You Are Beautiful and You Are Alone: The Biography of Nico

A ROUGH TRADE, MOJO, UNCUT & LOUDER THAN WAR BOOK OF THE YEAR

SHORTLISTED FOR THE RALPH J. GLEASON MUSIC BOOK AWARD

A redemptive, myth-shattering biography of one of the twentieth century's most underestimated creative and artistic forces.

'Here is the Odyssey of Nico . . . a scholarly and detailed chronicle of this brilliant artist, who was spurned and tortured for her trouble.' - IGGY POP

'At last, a comprehensive and compelling book about Nico.' - VIV ALBERTINE

'Absorbs from start to finish.' - OBSERVER

The real story of Nico is one of determination, self-destruction, and unwavering belief in one's artistic vision, at any cost. You Are Beautiful and You Are Alone is an empowering reappraisal of an underappreciated icon. Drawing upon new interviews and rare archival material, Bickerdike defies the sexist portrayal of Nico's life as merely the tragedy of a beautiful woman losing her youth and fame. Instead, he cements her legacy as one of the most vital artists of her generation.

'Gripping.' - THE TIMES

'[This] book gets closer to understanding Nico than most.' - GUARDIAN

'Deserves to sit with the great biographies.' - RECORD COLLECTOR

'A compassionate portrait of a musician whose artistry has often been overlooked.' - MOJO