Book is rather slow and not what I expected. I thought it would focus more on the exploits of the band (you know... sex, drugs and rock and roll). There is an awful lot of technical talk on how he plays different songs. I am into music, but do not play the guitar so I was lost during these references. It was OK. If you are a Stones or Richards fan, read it.

If you have ever been a Stones fan you will enjoy the epic tales of survival and triumph. Keef is a pirate, an outlaw, an anti hero and an endearing and enduring figure. Finishing the book was sad because the crazy tales were coming to an end, it was like saying goodbye to a legendary friend. This book will urge you to break out the old albums and start your on Stones Revival. Thanks Keef!

Who else could glamorize death?

This man is really funny, I laughed alot. Also he comes across as a nice guy who cares about other people. The insight into guitars and the playing thereof was interesting. I also enjoyed the walk down memory lane to the 60's. Just as an aside and not related specifically to this book, I note that none of the Stones have had a minutes problem with any of their children. They all seem to be productive and together.

As a fan who's eager to read any REAL thoughts or insights from the author regarding the Altamont concert and the Cocksucker Blues film, I first opened up to the contents section and was dismayed to not find the names, Sam Cutler and Robert Frank. I recommend Sam Cutler's book, You Can't Always Get What You Want, which is, of course, available at The New York Public Library!

According to this book, the Rolling Stones was Keith Richards and some other guys. Wish there could be one book from each band member, that would be a hilarious series! Of course we all loom largest in our own memories. Keef sure is not lacking in the ego department, but then how could it be otherwise? If one can ignore or enjoy the attitude, this is a VERY entertaining portrait of Keith's life & times. The comprehensive details on how music gets made are faskinatin', And, most surprisingly to me, he really conveys the flavour of growing up in postwar London, for the Salt Of The Earth set.

What ManUtdFan said. For better or worse, though, it's rock and roll. I respect Richards as a musician, a survivor, and a raconteur. But my heroes are James Fox, and all his nameless assistants, who dragged this fairly coherent story out of Keef. I imagine he can ramble a bit.

The gem in this book is his account of the music--the music of the blues, where the Stones fit into the larger history, the development of their sound, how they worked at it, the music of some of their contemporaries (individual musicians and bands) and the interaction between musicians, venues and sometimes studios. The rest is at times interesting (eg the early drug scene) and at times sad (bringing up children in a drug house). A worthwhile read.

The man is very humble. Very interesting in what goes in to a song and the thought behind it. The last page made me weep. Great book. Wish I could understand all the British lingo.

Best of 4 books on the Stones I've read so far - the others were Dance with the Devil, Stone Alone, and According to the Rolling Stones. Keith's book is a warm honest and engaging story. He doesn't pull punches and has quite a way with words. He doesn't try to puff up himself or his role in history, nor does he gloss over or try to excuse or make excuses for the many screw-ups in his past. But he does seem to learn from his mistakes, and recognizes the role of luck in his life, both professionally and in his many narrow escapes from death or grave bodily injuries. Despite his shambolic lifestyle, his recollection of events is remarkable, and his ability to generate riffs and grooves is undeniable, and of which he is justly proud. There are many humorous moments throughout the book, but the trip to South Africa and the ensuing wildlife safari is perhaps the most hilarious. His anthropomorphic readings of wart hogs, wildebeast and elephants will make you chuckle or even ROFL. But amid the potty humour, he evokes a beautiful image of a white dove emerging from a pile of elephant dung, unblemished. Truly a poetic moment that makes one wish he'd written more lyrics, and which perhaps metaphorically summarizes his own life and career.