Synopses & Reviews
The iconic rock star’s New York Times bestselling follow-up to Waging Heavy Peace that “reads like a great Neil Young song plays.” (The Buffalo News)
In this acclaimed new memoir, New York Times
bestselling author Neil Young has fashioned another extraordinary work
of reminiscences told through the lens of one of his deepest passions:
cars. A lifelong devotee and collector, Young explores his love for the
well-crafted vintage automobile and examines his newfound awareness of
his hobby’s negative environmental impact. Witty, eclectic, candid, and
filled with Young’s original artwork, Special Deluxe will appeal to car
lovers as well as the legions devoted to one of the most genuine and
enigmatic artists of our time.
Review
“Just as his autobiography took readers by surprise with its rambling
candor, the sequel will appeal not just to gearheads and classic rock
fans but anyone who can appreciate a true maverick.” San Francisco Chronicle
Review
“Young’s new book is structured around recollections of the various
cars he has driven over the years, a literary device that elicited more
emotionally charged memories and prose than anything in his previous
memoir. He writes evocatively about rough childhood moments (he once saw
his father slap his mom during an argument, then retreated into the
basement to play with his electric trains) and adult triumphs (he
composed what ended up being Ragged Glory in an empty car barn on his
ranch, sitting by himself for days on end with a joint, his guitar and
his amp).” Rolling Stone
Review
“Young returns to reflect on the two defining love affairs of his life:
cars and dogs…. The plaintive and straightforward approach to Young’s
remembrances evokes a kindly paternalism as he candidly recounts details
of his experiences forging his musical ambition in Canadian clubs, the
hippie scene in Los Angeles, his later solo career and the innumerable
rides that took him there…Both heartfelt and conflicted, Young’s passion
for cars is tempered by his environmental conviction, a prescient
reminder that the Earth is more important than a hobby.” Kirkus Reviews
About the Author
NEIL YOUNG’s music and songwriting — which span forty years and
thirty-four studio albums of rock and roll, folk, and country, with
shadings of blues, techno, and other styles — are among the most enduring
and popular in modern times. From his early days with Buffalo
Springfield through his solo career and collaborations with Crosby,
Stills & Nash, Crazy Horse, and dozens of other notable musicians
and groups, Young is acclaimed for both his musical talents and his
artistic integrity. With a major hit in every decade since the sixties,
he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice. A well-known
political activist, environmentalist, and philanthropist, Young has been
involved in several causes, notably cofounding Farm Aid and the Bridge
School, which assists children with physical impairments and
communication needs.