White Owl, an imprint of Pen and Sword Publishing provided an early galley for review.

As someone of similar age to the author but living an ocean apart, the only things I knew of the punk movement were from records my older brother played. Therefore, I very much enjoy the way Palmer lays out this discussion and appreciate the education on the factors that contributed to the rise of the punk movement in the UK.

Looking back now, decades later, I recognize many of the names and players in the movement. Over time, I became familiar with many from the post-punk and new-wave movements that followed. All of it I can look back on fondly as I enjoy so many types of music from that time period. I am glad to have the history documented in such a manner.

Well researched and executed, this book balances the presentation of facts with entertaining stories and makes for a fantastic read. There is a balance of information across a multitude of bands, giving appropriate coverage to the better known acts while also identifying those which were I portant to the punk movement even though they did not achieve the fame or notoriety of others. I particularly enjoyed the analysis of how fashion, particularly in relation to women’s hair, and welcomed the inclusion of class consideration as a driving force, too. A terrific book.