With an introduction by Kevin Cronin, this autobiography tells Jim Peterik’s story. I’m sure many know him for his work with Survivor (a band that was originally called “The Jim Peterik band”). That’s certainly a high point in the man’s career, but he’s done a lot more. This book details his life growing up in the Chicago area, playing in the Chicago music scene and more. From The Ides of March to working as a songwriter and singing jingles, Peterik has had an interesting career. Yet, he seems grounded, in so many ways. He’s just “one of the guys,” it seems. I’d say that to me the book has a tendency to include too much, feeling like the kitchen sink was thrown in along with the plumbing. Also, I think that Peterik (admirably so) tried to include credit and name checks to as many people as possible. The thing is, to me it feels a bit like name dropping. The funny thing, though, is that the name dropping is often so inside to the Chicago music scene that it left me lost. It’s not like he’s trying to get some kind of credibility out of it, but it’s easy to get lost in all the names. Beyond that, the book reads well. It’s highly recommended for fans of Peterik and Survivor. I’d also definitely recommend it to people who were involved in that music scene. Less hardcore fans and those not involved in the scene will still find plenty to enjoy, but it won’t be a total win.

This review is available in book format (hardcover and paperback) in Music Street Journal: 2014  Volume 6 at lulu.com/strangesound.