, more than most people.

There was this one instance growing up where Michael interviewed Kurt's father and asks whether or not he beat Kurt, and it seems that he had not recollection of ever abusing Kurt despite the fact that Kurt said his dad was abusive, as well as the fact that his mother once saw his dad throw Kurt across the room one time.

I found it interesting how even Kurt himself says that even though everyone says he is a nice guy and could do no wrong, admits that he would have no problem beating the shit out of people if they get on his bad side. He even tells of a story about smacking someone over the head with a 2x4 when that someone was basically harassing him at a party. He was the type that would keep things to himself until that ONE thing that would tip him over the edge.

I also found that Courtney has been vilified way too much in the media. Like Kurt gets a hard pass at things that Courtney would get criticised for. I remember an interview Courtney did where she basically said "I love him but he definitely wasn't a saint", and honestly after reading this book, I can understand why. I feel like even though Kurt seemed like such an interesting person to be around, I feel like at times he could seem a bit draining to be around, it really takes a certain someone to be with him.

While this biography was definitely interesting, at times it could be a bit slow and boring

Overall- 8/10

Reread- Yes

Recommend- Yes