This is an auction for AMAZING GRACE IN AMERICA: OUR SPIRITUAL NATIONAL ANTHEM, by Mary Rourke & Emily Gwathmey.

Amazon.com review:

“Behind our most beloved hymn is a fascinating story spanning continents, cultures, and centuries. Inspired by the way "Amazing Grace" continues to change and grow in popularity, acclaimed music writer Steve Turner embarks on a journey to trace the life of the hymn, from Olney, England, where it was written by former slave trader John Newton, to tiny Plantain Island off the coast of Africa, where Newton was held captive for almost a year, to the Kentucky-Tennessee border and other parts of the South, where the hymn first began to spread. Newton had been rescued from Africa by a merchant ship when, during an eleven-hour storm on the Atlantic, he converted to Christianity. Years later, as a minister, he wrote the hymn for use among his congregation. Through the nineteenth century, "Amazing Grace" appeared in more and more hymn books, and in the twentieth century it rose to a gospel and folk standard before exploding into pop music. It has been recorded by artists as varied as Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Rod Stewart, and Destiny's Child. AMAZING GRACE closely examines this modern history of the hymn through personal interviews with recording artists. From John Newton's incredible life story to the hymn's role in American spirituality and culture, AMAZING GRACE is an illuminating, thorough, and unprecedented musical history.”

More very favourable reviews on Amazon.com.

Large format hardback 1996.

128 pages.

Illustrations throughout.

Very good condition.

The cost of shipping is $4.95, or $6.95 (tracked mail). If you are on rural delivery and want tracked mail, the shipping cost will be $9.95.

There is of course no charge for shipping if you collect this book from my shop in Palmerston North following the auction.

Payment within seven days, please.