Through thirty-one songs that he either loves or has loved, Nick Hornby tells us what music means to his life. Theses personal and passionate pieces – refreshingly free of pretension – are a celebration of the joy that certain songs have given him. Together with additional writings on music from his column in the New Yorker – seen in the UK for the first time – 31 Songs is for Hornby what many of us have always wanted a soundtrack to accompany life. 'A singular and delightfully passionate book . . . A kind of prose equivalent of a mix-tape.' New York Times 'Funny, provocative, immensely readable. It is not simply about music . . . it is about Hornby, and us, and about bring alive. His enthusiasm is such that he makes me want to be a better listener – and I can offer no better compliment. A triumph.' Tim Lott, Evening Standard 'Smart, entertaining and moving. A manifesto on why pop is so glorious, beautiful and important.' Sunday Express 'Refreshing, candid, very moving. Reminds you why you loved music before you knew enough to explain your love away.' Uncut