IF YOU HAVEN'T BUILT-UP A PRIVATE LIBRARY OF YOUR OWN YET, you'd better get started !
One of the easiest ways to reference information, documentation, statistics, pictures, step-by-step build-ups, historical facts & figures, and almost anything you want, is to have and update a personal library.
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I've collected & saved books and magazines since I was a kid back in the 50's, and it's always helpful and fun to lookup info on the builders, owners, designers, and, artists, that were involved in some of the neatest Rods & Customs ever put on this Planet.
That's the very first car mag I ever bought pictured here: the October, 1953 Issue of HONK ! with Don Ferrara's '49 Ford Custom on the cover. And, recently, I was trying to figure out some info on Buster Litton's '49 Ford because the January, 2010 Issue of Rod & Custom had a car done by Dave York of British Columbia, Canada, with a similar build.
AND THERE IT WAS ! In my December, 1953, Car Craft in "living black & white" ! 
Now, again, for Historians, this is the Issue that changed "HONK !" magazine into "CAR CRAFT"...it is the very first Issue of Car Craft. The story on Buster's Shoebox began on Page 28, and I was able to reference the Stude-Style front fenders & '51 Oldsmobile rear fenders on Buster's car to the great job on the newest one in the R & C story.
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WITH ALL OF THAT IN MIND, I thought it was necessary to dedicate a Special Page here on the Hall Of Fame Legends WebSite to give you an idea about some of the truly fantastic books on the Rod & Custom Industry and its' Legends that are available today.
SO, take your time, scroll down the Page, read the Reviews, and, I know you'll definietly find a few of these you need for YOUR Library !
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"BARRIS CARS OF THE STARS" by George Barris and David Fetherston. Motorbooks, Pub.
YOU'VE PROBABLY HEARD GEORGE BARRIS' STORIES about many of the cars he's built right here on the HOF Legends WebSite. George was one of the VERY first to graciously join in the Interviews with me when I began this Site. I've always admired his work, and George, along with his late brother, SAM BARRIS, set the world of Kustomizing (with a "K") in motion all the way back in the 1940's. By the 50's they were one of the premiere shops that turned out some of the most memorable Rods & Customs of that decade. Along the way, they also were called upon to turn out many cars for various Movies & TV Shows.
The Barris' Lynwood, California location was the scene of their early triumphs in the "Hollywood Scene" BUT, in 1961, when George moved the shop to North Hollywood to be closer to the Industry, that's when things REALLY began to happen ! Because, by then, the word of the terrific cars produced at the Barris Shop spread to not just Movie & TV Production companies, but to the Stars that were in those "on screen" productions...and, in addition, to those in the Recording Industry.
What you have here in the "Barris Cars Of The Stars" volume is a definitive look at not only the importance of George's work, but of the vast scope and range of the different types of cars his shop produced.
The list of Stars is a veritible "who's who" of the Entertainment Industry ! Elvis, the late-Farah Fawcett, Sonny & Cher, The "Rat Pack" Crew (Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis, Jr.), Neil Diamond, The Beach Boys, Clint Eastwood, John Wayne, Ann-Margaret, James Brown, Dick Clark, to name just a few. And, yes, even Racing Legend ROGER PENSKE ! Plus, there's a Foreword by George's friend, the ever-beautiful BO DEREK...who was, and still is, a "10".
Do yourself, or a good friend, a favor...get this book while it's still available. Get it before they run out of copies everywhere in the Universe ! You NEED this book in your Library !
(TO HEAR GEORGE'S STORY about how the legendary "Batmobile" was created just click-on here: SPECIAL: "THE BATMOBILE" ! )
"BILLY F GIBBONS: ROCK + ROLL GEARHEAD", by Billy F Gibbons with Tom Vickers. Motorbooks, Pub.
WAIT A MINUTE ! I know what you're saying: "Hey, that book's been out for awhile. Think I've seen it before." Okay, BUT do you actually have the book in your collection ? Did you put it in your library...OR, did you say: "Yes, one of these days I've gotta get it !", and just put it off ?
Well, let me tell you from personal experience: I've been in Radio since 1967, as many of you know, and I've played ZZ TOP's Chart Toppers since they began. And, when the Reverend Billy started cranking out some "chart topping" Rods & Customs, I was with those from the beginning too.
This book is a combination of ALL of the above: Music, Cars, and, Guitars. Billy covers the entire History: his, the groups, the cars, the guitars, and, even takes time to give out the recipe for his "Killadilla Renegade Guacamole' " ! What more could you ask for in a book ?? In addition, the Photography by David Perry is superb. Pick-up a copy as soon as you can...before they're gone forever !
(BILLY'S "KOPPERHED" IS FEATURED in this book. The Original Design came from STEVE STANFORD, and you can hear Steve's story about it in our Interview ! Justclick-on here !)
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"DARRYL STARBIRD: THE BUBBLE TOP KING ", by Darryl Starbird and Brice Bledsoe. NR&CCHOF, Pub.
DARRYL STARBIRD is one of the longest-running Legends & Builders in the Rod & Custom Industry. Darryl's been a friend for many years, BUT this book speaks for itself...I'd recommend it even if I'd never met the man ! It covers his ENTIRE life & career, never-before-seen family pictures, early cars of his and his clients, ALL of his personally-built creations, the National Rod & Custom Hall Of Fame Museum, and much, much more.
