Depeche Mode: The Unauthorized Biography

by Soledad Romero Mariño, Fernando López del Hierro (Illustrator)

Take the rebellious dreams of young musicians, add the gripping influence of punk, and throw in a brand-new Yamaha CS-5 synthesizer, ad you've got the perfect ingredients for the making of a band that will take over the world as innovators of modern music. Readers of all ages will love learning about the formation of Depeche Mode, their groundbreaking music, and the message behind their lyrics that made them unforgettable legends.

Genres: Music, Picture Books, Nonfiction

40 pages, Hardcover

Published August 1, 2020

Reviews

[Anna-Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was gifted this book. It's a kids' book about how the band Depeche Mode came to be. The story was brief and had editing issues. The illustrations were lovely. It's a fun little book.

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Given that Depeche Mode was inducted into the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame, this book is very timely. The combination of Martin Gore’s lyrics with Dave Gahan’s voice is mesmerizing. Add Andy Fletcher and Alan Wilder’s synthesizers to the mix, and the quartet is pure magic. Yet still, how surprising to to see a picture book on my favorite band in the 80’s and early 90’s! I saw them live in concert when I was fifteen. Note: “Here is the House”, with it’s haunting melody, and simple yet profound lyrics is still one of my favorite songs.

Back to the book...it is a family-friendly version of the history of Depeche Mode. The text and artwork provide an introduction to those not familiar with the band, and will give a few smiles to those who have decades of memories.

[Ryan Lawrence · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fun, creative take on a band bio. The artwork is both whimsical and sophisticated, providing a real synth-pop/new wave 80s feel. It complements the easygoing but detailed text seamlessly. So much fun.

[Andréa]

Note: I accessed a digital review copy of this book through Edelweiss.

[Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A kids book about one of my favorite bands! What could be better!

[Sara · Rating 3 out of 5]

What a fun book with great artwork. I realize it is a kid's book but I wish there had been more information about the band.

[Kristin Vogel-Campbell · Rating 2 out of 5]

I appreciate that there is a children's book written about my favorite band in the world, but the writing didn't catch my attention. There were some awkwardly phrases stuck out a bit. The artwork is lovely though.

[Искандер Булатов · Rating 1 out of 5]

Ну очень коротенькая история группы. Встретились, стали успешными, конец. Да и качество рисунка так себе. Как-то неуважительно даже по отношению к группе...

[Avonlea · Rating 4 out of 5]

WOOOOO GO BRITS GO WOOOOO 🥳