The name Ger Rijff and the phrase “quality Elvis Presley book” are synonymous, and Mr Rijff’s latest title “The Rock ‘n’ Roll Years – My Wish Came True” is up to his usual standard. The book is fine collection of ‘50’s photographs and memorabilia including some shots that I hadn’t seen before, and also includes personal documents, press cuttings, and record releases from the time, including foreign releases, promotion records and the rare US armed forces releases. It goes without saying that all the photographs are beautifully reproduced, and the design and lay out are first rate.

There’s also a great accompanying text from the editor of “The Man And His Music” magazine, Trevor Cajiao that collects together anecdotes from performers who worked with, or were influenced by Elvis at the time. Some of these are quite humorous, and in all cases they give a wonderful insight into the time when Elvis changed popular music and popular culture forever. One of my favourites is from rockabilly star Bob Luman, “This cat came out in red pants and a green coat and he stood behind the mike for five minutes before he made a move. Then he hits his guitar lick and he broke two strings. Hell, I’d been playing ten years and hadn’t broken a total of two strings”.

An excellent book, and recommended reading for anyone with a serious interest in rock ‘n’ roll music.