Way Too Fast: An American Reckoning: The Life and Music of Danny DeGennaro

This is a must read! The author has done a superb job of conveying the life of a music prodigy, the many near misses on his journey to obtain stardom in the music business, and the historical significance of his roots from Levittown. Danny DeGennaro’s life was filled with contacts with famous musicians and producers (explained in detail in the book) until his untimely death. The author conveys facts resulting from his exhaustive research (100+ interviews, background information and images) woven with his own story. I am impressed by the author’s format of incorporating the words of the musician’s songs into the text of the book. I couldn’t put this book down!!! It was a walk down memory lane. Hats off to the author for attempting to convey the tribulations and tragedies in an insightful and sensitive way.

This book is so well written about the life of an amazing musician, song writer Danny DeGennaro and the way the writer takes you through history of that period of time, the changes that took place in Levittown and the country as he tried to make it in the music industry. It's depiction of the music industry, especially drug use really give you a real feel for what struggles he went through.

John Farmer nailed it with his descriptions of growing up in Levittown, PA. More importantly he captured the struggles of an amazing talent. Danny DeGennaro possessed something that came naturally to him. I had so many questions while reading the book and each question was answered by the time I reached the end. I have been recommending this book to everyone I can and have gifted it to a few people.

This book is a well-written account of the changes that have taken place in our society as seen through the prism of a great musician who struggled to "make it" in the music business. He had the talent but, like his many friends who saw their lives upended as manufacturing left this county for elsewhere, the music business changed faster than his willingness to conform. A music book about life and a life book about music. If you want an interesting view of how America changed in the 70's and 80's, pick up a copy of Way Too Fast.

Inspiring Book about the life of a musician with extraordinary talent. John Farmer Jr describes how he saved his life with his music. A great read for any music buff!!

I would highly recommend this book. It certainly was about the life and talent of the man but also a history of the times. His death represented so much more than the obvious especially to people who have experienced addiction in their own families. The author through his 7 year exhaustive literary journey, transports the reader back in time. John Farmer captures the man and his extensive lyrical and musical resume. Danny gave a gift to the author during his grief, and John Farmer gives a gift to the reader by sharing this man's story. Danny's gift continues through the foundation and scholarships.

A great read. This book takes readers back to a tumultuous time in our history while telling the story of a man torn between his musical gifts and his demons only to lose his life in a senseless murder! “Way Too Fast” well worth the read!

There's nothing like it.