The Book of ABBA: Melancholy Undercover

"Almost as miraculous as the songs it exists to celebrate," declares Pete Paphides, and Tony Parsons goes even further, proclaiming The Book of ABBA "the only ABBA book that the world will ever need." Caitlin Moran's succinct "Writing perfection on musical perfection: book heaven" perfectly encapsulates the anticipation and satisfaction this biography delivers.

Renowned music journalist Jan Gradvall, through exclusive interviews and over a decade of meticulous research, delves deep into the enduring secrets of ABBA's phenomenal success. Over half a century since their iconic tracks were first recorded, ABBA's music continues to ignite dance floors and inspire heartfelt singalongs across the globe. Gradvall's unique journey began with a rare 2013 interview with all four members – their first joint interview in over thirty years – which then blossomed into unparalleled access for the subsequent decade.

In The Book of ABBA, Agnetha, Björn, Benny, and Anni-Frid share their thoughts and opinions with a level of openness rarely seen before. Alongside these intimate insights, Gradvall expertly reveals the cultural and historical context in which their distinctive sound developed, persuasively arguing that the story of ABBA is inextricably linked to the story of Sweden and the globalisation of pop culture itself.

From their chart-topping comeback album ABBA Voyage – their first in forty years – to the record-breaking, two-million-ticket-selling concert experience of the same name, Gradvall underscores the undeniable truth: in the vast history of pop culture and music, there has simply never been a group quite like ABBA. With remarkable intimacy and insightful analysis, The Book of ABBA brings readers closer than ever before to one of the world's most notoriously private and enduring music icons. This is a definitive and deeply satisfying exploration for any ABBA fan and anyone curious about the magic behind a truly timeless musical phenomenon.