This is a massive book ! It's a beautifully hard-bound volume that contains over 1,000 photos, has over 240 color pages, and is SO big that it should probably be sold by the pound !
The book was written with the help of Darryl's grandson, Brice Bledsoe, AND YOU CAN HEAR DARRYL EXPLAIN how it all came together by clicking-on this link: Darryl Starbird.
To find out how you can get your personal copy of "THE BUBBLE TOP KING", go to Darryl's WebSite: www.darrylstarbird.com/giftshop.htm
"THE HOT ROD WORLD OF ROBT. WILLIAMS", By Robt. Williams, with Mike LaVella. Foreword by Pete Chapouris. Motobooks, Pub.
THE HOT ROD CULTURE, AND THOSE THAT LIVE IT & LOVE IT, can sometimes be broken down into these parts: those that drive Hot Rods, those that build Hot Rods; those that draw Hot Rods relating to the various art forms of both the machine & its culture; those that write about Hot Rods. BUT, rarely do you find one individual who encompasses ALL of the aforementioned...and does them all successfully. Well meet, if you already haven't, ROBERT WILLIAMS.
Williams' life has taken him from his early years in Alabama, to New Mexico, and finally, California. His "Hot Rod" life has been immersed in the culture, like many of us, since the 50's. His friends have included a veritable "who's who" list of R&C Legends: Ed "Big Daddy" Roth, Von Dutch, Jim "Jake" Jacobs, Pete Chapouris, Pete Eastwood, Dan Woods, and, the one-and-only Gray Baskerville. He, along with Robert Crumb, is also one of the founders of the legendary underground Zap Comix.
But, more importantly, Williams' life has been intertwined with that of his wife and fellow artist, Suzanne. Alhough his early experiences were with fellow Hot Rodders, since the mid-60's Suzanne has been right by his side driving, helping, photographing, and sharing some of the most unique times that anyone could imagine. In fact, both Williams & Suzanne use their Rods as daily drivers, and wouldn't have it any other way !
This book is more than an "addition" to your Library or Book Shelf. It's a well-written, well-documented history from one who has been there since the formative years, and is able to transfer that history and his experiences vividly onto the printed page. No one but Robert Williams could have put down in print the amazing life he's lived. And, this 176 Page volume is complete with reams of b&w and colour photos showing Williams, his cars, and his legendary friends, in rare photos from his & Suzanne's collection.
Pete Chapouris' Foreword puts it all in perspective when he says: "The Williams body of work has grown to immense proportions...get ready for a little enlightenment as you take a ride into The Hot Rod World Of Robt. Williams."
"KUSTOMLAND: THE CUSTOM CAR PHOTOGRAPHY OF JAMES POTTER, 1955-1959", by Thom Taylor. Motorbooks, Pub.
My old pal, Jerry Weesner, alerted me to this book back at the beginning of 2009. Told me I needed to get it...if it was just to look at the pix ! Needless to say, I was on my that afternoon to find my copy, AND it is everything Jerry said, and more !
JAMES POTTER was a freelance photographer of the car scene in L.A. and the surrounding area during the 50's. Most of the work that is in the book came from Larry Watson's shop. Also featured are cars from the Renegades car club, and all of the material was culled from Potter's private archives. The photography is SPECTACULAR ! Many, if not all, of the cars pictured were not only Award Winner's, but also Cover Cars & Feature Cars throughout their history.
THOM TAYLOR, in case you just landed from Mars, is a long-time Artist that has designed many, many fantastic Rods & Customs during his career. SO, if Thom puts his "seal of approval" and hard work into a volume of this nature, you know it's one that belongs in your collection !
The title alone says it all: the place was called "KUSTOMLAND"...and you can travel back in time to get there with this book !
"AMERICAN HOT ROD: HOW TO BUILD A HOT ROD, With Boyd Coddington." By Dennis Parks. Motorbooks, Pub.
FOR ALMOST THREE DECADES he produced cars like The Lead Zephyr, CheZoom, The Boydster, The Alumacoupe, The Whatthehaye, and many, many others, including my personal favorite: CadZilla. His name was BOYD CODDINGTON, and before his untimely death in 2008, his string of Award-Winning rods & customs was enough to assure his permanent place in every Hall Of Fame imaginable. But his legendary history was even further assured by his realitiy-based TV Series "AMERICAN HOT ROD" which ran for Five Seasons on the Discovery Channel.
Beginning in 2004, and contiuning until the time of his death, American Hot Rod broke new ground and solidified Boyd's image as both an expert builder, AND, a perfectionist concerning every ride he put on the road.
In this superb volume, helmed by DENNIS PARKS, it takes you behind the scenes in Boyd's shop to put together a hot rod that both you and Boyd would be proud of ! With 176 Pages, and over 350 Photos, it takes you step-by-step in the process of building a ride that you could drive anywhere when you were finished: From your intial plan, to getting the parts, to putting the frame, suspension, and, drivetrain in place, getting the body on the frame, the paint, the upholstery...nothing has been left out. It's as if Boyd & his crew were with you every step of the way. How cool is that ? PLUS, you'll see ride, after ride, that 's already been finished and hit the streets that you can use for ideas.
