SPILL BOOK REVIEW: MAX KERMAN – TRY HARD: CREATIVE WORK IN PROGRESS

MAX KERMAN – TRY HARD: CREATIVE WORK IN PROGRESS

PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE CANADA

BOOK REVIEW BY JOSEPH MASTEL

Max Kerman is known for being the frontman of Arkells. They are one of Canada’s best working bands today, put on electrifying live shows, and have given us some absolute gems over the years including “11:11”, “Knocking At The Door”, “Leather Jacket”, “People’s Champ”, and “Past Life”. Now, Kerman has decided to put out a book. Kerman’s first book, Try Hard: Creative Work In Progress, is an exciting book that details his life and his time with Arkells and provides some terrific life lessons and informative tips on creativity.

Kerman shares many stories about his childhood, his family, and the history of Arkells, ranging from heartwarming, funny, sincere, and sweet. If you’ve ever been to an Arkells live show, then you will know how excellent of a storyteller Kerman is. This translates perfectly to the written word. Kerman’s personality and voice always shine through in Try Hard in whatever he is talking about. Many of the stories he shares you can easily picture him telling at a live show. This is one of the reasons why Try Hard is such a captivating and engaging read.

Fans will be delighted to learn more about Arkells. Kerman sheds light on the early beginnings of his musical career, what led to the Arkells forming, how some of their hit songs were created, including how the Toronto Raptors winning the NBA championship inspired the song “Years In The Making”. It also provides some behind-the-scenes info on some of their most iconic moments, such as headlining the 2021 Grey Cup Halftime Show, and how watching a Bruce Springsteen concert inspired the way he approaches every Arkells live show, among many other intriguing things.

Try Hard is a very inspiring read, as Kerman offers many insightful tips about creativity and wise words of wisdom about life in general. Some of these things are what Kerman himself has learned along the way, and some things are advice that other people have given to Kerman. Overall, Try Hard is a must-read for anyone who loves Arkells.

ISBN-10: 0735248850
ISBN-13:‎ 978-0735248854

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