Dreaming Out Loud
by Bruce Feiler

Publisher:  Avon Books
ISBN:  0380975785

Dreaming Out Loud focuses on three country stars: Garth Brooks, Wynonna Judd, and Wade Hayes. The book isn't based solely on these stars, but rather, a combination of their stories along with stories of Nashville itself.

The author was granted exclusive access to the three stars, following them to concerts, media events, and tapings of television specials. The story unfolds with his observations, as well as with one-on-one conversations with the stars themselves.

The majority of the book is about Garth, Wynonna, and Wade, but there are also chapters in the book that deal with country "outlaws" such as Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson, as well as young starlets Deana Carter and LeAnn Rimes. Another interesting chapter deals with Sarah Ophelia Colley (Minnie Pearl,) who she was, how she "became" Minnie Pearl, and how her death affected those that knew her.

Fans of Garth, Wade, and Wynonna should note that this is not a book in which only glorious praise is given and nothing negative is revealed. Mr. Feiler tells it like it is, although, at times, it may not cast the artists in their best light. Still, you won't find supermarket tabloid content either.

The book is definitely interesting reading in that you'll learn more about the three main stars, and in the process you'll also get a Nashville history lesson. What a deal.

Bruce Feiler is an award-winning author, with three previous books to his credit. He has covered country music pieces for The New York Times, The New Republic, and National Public Radio.

Shelly Lahman, your Guide for Country Music