This book is a fitting Tribute to the work of Boyd, his crew, and, the American Hot Rod Series. I sincerely suggest that you add it to your personal library.
(To read the Special "Boyd Coddington Tribute Page" here on the HOF Legends WebSite, just click-on here.
" DEAN JEFFRIES: 50 FABULOUS YEARS IN HOT RODS, RACING & FILM", by Tom Cotter, Foreward by Bruce Meyer. Motorbooks, Pub.
DEAN JEFFRIES, like many of the true Legends of the Rod & Custom Industry, was there almost from the beginning. Some of his early work was with Von Dutch, and George Barris, but Dean's pretty much self-sustaining so he's been a "solo act" for most of the time. The "Mantaray", "Monkeemobile", Green Hornet's "Black Beauty", The "Ala Kart", and many others had Dean's craftsmanship in them.
I met Dean in 2001 when I drove the Invicta down to Darryl Starbird's Annual Induction Ceremonies in Oklahoma. Dean was being inducted that year. It was a few years after his terrible accident in his shop...and he was truly lucky to be alive. But you can read about the accident, his dedication to his beloved wife, Row, and his entire career in this book. It's done in chronological order and covers not only his cars, but his Indy 500 connection, his movie & film career, and many facets of his life you've never known before.
This is fitting tribute to a man who might not have gotten a lot of public recognition for his work before, but was always respected by his peers. With this book, all will learn of his importance to the History of the Rod & Custom Industry. It's a book you really should own.
"ALL-AMERICAN HOT ROD: THE CARS, THE LEGENDS, THE PASSIONS", By Michael Dregni. Motorbooks, Pub.
IF YOU WERE ALIVE & INVOLVED IN THE BIRTH OF HOT RODDING during the 40's, 50's, and, 60's like a lot of us were, MICHAEL DREGNI'S "All-American Hot Rod" will be like a refresher course in Hot Rodding 101. If you came to the scene later, then this is an all-purpose read that you better put on your "Personal Library" List right away !
The cars, the stories, the pix, the art renderings, the Drag Strip Posters, the Hot Rod movies, the music, the Hot Rod posters, the Hot Rod album covers, the Hot Rod comic books (yes, they do exist), the Hot Rod novels, the car club memorabilia...I could go on and on with this list, but I'll save you (and, me) the trouble, by telling you once again that you'd best just GET THIS BOOK !
If rods like The Little Deuce Coupe, Grabowski's Kookie Kar, The California Kid, Tom McMullen's Roadster, and, Ed Roth's Beatnik Bandit, OR, names like Jim "Jake" Jacobs, Wally Parks, Tex Smith, and, Doane Spencer ring a bell...well, you know you're on the right track. PLUS, here's a list of some of the contributer's: David Fetherston, Robert Williams, Steve Hendrickson, Pat Ganahl, Gale Banks, Kent Bash, Dale Klee & Albert Drake. They've all added on-the-scene color & commentary to Michael Dregni's work.
I'm not gonna say any more, except if you want to smile from page-to-page as you thumb through this book, and say to yourself: "I can't believe someone actually took the time to put ALL of this information in one 200 Page book ! " OR, "Each of the stories in this book is so cool it could have almost been a book on its own !", then far be it from me to stop you ...'cause I said the exact same thing !
"OLD SCHOOL CUSTOMS, TOP TRADITIONAL CUSTOM CAR BUILDERS", by Alan Mayes. Motorbooks, Pub.
ALAN MAYES and I see each other about once a year, and I'm always amazed at how much energy, talent, and, hard work he puts into all of his projects. He's the Managing Editor of Old Skool Rodz & Car Kulture DeLuxe, but always finds time to crank out some very cool books on his own. This one is what's known as a "keeper" !
It encompasses 13 Custom Car Builders...old & new. Darryl Starbird, Gene Winfield, Bill Hines, Bo Huff, Tom Culbertson, Gary "Chopit" Fioto, Brad Masterson, Gary Brown, and 5 others, each have a Chapter devoted to them.
The photos, the information, the quality of the book itself, are all of the highest standards. This is one book you'll go back to revisit over and over again...unearthing something you missed everytime.
(HEAR ALAN and BO HUFF, talk about how the book was put together by clicking-on here: Alan Mayes, Old School Customs )
'ROY BRIZIO STREET RODS: MODERN HOT RODS DEFINED", by Bo Bertilsson. Motorbooks, Pub.
A NUMBER OF YEARS BACK I was privileged to meet Andy Brizio a couple of times at Darryl Starbird's National Rod & Custom Hall Of Fame Museum. Andy was Inducted to the HOF and he, and a great group of Street Rodders, drove their Rods from California to Oklahoma. Andy is a veritable font of knowledge on R&C's and he passed on that wisdom to his son, Roy.
ROY BRIZIO, learned much from his Dad, working with Jim "Jake" Jacobs as a youngster, and from his Dad's friends in L.A. Over 30 years ago Roy opened his own shop and never looked back.
