Discusses the evolution of the guitar and the many choices of guitars--from acoustic masterpieces to popular electrics--that are used by singers and rock bands today. Also features a look at amplifiers and effects pedals.

"Did you know that not everything is made with machines? In fact, many musical instruments--even guitars--are made by hand. In this book you'll meet business owner Meredith Coloma, who is so passionate about guitars, she learned how to make them by hand." -- Page [4] of cover.

May 8, 2011, marks the 100th birthday of Mississippi Delta bluesman Robert Johnson, who, according to legend, sold his soul down at the crossroads of Highway 61 and Highway 49 in a midnight bargain that has haunted the music world for three-quarters of a century. The deal brought forth Johnson's incandescent guitar technique and a run of 10-inch 78 rpm singles for the Vocalion, Oriole, Conqueror and Perfect labels recorded in San Antonio in 1936 and...