A beautiful picture book on the cinematic legacy of Frank Sinatra – one that's full of color images, movie stills, and lots lots more – with just a bit of supporting text from the author, as well as family members Nancy Sinatra and Frank Sinatra Jr! The main appeal of the book is its look – as it's done as a horizontal rectangle, kind of a large postcard-shape style – with heavy glossy pages that offer up images of movie posters, publicity shots, and other great photos – all interspersed with a bit of text throughout. We love Sinatra on film every bit as much as we love him on record – and the book is a great visual addition to any record collection of his music. 147 pages, softcover, full color. Book

Bob Stanley's turned us on to plenty of great music over the years – via countless compilations on Ace Records, Cherry Red, and other labels – but this time around, he's going way way back – to look at the American scene in the early part of the 20th Century! Stanley argues that stardom in music existed way before rock and roll – and looks first at the creation of the 78rpm record, then sounds from artists who include Bessie Smith, Louis Armstrong, Frank Sinatra, and Duke Ellington – next to some lesser-known artists, key songwriters, and other forces shaping the cultural scene at the time. Stanley really moves around a lot – even touching on hillbilly music, Broadway, and films as well – all with a dexterity and love of the music that almost rivals Nick Tosches in similar territory. Hardcover edition has some black and white images, and is 636 pages in length. Book