He's had AMBR Winners, built cars for Rocker's Eric Clapton, Neil Young, and Jeff Beck, restored legendary cars like "The Ala Kart", and Sam Barris' Merc...well, you get the picture. AND, the one thing that ALL cars that leave Roy Brizio's Shop are capable of is BEING DRIVEN ! Always have been, always will be: DRIVERS .
Bo Bertillson, the writer/photographer of the book has been around a long time, and treats his subjects with respect. He's done well by Roy Brizio for sure. Buy the book. I guarantee you will not be disappointed.
(IN ONE OF MY INTERVIEWS WITH the legendary pioneer-builder GEORGE BARRIS I asked him about, both, his brother Sam building the very first chopped '49 Merc, AND, his opinion of the restoration done by Roy Brizio's Shop. To hear the interview on this truly Historic build, and George's thoughts on his wonderful brother, Sam Barris, just click-on here.)
"HOW TO PAINT YOUR SHOW CAR", By Stefan R. Gesterkamp, Foreword by Jay Leno. Motorbooks, Pub.
BACK IN THE 50'S & 60'S SOME OF THE MOST FAMOUS T.V. COMMERCIALS, and, Ads that ran in newspapers across the Country, were from Earl Scheib Auto Paint & Body with Earl announcing: "We'll paint ANY car for $29.95 !". And they did. In fact, the company which Earl founded in 1937 is still in business today...but the price isn't $29.95 anymore.
Now through the years, Earl Sceib, Maaco, and many other "quick trip" type facilities have painted literally thousands of cars, BUT what we're talking about here in this superb volume from STEFAN R. GESTERKAMP is NOT one of those jobs !
Stefan is a true Master Craftsman who was schooled and earned his Degree in his native Germany, arrived in Los Angeles in 1994 to work with BASF in their Automotive Refinish Division, and has become one of the best-known professionals/painters/advisors in the Country. Painting has been his career for over 30 years, and it shows on every page of this book. "How To Paint Your Show Car" is broken down into 11 Chapters that give you the full scope of what to expect if you hire someone to do the paint on your ride for you, or, if you decide to try it yourself.
From what type of job you want (restoration, original, custom), to body work, preping, masking,chosing your paint, priming,painting,detailing, finishing...it's all covered. And, after that, he proceeds to show you how you MUST "blow the car apart", detail every inch of it, then put it all back together for TRUE Show Rod participation ...to win with the Big Dogs ! Stefan even includes a special chapter on the "EcoJet" Carbon Fiber concept that he was asked to work on for Jay Leno. Stefan's also friends with Chip Foose, and many other great professionals, and that adds an extra cache' to this whole Super-Pro project.
As I read through the book, three thoughts hit me head-on: 1. If I was ever going to have my car painted by a Pro, I'd need to read this to help the project along; 2. If I ever thought about painting a car myself I'd definetly need this book to figure out the RIGHT way to get it done. Oh, and then there's #3: If I didn't have the skills to do either of those other two things...I'd run fast as I could to get the book to find out how to accomplish ANYTHING having to do with painting my car !
Congrats, Stefan, this book is a WINNER all the way through ! JK
"MERCHANTS OF SPEED: The Men Who Built America's Performance Industry", By Paul D. Smith. Foreword by Barney Navarro. Motorbooks,Pub.
THEY WERE FROM CALIFORNIA, young, loved cars, and drove fast. But, they wanted to drive faster...and herein lies the tale.
Their names are legendary and would make the average street rod builder of the 40's, and, 50's, salivate at the mere thought of wrenching the equipment they created onto his ride: Navarro, Edlebrock, Spalding, Weber, Weiand, Offenhauser, Iskenderian, Potvin. Thickston...well, you get the picture. You know what - and who- I mean.
In his first published book, Canadian PAUL D. SMITH, "gets it right" from the Introduction by the late Barney Navarro, to the very last page. His chronicles of men who built the SoCal Speed & Racing Industry, which took off like a rocket after WWII and wrote history at the same time, could not have been better accomplished. ALL of the stories, and all of the men who achieved dreams & goals that would become known worldwide, are honored tastefully and honestly.
Two of my personal favorites concern men who rose from what could have been insurmountable odds to crowning achievments: CHET HERBERT, and, PHIL WEIAND. Both were destined by fate to live out most of their lives by being confined to wheel chairs. But it NEVER stopped them from building their careers or their companies.
If you REALLY want to know the story of where all that fantastic equipment you've heard about for decades came from, this is a book you've got to have. And, if you're using some of that same equipment from these legends that's still being produced today, you definitely need the book to find out where those "roots" began ! JK
"THE VINCENT IN THE BARN: GREAT STORIES OF MOTORCYCLE ARCHEOLOGY", By Tom Cotter, Foreword by David Edwards. Motorbooks, Pub.
I'LL ADMIT RIGHT AT THE OUTSET THAT I've pretty much been a "lifelong collector". My Mother used to say that I had the inability to throw anything away. Cars, antiques, comic character memorabila & toys, golden age radio shows & premiums, antique toys, Art Deco items, petroliana, R&C books & mags...well, you get the picture. Always "on the search" for something rare, different, and that I previously had on a "want list".
