A new book has surfaced about Van Halen. It's about the history, the basics, the little things about them and how others see them. "Van Halen 101", by Abel Sanchez, is a comprehensive guide to the amazing history, music, impact and influence of the "Mighty Van Halen". From the birth of the dutch-born brothers all the way up to the recent 2004 tour, it's all here. Includes a foreword by (Queen's guitarist) Brian May, as well as a tribute to Edward Van Halen by over 100 of the world's greatest musicians.

From Allan Holdsworth and Steve Vai to James Hetfield and Zakk Wylde, all the greats came forward to personally share their thoughts, memories and stories about the man simply known as "King Edward." The book comes in a handy 6" x 9" format and contains 410 pages entirely dedicated to Edward and the band. The cover shot is by legendary rock n' roll photographer Neil Zlozower.

"I liked what I read a lot. This book is a labor of love and all true VH fans will love it" - Alan Paul, Guitar World.

"Van Halen 101" not only covers and discusses Edward Van Halen and the band in great detail, it also features and gives major respect to many differenty players, including Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Allan Holdsworth and Randy Rhoads. The book includes a detailed album-by-album discography, as well as an "FAQ" section, which focuses on and breaks down everything from the elements that make Edward Van Halen a great guitarist to the story of the Frankenstrat to the story of Edward's legendary collaboration with Quincy Jones and Michael Jackson on "Beat It" and the story of "Eruption." Along with much more. There's even a chapter dedicated to "tapping," which explains the history of tapping and includes fresh commentary from such legendary players such as Steve Hackett and Harvey "The Snake" Mandel.

Here go some of the comments made on the book (and included therein):

"Without a doubt, Eddie Van Halen is the greatest guitar player who has ever lived" - Zakk Wylde.

"I always thought Edward was great. He's a fantastic guitar player" - Allan Holdsworth.

"What a wonderful musician... absolutely the pinnacle of guitar playing in our lifetime" - Brian May.

"Edward Van Halen is certainly one of the top innovative virtuosos in history" - Ted Nugent.

"I think Eddie Van Halen is the Godfather of shred guitar. He is 'the one'" - Mark Tremonti.