Porter Shreve, writing in People, called Catch a Wave a 'first-rate biography and a compelling social history about a generation's loss of innocence.' In his review in the New York Times Book Review, Bruce Handy noted that the author 'is too scrupulous to ignore more nuanced shadings and contradictions his Wilson is both a victim, too fragile for this world, and a passive-aggressive manipulator, a man who, at times, willfully squandered his talent.' Handy added: 'Carlin tells his story well and sensitively.' A Publishers Weekly contributor wrote that the author 'succeeds in rendering an immediate and often heart-wrenching look at both the psychological abuse and the artistic muse' of Wilson. The author describes how Wilson's father and other band members opposed Wilson over his desire to make a much-anticipated album called Smile, which would be a serious departure from the band's popular 'sound.' (The album was eventually completed nearly four decades later, in 2004.) The author also probes Wilson's psychological problems, fall from the public eye, and reemergence as a recognized master of the pop song. In the biography of Wilson, who composed the Beach Boys' songs and is considered the genius behind the band, Carlin delves into the many triumphs and struggles associated with Wilson's life, from the Beach Boys' overwhelming success in the 1960s to Wilson's battle with his controlling father who served for many years as the band's manager. The book is based on the author's research and interviews with various people, including former band members and Wilson himself. SIDELIGHTS:Ī longtime journalist and television critic, Peter Ames Carlin is also the author of Catch a Wave: The Rise, Fall & Redemption of the Beach Boys' Brian Wilson. Contributor to periodicals, including the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, and Men's Journal. WRITINGS:Ĭatch a Wave: The Rise, Fall & Redemption of the Beach Boys' Brian Wilson, Rodale (Emmaus, PA), 2006.Īlso author of two blogs, one on his home page, and one at the Oregonian. Previously senior writer for People, New York, NY.

Oregonian, Portland, OR, television critic, 2000. Journalist, television critic, and writer. Education: Attended Macalester College Lewis & Clark College, graduated, 1985. Born in Seattle, WA married children: three.

Catch a Wave by Peter Ames Carlin