Surrender: 40 Songs, One Story

Well, not quite. I did have to put it down to take breathers and breaks. Bono is a gifted writer. I found the book to be entertaining and educational for anyone interested in music and world affairs. I also plan to gift this book to a young musician I know.

Great book recommendation from my pastor. After reading it I understand why. Bono and U2 driven by the faith that has translated to songs and service to their fellow man. Bono remarkable story teller!

"Surrender" is anthemic. It's a hymn to the lives and experience of U2's members (both onstage and behind the scenes), and a bit of a love-song to all of them from the band's most forward-facing member. In one of many passages that stirred me deeply, Bono recounts a death-threat that promised he would never finish singing "Pride (In The Name of Love)," and how he bent down to the stage to finish the song, unsure if he'd ever rise again. When he opened his eyes, band-mate Adam Clayton had come to stand in front of him, between him and the audience, the kind of brave solidarity and moral courage that has come to define the band.Bono's book is a bit like his music: free, inventive, poetic, and stirring most of the time, and tedious, preachy and pretentious now and then. And like his music, I find it worth overlooking the weak spots because of the power of the best parts.It's obviously a must-read for die-hard U2 fans; there're recollections of the band's best moments (though I was sorry not to find more mention of sound engineer Joe O'Herlihy, one of the band's unsung geniuses). There are insights into the writing and recording processes.Most of all there's a welcome and profound introspection and inspection of the relationship between Bono's life and experiences and the music. His wife Alison is the backbone of the work, but Bono wisely avoids making her the ghost on every page.There's a certain amount of repetition: themes of Dublin-Irishness, Irishness-Writ-Large, and what it's like to grow up poor in Europe's strange stepchild of Ireland fill pages and pages. But it's attached to a narrow sliver of culture: punk and post-punk culture. It's partly a sociological work about that experience.The book isn't for you if you don't care about such things; but even a lukewarm appreciation of U2 makes the book worth reading as an intersection of spirituality, intellect, and passion, and I'm inclined to think that's not purely a generational thing for people who came of age in the 1980's. It's for anybody who hears in U2's music a spirituality that tries to find broader spaces.Even accounting for Bono's undeniable (and cheerfully admitted) occasional egoism, it's a book that self-diagnoses the problem of ego and charts out a search for an authenticity free from that.

This a great read. Also for me great memories and great songs.

Bono doesn’t give us the salacious details, the book is more naked the real matters of the soul than that. It’s vulnerable work, and entertaining as hell to read.

I am not a "celebrity worshipper", having known many, met many, admire a few but more for their work as many I don't know them personally. In reading "Surrender", without sounding mushy, truth is Bono's sparked an appreciation deep into my artist's soul. I am convinced creative souls (I personally believe we all are in some capacity🕊️) will resonate with the book as well. Bono's gift for writing is so engaging I have a hard time focusing on my own creative business & daily life and my reading time has become very limited but when I am truly captivated by a book such as "Surrender" I carve some time. It's like a teenage crush, ya can't wait to spend time together again, and soon! 💕My youngest brother was into U2 from the very beginning; he exposed me to their music and when they became the huge act they are now, I remember him saying "hope the quality of their music never changes"... I never grew into the Super fan that he is but I must say reading the book I have a completely different perspective and a whole new appreciation for their work and them as individuals. It's one thing to read a review or article in a music magazine or such but when you read first person accounts it colors the perspective tremendously and I have been recommending "Surrender" for fans especially but even just as a great read.Thank you, Bono for sharing your memories with the rest of us.

I loved this book! Bono does an excellent job that chronicles his life well. Throughout each chapter, he reflects on his life in a touring band such as U2 in a heartfelt and genuine manner. I recommend this book to anyone who is looking for an excellent book such as this one! It will inspire and encourage you, the reader!

