A book about “Angie”

My dad says he once read a book about a guy who had a bet in a pub that from no knowledge to one year he could learn to play Angie by Burt Jansch. The guy was a journalist and turned it into a book. He even went to learn from the man himself.

Unfortunately my dad can’t remember what it’s called and I’ve tried various google searches based on my minimal information above. Just wondering if anyone has heard of it and if so some more details so I can get it for him.

I mean I’m assuming it wasn’t just a dream of his!!!

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Hello Neil,

Querying ChatGPT gives the following;

The book you are referring to is likely “Guitar Man” by Will Hodgkinson. In this memoir, Hodgkinson, a complete novice at guitar, takes on a challenge to learn to play “Angie” by Bert Jansch within a year. The book details his journey, the people he meets, and the experiences he has along the way as he attempts to master the song. It combines personal anecdotes with broader reflections on music and learning.

Cheers, Shane

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Funnily enough I was just about to reply with the same book. I read it many years ago - it’s a great read.

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Here’s an interesting interview including him and a couple of others:

Fantastic!! Thanks guys! I hadn’t thought of using AI to find it!

Just ordered the last paperback on Amazon uk​:metal: :guitar:

I’ll read it on my cruise as I can’t take the guitar!!