Well, many times those sought-after items finally came into my possession by rummaging through musty old antique shops, going to flea markets, and going to old houses where someone said: "I just may have something you're looking for. It's...." And, suddenly, you were on your way to the Treasure Hunt....sometimes coming back with "gold", other times "striking out" altogether.
In his "...In The Barn" Series, TOM COTTER again scores one-hundred-percent, this time with Bike lovers everywhere in "The Vincent In The Barn" ! Name your bike: Indian, Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Crocker, Brough, Ariel, BMW, BSA, Triumph, et al, and, of course, the legendary Vincent, and someone has searched high-and-low to find one to put in their collection, swap, or, sell. And, you guessed it: sometimes coming back with a prize, other times empty-handed.
BUT, the "finding" is only part of the story, the REAL story is in "how" it was found. And, in this book Cotter's contributor's have plenty of stories to tell ! A couple of my favorites are by Ken Gross, first on Page153, and later on Page 188. To put it midly, all of the stories contained in this volume are interesting, special, unique, and, at times, mind-blowing to say the least. So if you're into bikes, bobbers, choppers, road racers, factory one-offs, in any way, this is one you have to put in your collection. If you're not, buy it anyway ! It's a great read and you'll learn something of the culture it represents.
(HALL OF FAME ARTIST, M.K. JOHN, has been life-long friends with JOHN PARHAM of J&P Cycles. John Parham is featured in a story that begins on PAGE 26 of Tom Cotter's book, and to hear M.K.'s story about his love of Cycles, and, his friendship with John just click-on here ! )
"THE ART OF THE HOT ROD", By Ken Gross with Photography By Peter Harholdt, Foreword by Alex Xydias. Motorbooks, Pub.
"THE ART OF THE HOT ROD" was an Award Winner from the time it first hit book stores. It is one of the most physically-imposing volumes you'll ever add to your library. It is large (10.5" x 12"), 240 pages, hardbound, and weighs a few pounds. Be Warned: when you put it out where others can see it, make sure they've used a shop rag or towel before they handle it. This is one book you don't want to get fingerprints on !
You may be familiar with KEN GROSS' work: he was Executive Director of the Petersen Automotive Museum in L.A., has written for The Rodders Journal, Road & Track, and others, and has been a car buff-owner for decades. PETER HARHOLDT also has "oil" in his veins as proven by his cars, racing ability, and, photography. He raises the bar every time he points the lense at anything with four wheels.
Twenty Master Builders are profiled in this massive work. Among them are a few I've been privileged to spend some time with like Ken "Posies" Fenical, Steve Moal, Steve Frisbie, and, Rick Dore. Some of the other sixteen builders include: Troy Trepanier, Barry Lobeck, Zane Cullen, Alan Johnson, Bobby Alloway, and, Dave Simard. Each one a "sculpter in steel" of the highest quality.
The Foreword by the Legendary ALEX XYDIAS introduces you to a book you'll come back to view time & time again. Ken Gross' text sets the pace, the impact of Peter Harholdt's photography jars the senses making you see - if you haven't already done so - the "automobile" as done by these twenty builders as a true "art form" all on its own.
( "THE EXTREMELINER" built by my old friend, KEN "POSIES" FENICAL, is featured in "The Art Of The Hot Rod". In our Interview, Ken told me how it all came together...you can hear the whole story right now by just clicking-on here: "POSIES" EXTREMELINER STORY ! )
"THE LEGENDARY CUSTOM CARS AND HOT RODS OF GENE WINFIELD", by David Grant, Foreword by Spence Murray. Motorbooks, Pub.
GENE WINFIELD and I have known each other for many years. My Invicta was built by Manuel Arteche', and Gene did the later-Candy Gold paint job on Manuel's '41 Ford. In fact, when I started doing the Interviews for this HOF Legends WebSite, Gene Winfield was the first one that got together with me for an Interview back in July, 2006, at the KKOA Lead Sled in Salina. So, I was really glad to see this book hit the stands chronicling his History.
Gene Winfield has done it ALL ! He's built rods, customs, race cars, Bonneville-worthy machines, raced his own cars, worked in the corporate world, created models, built TV & Movie cars...there is almost no facet of the Automotive World that Gene hasn't been a part of. He is a true Industry legend, and one of the early pioneers. And he's still working today !
If you've enjoyed some of the great stories that you've heard Gene and I talk about here on the WebSite, you will definitely love reading this book ! Gene is a Master Craftsman, is still building cars today, and, the pictures and info in this book are "top rate". I hope there's a second volume to follow !!
(TO HEAR GENE'S story about his early days and first shop, just click-on here: Gene Winfield )
"HOT ROD GARAGES', by Peter Vincent. Motorbooks, Pub.
THIS IS ONE OF THE MOST SPECTACULAR, VISUALLY STUNNING BOOKS on Rod & Custom Builders that you will ever see. It chronicles the garages of 18 of the best builders in the Industry. Many are well known to you, others will be after you read this book. The stunning works of "Rolling Sculpture" that they produce have to start somewhere...and, their garages are where it all begins. This is an "inside look" into the places where these superb machines that you see in mags, and at shows, are built.
