Can someone recommend me a biography of Thelonious Monk?

[cephas]

I recently finished “A Life in Time” on Dave Brubeck, by Philip Clark. It is very good and helped me get a better understanding of Brubeck’s prodigious output. Now I would like to do something similar with Thelonious Monk. Already have a number of his recordings of course, but I want to know more about his work and the it belongs in. Any suggestions?
(If this belongs in the Jazz thread then I trust the moderator will move it over.)

[novadave]

Not a book, but I found the 1988 film documentary ‘Straight, No Chaser’ very good indeed.

[cephas]

As you’re in Canada I believe, like me, it should be available. Was it on Netflix by any chance?

[Skeptikal]

This book is getting great write ups.
Thelonious Monk: The Life and Times of an American Original

[Dynaudio1]

Robin Kelley’s book on Monk is very comprehensive and a good read. Also readily available.

[frenchrooster]

If you read French, there’s that one , written by a well known french pianist:

[cephas]

Thanks! I’ll check it out.

[cephas]

Thanks! Another one to look for!

Edit: I didn’t realize that was the same book you and Skeptikal were suggesting. On order now!

[cephas]

Thanks, but unfortunately, I never came anywhere close to getting good enough at French to read books in the language. I’m sure there are many here who could benefit.

[LaFeuille]

in this case, i can try to listen to L De Wilde album called " New Monk trio"

[Christian]

recommended;

Here the Guardian review

[Nick1940]

Kelley’s book is wordy but a fine summation of his career.

People ask me where do you start with Monk.
I direct them toward

telling them to forget what they think they know about the tunes and just listen x20. Don’t start with Brilliant Corners.

I love the way he rises to the surface to remind you (and perhaps him) of the theme,catches a breath then dives into Monk’s world again.

Wonderful.