"This book by expert blues scholar Gayle Dean Wardlow reveals the stories of the great blues pioneers - many in their own words. Based on personal interviews, public records, and even door-to-door canvassing, Wardlow's lively writings reflect the unique excitement of blues search-and-discovery. He paints colorful portraits of both legends and unknowns of the 1920s, '30s, and beyond who helped shape the music: Charlie Patton, Ishmon Bracey, Bukka White,...