U2: The Definitive Biography

by John Jobling

U2 is one of the biggest bands in the world, going strong pretty much from their start in the late '70s with hardly a break in between.  This new biography spans their whole career up until late 2013, so it doesn't cover their controversial Apple-funded release of their newest album.

That said, it's interesting to see how they were received early on, even in their own inner circle: while they had a lot of charisma, they didn't have the chops, not right away.

The book moves at a quick pace.  It's really more of a highlight reel of their career, hitting on the major points and glossing over the cultural changes happening over the years.  Definitely worth a look if you are a fan.  For another, more intimate look at the band, you can also read U2 by U2.