PETER VINCENT is no stranger to the R&C world, and he was given access to the workspaces of these fantastic builders. Vern & Keith Tardel, Pete Eastwood, Terry Hegman, Roy Brizio, Cole & Pat Foster are all in there. Special sections are devoted to Steve Moal (who I had the pleasure of meeting at his Induction into Darryl Starbird's National R&C Hall Of Fame), and, The Rolling Bones (Ken Schmidt & Keith Cornell). Then, you can't forget Dick Page, Cal Tanaka, Bob Lick, Gary Harms, and the rest that make up the 18 covered in this book.
The die-cut cover of the book is unique in and of itself, and shows you that the book your holding is VERY special. Vincent's photography is "state of the art"...in fact it IS art ! The warm, full-bodied color pix, the subtle black & white shots, the photographic composition, all add up to make the viewing of this book truly an iconic look at the Rod & Custom Culture. Almost any of the photos in here could be framed and exhibited on their own. But, don't you dare tear-out any of the pages !
All-in-all, Peter Vincent's "Hot Rod Garages" is definetly a "keeper", and should be in your personal R&C library. Period.
"SO-CAL SPEED SHOP", by Mark Christensen, Foreword by Alex Xydias, Epilogue by Tony Thacker. Motorbooks, Pub.
Living in Southern California in the early-60's I truly enjoyed the sun, the surf, the palm trees, the cool drive-ins where I could cruise in my '57 Dodge, and the entire experience of just BEING THERE ! But, I often wondered how it was many years earlier, before the real estate began to get gobbled up...and when the R & C Industry was in its formative stages. The book "SO-CAL SPEED SHOP" not only answers any questions you might have about that era but, with page-after-page of rare photos, and personal information from those "who were there", graphically illustrates how "early" So-Cal looked every step of the way.
ALEX XYDIAS, was an ex-army airman, son of a Greek immigrant and a beautiful girl from Mississippi, who helped change the face of the world of auto racing in the post-WWII years. He, and his team of racers, set records, produced equipment still sought after today, helped bring professionalism to a once-feared-by-laymen term "Hot Rodder", and explored building machines that to this day are revered by all who fasten a seatbelt, and don a helmet.
MARK CHRISTENSEN'S work on this book is nothing short of phenominal. He nails-it on every page. He vividly reminds me of the questions I asked myself all those many years ago, and answers each and every one with a clarity that can't be matched. The Legendary ALEX XYDIAS' insight & info on both his personal life and the company he founded are priceless. TONY THACKER'S take on the re-born So-Cal Speed Shop, headed by another Industry Legend, PETE CHAPOURIS, infuses a current-day look at a company that is just as important in this Century as it was when Alex founded it on March 3, 1946.
"ROD & CUSTOM IN THE 1950'S", by The Editors Of R&C (Tim Bernsau & Damon Lee). Motorbooks, Pub.
If you've read my introduction to this page, you'll understand that my personal collection of "the little pages" books is pretty comprehensive. That's because I was there to buy 'em to begin with ! However, there are many, many issues from those halcyon days of the 50's that I missed. Well, "ROD & CUSTOM IN THE 1950'S" has pretty much solved that problem for me...AND, for Y-O-U !
TIM BERNSAU (still with R&C), and, DAMON LEE (now with Speedway Motors), have assembled key issues of R&C that cover that era perfectly: Look for a young Gene Winfield on the cover of the June, 1953 issue; Bob Hirohata's personal story of going cross country in his Barris' built-Merc is one I've waited for decades to read in its entireity and it's there; the August, 1957 issue has Darryl Starbird's first feature...it's on his personal '47 Caddy custom; Dean Moon does a story on his '34 Ford in R&C's November, 1955 copy, with the gorgeous actress/beauty queen, Ruth Hampton, perched on a fender on Page 115 in one of the most iconic R&C "mild cheesecake" photos ever. (Please don't drool on that page !)
Plus there's the first coverage of Sam Barris' Chopped '50 Buick; Spence Murray's R & C Dream Truck, and its accident pictures; Honest Charley's ads (wonder if I could still get a set of duals & mufflers from him for $23.95 to fit my '57 Dodge ?); cool taillight ideas for your '56 Chevy (instead of a set of '56 Packard lenses, Page 240 will show you how neat a set of '56 Chryler units look.), Well, you get the picture...and, if you REALLY want to know "how it was back in the day" this is the book that will let you find out. I'm glad I was able to get my copy...you need one for your library too !
(TO HEAR R&C's founding Editor, SPENCE MURRAY, tell how it was created in 1953. Just click-on here, listen, enjoy ! THE ORIGIN OF ROD & CUSTOM MAGAZINE )
" COLE FOSTER AND THE SALINAS BOYS", by Cole Foster with Mike LaVella. Motorbooks, Pub.
COLE FOSTER is among the very best of the new breed of builders that have surfaced in the last two decades. I've always liked Cole's work and, a few years ago when I was putting this WebSite together, I eMailed the info to Cole and he sent me back a note saying he'd be glad to help in anyway he could. So when this book arrived I was really glad that his craftsmanship could be seen by the masses.
