The UC Berkeley Summer Reading List is an annual compilation of recommended (though not required) readings suggested by Cal faculty, staff, and students as a welcome to incoming freshmen and transfer students.
This week we take a closer look at The First Collection of Criticism by a Living Female Rock Critic, Jessica Hopper, New York: Featherproof Books, 2015.
“This book is an excellent compilation of album reviews, artist profiles, and pop culture critiques from Hopper’s years as a music journalist and rock/punk/music aficionado. It’s a great introduction to music criticism that goes beyond star-rated blurbs, and it’s extremely entertaining, following Hopper to festivals and underground clubs and mosh pits alike. Hopper’s writing is both sharp and clearly conveys her passion about her chosen medium, which makes for a great read even if you aren’t necessarily familiar with the subjects (like I was). It’s also super relevant in its “firstness,” as rock criticism is still largely a boy’s club, which becomes a topic that runs throughout her pieces. Overall, a really insightful and interesting read.”
– CAMRYN BELL, Class of 2019
Intended History/Political Science double major
Post contributed by:
Michael Larkin Lecturer, College Writing Programs
Tim Dilworth First Year Coordinator, Library