This is a gathering of witticisms from Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards. The author, a fine journalist who has written books on Pink Floyd, Bob Dylan, and the punk movement, has done little more here compile quotes. All 118 pages can be devoured in a couple hours or so.

Here are some samples:

• Discussing his weapons of choice: "You're never alone with a Smith and Wesson."
• On heavy metal: "If you want heavy metal, talk to John Lee Hooker - listen to that motherfucker play. That's heavy metal. That's armor!"
• On having a pre-tour medical: "I've had about three doctors who've told me, 'If you carry on like this, you will be dead in six months.' I went to their funerals."
• On Brian Jones: "Brian was not a likeable guy. He had so many hang-ups he didn't know where to hang himself ... So he drowned himself."