Though the author wasn't able to score any mainline interviews with key players (save for Tommy Shaw), The Grand Delusion is still a worthwhile read owing to all the peripheral research conducted here. By tracking down record company employees, managers, tour personnel, and Styx Mach-II players (Glen Burtnik and Todd Sucherman), Whitaker has managed to assemble a comprehensive and engaging look at one of America's most famous bands.

This book takes you right back to the genesis of the group when Dennis DeYoung met up with the brothers Panozzo, John and Chuck, during the mid-'60s. The importance of "Lady" is discussed and the evolution of the band tracked during a period that saw them recording consecutive multi-platinum albums and ultimately falling apart due to musical and personal differences.

In the mid-'90s, the group reformed, and much attention is paid to the warring factions as represented by original members Tommy Shaw, Dennis DeYoung, and J.Y. Young (again, only Shaw is interviewed). Carrying this a step further, Whitaker follows the development of various solo careers (for better and worse).

Don't confuse this with Chuck Panozzo's The Grand Illusion book. He tells the tale strictly from his point of view; this one provides a panoramic overview.