Cole's cars have been magazine features, show winners, and, been "daily drivers" to some who own 'em. His work is impeccable, his attention to the smallest detail echoes "perfection", and, seen in person, his cars will flat-out blow you away ! They are truly "state-of-the-art" .
Cole learned from one of the best: his dad, the late Pat Foster, and he not only builds dynamite cars...he puts together some super cool bikes as well. But, I'm getting ahead of the story ! Check-it out for yourself, you will be amazed at some of the pics...many from Cole's personal collection !!
"HOW TO BUILD A TRADITONAL FORD HOT ROD", By Mike Bishop & Vern Tardel. Motorbooks, Pub.
SO YOU'VE BEEN TELLING YOURSELF FOR YEARS: "One of these days, I gotta put together a REAL Ford "Hot Rod !" But, you don't want to commit to just "any" type of Rod...you want an in-your-face, drive-down-the-road kind of machine you saw (and, see) in all of those black & white, or, sepia-toned, pix from the "Golden Age" of Hot Rodding.
Well, friends, step right up and listen closely: "How To Build A Traditional Ford Hot Rod", written by MIKE BISHOP, and, constructed along the way by VERN TARDEL, IS the answer to your prayers ! It will not only show you how to accomplish your dream but, in addition, will guide you step-by-step through the ENTIRE process...explaining how to do it THE RIGHT WAY !
I would have recommended this book to begin with but, more importantly, the book's writer, Mike Bishop (a California native) and I have a bond/connection neither one of us was aware of until now: Mike was inspired to build an Model A-based rod when he was about 12 years old, after seeing a beautiful version of that car built by DON FERRARA ! WELL, if you read my "Tribute Page To Don Ferrara" on this WebSite, or my Info on the top of this Page, you know that, growing up in St. Louis, at the age of 13, my interest in Customs began by seeing Don's '49 Ford on the cover of "HONK!" ! So though we were miles apart, both Mike & I were influenced in our choices by one man: Don Ferrara !
Throughout this book you will learn that Mike's "Bluey" Hot Rod Ford was based on Don's Model A. You will also learn that, when it comes to building & re-building Ford Flathead's, Vern Tardel is an expert in all phases of working with that motor. And, on Page 149, you'll even see "the man" himself, Don Ferrara, behind the wheel of Mike's "A", giving the final approval to the build of a car he inspired so many years earlier. It truly doesn't get any better than that.
(TO READ MY TRIBUTE to Don Ferrara , just click-on here ...and thanks in advance. Don was one of the "real" Pioneers who could do it all, and do it well, in BOTH Rods & Customs.)
"ED 'BIG DADDY' ROTH: HIS LIFE, TIMES, CARS, AND ART", by Pat Ganahl, Foreword by Robert Williams. Contact: Motorbooks, Pub.
AFTER MANY YEARS OF FOLLOWING HIS WORK in Rod & Custom, Custom Rodder, Street Rodder, etc., I finally met PAT GANAHL at the 29th Annual KKOA Lead Sled Spectacular in Salina, Kansas. Pat's been a recognized figure in the Rod & Custom Industry for decades and has written many books during that time. Being based in California, he's also met most of the great, and near-great, in his various capacities as editor, writer, photographer.
One of those most-memorable characters that Pat met and knew was the "one-and-only" Ed "Big Daddy" Roth. He's put together an inside-look at Ed's life in this unique book that involved the help of Ed's family, friends, former co-workers, et al. Nothing is left out, everything is covered. The amount of rare, personal photos, and information, PLUS, a complete chronology of Ed's cars, restored cars,personal rides, and his art itself, is worth the price of admission alone.
No, this book isn't new, but that's not the point. It's a hardcover volume, slickly produced, and if you want to know almost ANYTHING about Ed Roth...you'll probably find it between these pages.
SPECIAL NOTE: A fascinating tale of Ed's "ROTAR" starts on PAGE 74 of the book. Old friend, MARK MORIARITY helped with info & pix on Roth, and to hear Mark's story about meeting Ed and restoring that infamous machine, just click-on here: Restoring Ed Roth's "Rotar" ! This is one you MUST hear !!
"VIRGIL EXNER: VISIONEER", by Peter Grist. Veloce Books, Dist. By Motorbooks, Pub.
This is the official biography of one of the Automotive Industries most creative Designers. Ever own a 50's-60's MoPar ? I have: two sleek '57 Dodge Hardtops. This is the man who created those and the rest of "The Forward Look".
But many forget that Exner spent time at Studebaker, and GM, before he ever got to Chrysler. In fact, check-out pages 15 & 17 of this book for some of my favorite Studebaker illustrations by "Ex", as he liked to be called. He worked on the '36 Buicks, and the '35-'36 Ponitiacs for GM. He also worked on the designs for the late-30's Studes, my Dad owned a new '39 Champion...Ex was in on those. In addition, he created the landmark, post-war designed 1947 Studebaker. And, yes, years later, his Chrysler 300 Series would be one of the most legendary of all ! However, don't blame Exner for the 1962 MoPars that hit the streets...someone else was responsible for shrinking his original, really beautiful designs.
