Covering every musical genre from punk to indie, Leslie Simon’s gripping “Wish You Were Here” tests music knowledge.

    This book names some of the US’ most famous cities, Seattle, Chicago and Los Angeles as huge starters of today’s music scene.

Starting with the national capital, Washington D.C, “Wish You Were Here”

gives a great history and description of the city’s start of the hardcore, and emo movement, naming Fugazi and Rights of Spring as two of the bands that started the movement.

    Stylistically, Simon blends facts with opinion. Though quite annoying, Simon knows her stuff, when it comes to scenesters and local band greatness.

    “Wish You Were Here” also covers the looks, and local hot spots of each city mentioned for easy reference when visiting the local scene.

Simon gives an enjoyable read, with loads of pop culture, sure to captivate audiences.

With words like “scenesters”, “freegans” and “spanger,” “Wish You Were Here” will build anyone’s vocabulary.

    For those interested in music, or the history behind it, “Wish You Were Here” is a book that is without a doubt, a must read.