Ukulele

Book excerpt: These days the ukulele is experiencing a revolution-both as a valid instrument that can sweetly transform pop music and rock and roll, and as the focus of dozens of clubs springing up across the world. Ukulele! brings the "uke" world to light, exposing its colorful history, quirky characters, and irresistible charm. Dozens of colorful photos and ephemera make Ukulele! as fun to look at as it is to read. Celebrate the history of the ukulele and the unique culture that surrounds it in Ukulele by Daniel Dixon with Dixie Dixon and Jayne McKay. Ukulele explores the spiritual quality that brings people together by discussing the colorful characters that have been drawn to the instrument over the years. Daniel Dixon traces its origins in Hawaii and illustrates how it traveled to the mainland U.S. and became such a popular instrument. Ukulele also showcases the best of the early players such as Cliff Edwards as well as the most popular contemporary uke players like Israel Kamakawiwo'ole and Jake Shimabukuro.