Detroit was the spawning ground for many of the most irreverent bands, including the politically disenchanted MC5 and the loudmouthed Stooges. What the Stooges lacked in musical talent - though they've been criticized for being able to barely play their instruments, the sound and form of their music would resonate for decades to come - they made up for in sheer passion and a take-no-prisoners attitude. Iggy Pop was probably as well known for cutting himself on the torso as he was for belting out songs. Whatever attracted you to him, you always felt like something different - or insane - was about to happen.

Callwood's book follows the band from their beginnings at the end of the 1960s to their demise in the early '70s, including a reunion in 2003 and what former members are presently doing. He's interviewed all the principals including Iggy, Ron and Scott Asheton, James Williamson, Scott Thurston, Steve Mackay and Mike Watt, and through these lengthy dialogs, the story unfolds.

The band were teenaged friends living in Ann Arbor, Michigan, partying at communal houses and ultimately recording the three albums that would cement their reputation as punk originals: The Stooges; Fun House and Raw Power. Their meeting with David Bowie is chronicled, as well as Iggy's forays as a solo artist.

It's a compelling story that tracks a band instrumental in the development of so many post-punk bands.