Urbana: University of Illinois Press, (1987) dj. SIGNED hardcover first edition - A carefully researched book, which explores the era of the swing bands in Kansas City in the 1920s and 1930s , an era which laid the foundation for modern jazz. It presents the story primarily through the recollections of those who participated in the era - including Mary Lou Williams, Buck Clayton and Buster Smith (whose band included Charlie Parker and Lester Young). INSCRIBED by the author on the half title page and SIGNED as Bill Pearson, dated in 1988. Uncommon signed. Illustrated with photographs. A title in the 'Music in American Life Series.' Chronology, brief biographies, selected discography and bibliography, index. xviii, 252 pp. ISBN: 0-252013360.