Hospitalised with anorexia nervosa in 1978 at the age of 15, Sparkes weaves together a fascinating account of the issues that led her to question her value and right to life. She articulates the conflict at the heart of her struggle with food and weight and provides a compelling insight into the voices at war within her as her quest for perfection - a self worth living for - becomes increasingly untenable. Emerging from hospital with negligible weight gain and no real insight into her condition, Sparkes travels through non-purging bulimia, binge-eating and a back injury before discovering the self acceptance and inner peace she hungers for. With the benefit of hindsight and the wisdom of a health professional, she comments on the factors that could have propelled her recovery in the 80s, factors relevant for anyone struggling with an eating disorder today. This is a 'number-free' edition of the original and is suitable for any person who would struggle to read a book containing body weight or BMI numbers.

Stan Kenton (1911-1979) formed his first full orchestra in 1940 and soon drew record-breaking crowds to hear and dance to his exciting sound. He continued to tour and record unrelentingly for the next four decades. "Stan Kenton: This Is an Orchestra " sums up the mesmerizing bandleader at the height of his powers, arms waving energetically, his face a study of concentration as he cajoled, coaxed, strained, and obtained the last ounce of energy from every musician under his control.

Michael Sparke's narrative captures that enthusiasm in words: a lucid account of the evolution of the Kenton Sound, and the first book to offer a critical evaluation of the role that Stan played in its creation. Insightful and thought-provoking throughout, and supported by liberal quotes from the musicians who made the magic, even at his most contentious the author's high regard and admiration for his subject shines through. The most knowledgeable of Stan's fans will learn new facts from this far-reaching biography of a man and his music. "Stan Kenton "will be essential reading for every Kenton devotee and jazz historian.