Heartbreak Is the National Anthem: How Taylor Swift Reinvented Pop Music by Rob Sheffield
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Web ID: 203120895 reviews
Fun & Nostalgic
I loved this. Sheffield is a true fan but unlike most of us he has had far more access to Taylor over the years. His insight into how her music has changed pop music was insightful and interesting. This was an instant pre-order for my adult Swiftie.
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Customer review from barnesandnoble.com
Perfect for Any Swift Fans!!
I’m not a Swiftie, but I understand why Taylor Swift is such a massive phenomenon Rob Sheffield’s "Heartbreak Is the National Anthem" feels like getting a VIP pass to watch her rise from country star to pop icon. Sheffield, in his full “superfan era”, shares lots of fun details and behind-the-scenes stories that make you feel close to her journey. Taylor Swift is an inspiring role model, handling doubts and challenges with grace. This book is a must-read for Swifties who will love it, and even casual listeners might find themselves hooked. Like Beyoncé, Taylor has a special quality that deeply connects with her fans. Sheffield’s enthusiasm for Swift is contagious, and his book makes a strong case for her huge impact on pop culture. Not a fan yet? Get ready—this book might make you one! A huge thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the opportunity to read this advance copy.
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Customer review from barnesandnoble.com
good for taylor swift fans
I would like to thank Dey Street Books and Net Galley for the chance to read this as an ARC. This is a quirky kind of book to review. It is written as as series of short takes on different albums and ideas in Taylor Swift's musical life. The chapters are short and do not always follow a chronological order. The author is a writer for Rolling Stone and many of the chapters feel like a short article, rather than part of a continuing story. There is a lot of information, it just doesn't all hang together all that well. I consider myself a fan, but I think you need to be a bit more devoted to Taylor Swift to get all the references. All in all, it was well written and enjoyable to read.
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Customer review from barnesandnoble.com
A Must for Taylor Swift Fans
Thank you Rob Sheffield ( @robbiesheff ), Dey Street Books( @deystreet ), and NetGalley ( @netgalley ) for allowing me to read Heartbreak is the National Anthem early (publishes November 12, 2024). This book is an excellent overview of Taylor Swift’s career by a music journalist who knows his stuff—and Taylor. Each of her eras is expertly covered, along with deep dives into certain songs and events in her life. I found it to be a quick read, and its focus on the industry and not the drama (although it’s mentioned) to be refreshing. Definitely a must read for Taylor fans and a great gift for the holidays! #HeartbreakistheNationalAnthem #NetGalley #RobSheffield #DeyStreetBooks
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Customer review from barnesandnoble.com
Long Live (Taylor's Version)
Littered with references and lyrics, unapologetic in its fandom, Heartbreak Is The National Anthem is a worthwhile read for fans new and old, as well as those who want to understand the phenomenon that is Taylor Swift. Rob Sheffield, with nuance and honesty, deftly breaks down Taylor's journey to help readers see her in all her forms. From Taylor the celebrity to Taylor the myth, Rob looks at all the puzzle pieces that create her image to form a whole glittering picture, a mirrorball so many young women have seen themselves in over the years. Deeply insightful, Rob uses his knowledge and wisdom of the music industry to take a look at the context in which Taylor has arisen, the artists that have inspired her, and the moments that defined and redefined her trajectory. Connections are made in this book that left even me as a long-time fan shocked, surprised I hadn't seen the (invisible) strings before. (A few connections I thought might be far-reaching, but with Miss Swift anything is possible. She is a Mastermind, after-all.) Heartbreak Is the National Anthem is not just for fans, but it's not just for people who don't "get it" either. This book is for anyone who wants a fresh take on the phenomenon of Taylor, one that's insightful, entertaining, and nuanced. Obviously, this is best paired with a Taylor playlist of your choosing playing in the background for maximum effect.
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Customer review from barnesandnoble.com