How to Write One Song

 How to Write One Song, by Jeff Tweedy, 160 pgs. 

While doing some research for my future music book club, I came across this title by Wilco founder and Belleville native Jeff Tweedy. I also decided to check it out after reading an interview with local musician Beth Bombara, who said she relied on this book to work through a dry spell. This is kind of a difficult book to pigeonhole. It's not a memoir but the author highlights some moments that die-hard Wilco fans will know from his long career. It's also not a hard and fast how-to book--there's no bulleted list or structured plan for writing pop hits. While this book is more directed towards songwriters of various styles, Tweedy makes some rational and heartfelt statements about creating art of any kind, not just songs. When it comes down to it, you really feel like you're sitting in a dive bar with the author and he's opening up about the songwriting process he's developed over the decades. More than anything, Tweedy just wants the reader to shut off their self-critical naysaying and give themselves the permission to create anything, in the hopes of falling in love the idea of creation. It's a noble little pick-me-up for anyone of artistic abilities. Recommended for teens and adults.