This book obliterated by expectations, which were high since U2 has been my favorite band since the mid-80s and Bono someone I truly admire beyond his role as U2 lead man. I purchased the book shortly after its release and enjoyed reading it. However, I recently have been listening to the audiobook version which takes it to another level. Simply outstanding! If you are at all interested in this book, do be sure to listen to the audiobook version. Anyway, this book is at times laugh out loud funny, often deep and even poignant, full of wisdom, and other times so tender and touching that my eyes were getting misty. Truly one of the best books I have read (any genre). Thank-you Bono for the painstaking effort that went into this. Would a non-superfan of U2 get as much out of it? Probably not. But the lessons about growing up, faith, and even politics are universal and very current and needed, whether you love U2 or not. But I do love U2 and their music has meant so much to me over the years, and that context certainly adds to the enjoyment of the book and understanding of so many little references that I think you have to know the music to get. So, bottom line, I would recommend this to anyone. But I highly recommend this to anyone who loves U2.

"Bono's 'Surrender'" is an exquisite masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of conventional writing, touching the heart, mind, and soul in ways that are both unexpected and transformative. This deeply moving exploration of life takes readers on a thought-provoking journey that challenges preconceived notions and encourages a paradigm shift in thinking.The beauty of "Surrender" lies not only in its eloquent prose but also in its ability to blend humor and touching moments seamlessly. Bono's writing is a symphony of words, painting vivid imagery that allows readers to immerse themselves in the narrative. His unique storytelling style dances between wit and profound insights, reminding us that life's complexities are best navigated with a touch of levity.What sets "Surrender" apart is its unwavering courage to delve into the most intricate facets of existence. Bono fearlessly explores the nuances of human emotions, relationships, and the ever-evolving nature of our existence. By doing so, he masterfully triggers a cascade of new perspectives, sparking a reevaluation of our own beliefs and priorities.The book's ability to touch the core of human experiences is a testament to Bono's exceptional talent as both a musician and a wordsmith. His exploration of surrender, a concept often misunderstood, is nothing short of revelatory. Through a tapestry of anecdotes, introspections, and life lessons, he unveils the true power that comes from letting go and embracing vulnerability.What truly makes "Surrender" a gem is its universal appeal. Regardless of one's background, age, or beliefs, the book opens doors to uncharted territories of thought. It fosters an atmosphere of open dialogue within oneself, inviting readers to contemplate life's meaning, purpose, and the connections that bind us all.In conclusion, "Bono's 'Surrender'" is a captivating odyssey that leaves an indelible mark on the reader's heart and intellect. It's a beautifully written exploration of life's intricacies, peppered with humor, and charged with an emotional resonance that lingers long after the final page is turned. Bono's gift for storytelling shines brilliantly, offering readers a chance to surrender to the profound wisdom hidden within these pages. This book is not just a read; it's a transformative experience that ignites new ways of thinking about life itself.

Excelente libro y llego muy bien empaquetado.

Boa leitura até agora, não terminei ainda, texto escrito de um jeito diferente pelo próprio Bono. Sincero no que diz, mas uma autobiografia mostra somente um ponto de vista, não é muito independente, podem faltar informações. Há que se considerar isso. Porém não desmerece em nada a obra, pelo menos até onde li.Comprei a versão em inglês porque, infelizmente, as edições brasileiras quase sempre são de qualidade inferior, faltando coisa, com erros de tradução e por aí vai. E nas primeiras edições o risco é maior disso acontecer. Dessa vez não arrisquei e comprei essa edição importada. Se o leitor pode ler em inglês e aceita pagar mais caro por essa versão, recomendo. Com capa dura e papel de qualidade. OBS.: não tive contato com a versão traduzida pro português brasileiro, portanto não posso avaliar. Sugiro pesquisarem bem antes de comprar.

Bono is very honest about himself, his many experiences and his inner world. And, it's very well written. It's a fantastic book.

An extraordinary life, a unique singer, a special person. A tough/funny/smart/clever/revealing/intimate memoir for everyone interested in explosive lives. A story that could turn the reader into a better father, a better friend and... a better salesman 😅. Bono, thanks...