Most remember his as "The Fin Man" , BUT, VIRGIL EXNER, did much more than design "fins". He really envisioned where not only cars, but boats too could be taken into the future. And, if you've ever thought of moving to Detroit and seeking a job as a designer, you need to read Exner's story on Pages 88 & 89. It's truly an eye-opener. I learned much that I never would have without his professional input on the subject of "Corporate Designing In Detroit".
This is one of the most comprehensive books of its kind you'll ever find, and it also covers the career of Exner's son: Virgil Exner, Jr. His story alone could be the subject of a book on its own. The many never-before-seen pictures, artwork, designs, and family pictures that are in this book, plus, the meticulous research done to put this book on your shelf, are all A+, so don't hesitate to get it for yourself, OR, give it as a gift.
"HOT ROD KINGS: TOP TRADITIONAL ROD AND CUSTOM BUILDERS", by David Perry & Kevin Thompson, Foreword by Billy F Gibbons. Motorbooks, Pub.
If you've read my above review for Alan Mayes' "Old School Customs" book, then you'll understand it when I say that you need to pick-up this volume also. "HOT ROD KINGS" covers 11 truly gifted builders: KeithTardel, Sean Johnston, Mike Smith, Rudy Rodriguez, Mercury Charlie, and six others including Cole Foster, and my old friend Gary Howard.
KEVIN THOMPSON'S writing chronicles each of these superb craftsmen, and DAVID PERRY'S photography is simply awesome. You not only get a history of each of these artists, but a look at their shops, garages, finished, and, unfinished projects. There are cool stories about Joe & Jason (the Kennedy Brothers), Jimmy White (Circle City Hot Rods), and, Scott Mugford (Blue Collar Customs). All-in-all, I can't say enough good things about this book !
"HOT ROD KINGS" is a MUST for your library-collection of Rod & Custom books. David Perry's inspired, on-location pix are justification enough to bring this one home as soon as possible ! (In case his name sounds familiar, David Perry also did the magnificent photography in Billy Gibbons' book...a review on that book is on this page too.)
(HEAR GARY HOWARD's story about building JIMMY VAUGHAN's '61 "Hot Rod" Caddy ! Simply click-on here to listen. )
"GO THE GREYHOUND WAY: THE ROMANCE OF THE ROAD", By Robert Gabrick. Dist. by Motorbooks,
SINCE THE WHEEL WAS INVENTED, we've always tried to figure out how to move groups of people to their destinations. On land, frst there were carts, then wagons, coaches, buck boards, and, stage coahes. Later, trains did the job. But trains couldn't always traverse "inland" areas, so in the early part of the 20th Century - continuing motorized transportation after the birth of the automobile - busses were invented. And, with its humble beginnings in 1914, The Greyhound Bus Company, eventually became the countries largest bus-oriented "people mover".
You might think it's funny to have a review of book about a bus company on an R&C car Site, BUT how many of you, at one time or another, HAVE ridden on a Greyhound ? I know I sure have ! Many years ago, when I was still in High School, I went with a buddy of mine to visit a former classmate of his...in Monterey, Mexico !! Yep, we took a bus from St. Louis, Missouri to Monterey, Mexico, and back. And it was an adventure I'll never forget. (Remind me to tell you some stories from that trip one of these days ! )
Well, that's what ROBERTY GABRICK has created with this book: a look back at the "romance of the road", the excitement of sharing a road trip with a group of people...some who may become friends after your journey, no matter how long.
Great pictures, a fantastic chronology of EACH AND EVERY BUS BUILT for and used by Greyhound, and, superb coverage of the ads that were placed in magazines for many decades by the company. All aluding to the company's later-trademark phrase: "Go Greyhound, and leave the driving to us ! " This is a book well worth your time, with reams of information about a time period that existed when America, and Greyhound, both ran at a simpler pace.
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"DARRYL STARBIRD: THE BUBBLE TOP KING ", by Darryl Starbird and Brice Bledsoe
DARRYL STARBIRD is one of the longest-running Legends & Builders in the Rod & Custom Industry. Darryl's been a friend for many years, BUT this book speaks for itself...I'd recommend it even if I'd never met the man ! It covers his ENTIRE life & career, never-before-seen family pictures, early cars of his and his clients, ALL of his personally-built creations, the National Rod & Custom Hall Of Fame Museum, and much, much more.
This beautifully hard-bound volume contains over 1,000 photos, has over 240 color pages, and is so big that it should probably be sold by the pound ! It was written with the help of Darryl's grandson, Brice Bledsoe, AND YOU CAN HEAR DARRYL EXPLAIN how it all came together by clicking-on this link: Darryl Starbird
To find out how you can get your personal copy of "THE BUBBLE TOP KING", go to Darryl's WebSite: www.darrylstarbird.com/giftshop.htm
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BOOKS WILL BE ADD TO THE LIST AS I GET A CHANCE TO GO OVER THEM, but if you don't have these they're a GREAT start ! I've read 'em all, they're in my library, and they need to be in yours !! JK
Many thanks to NICHOLE SCHIELE at MOTORBOOKS for her help and support !
THE MOTORBOOKS WEBSITE ! To get more info & see more of any of the books listed here, simply click-on here: http://www.motorbooks.com/
OR, Call Them At: 1- 800-826-6600
