More like an easygoing conversation with an old friend than a traditional autobiography, "They Can't Hide Us Anymore" brings Richie Havens close to the reader. One can almost feel the deep resonating timbre that suffuses his music as Havens shares vivid memories of his adolescence in a boisterous but bucolic Brooklyn before ethnicity mattered; early adulthood in the Village when it was THE place to be and his globetrotting journey since those days.

Like his singing, some tales seem cyclic with hints of what is to come, only to be reprised on a later page. Others slowly reveal his many and varied interests beyond the stage - the visual arts, his profound belief in the power of children, and his commitment to safeguard this planet and its inhabitants. Havens' skill as a storyteller serves him well in this thoroughly enjoyable book. Whether a fan from years back or someone just discovering the wandering troubadour, this book will help you know and possibly even understand the man behind the music. Buy it, put on one of his CDs and read. It will be, as Havens is known to say, "Far out!"

This book reveals the inner thoughts of Richie Haven's genius. The stories behind his story, with credits to those individuals who helped shape the true music of the 60's and 70's, are wonderful. One finds that the kindness expressed in Richie Haven's music and wishes for a better world, are those which really exist in his mind and spirit. This is a great book for anyone who grew-up in the 60's, as well as for others who love contemporary folk music and/or Richie Havens...S. Winters

You don't have to read this book to know the author; you only have to hear him perform. But to read his "work in progress" one can only further appreciate his love for people and music. Unlike many autobiographies that seem to be written to promote the author or to set the record straight, this one simply and sincerely reveals the heart and mind of the author as he explores his passion for music. With a childlike innocence, Richie finds goodness in all he touches and everyone he meets; he accepts any setbacks as a part of growth and education and without preaching reminds us how important it is to take time to appreciate our world and our neighbors. At times, it's not clear when a certain event is taking place and one might wish for even more details of Richie's experiences during the "Village Years", but the areas that deal in greater depth are those that are important to Richie and his life. Keep the words and music coming for another thirty years, Richie.