The Fender Stratocaster Handbook by Paul Balmer (2007, Hardcover)

The authors of "The Fender Stratocaster Handbook," Hank Marvin and Paul Balmer, have created an invaluable resource for any individual who owns or is thinking of owning a Fender Stratocaster guitar. In a very readable, picture-rich format, this book gives a concise overview of the Fender Musical Instrument Company, the evolution of the Stratocaster guitar, and a straight-forward description of how to properly care for the instrument. The writing style is crisp, the pictures are incredibly clear and helpful, and the format is suited for either leisurely reading, quick reference, or a how-to guide in Stratocaster maintenance and repair.

Not to diminish the point, but this is, above all, a "how-to guide." Unfortunately, the fact of owning some hand tools and having a deep desire to perform forensic procedures on one's Stratocaster does not a luthier make. As interesting as all aspects of this book happen to be, it is in its avowed how-to mission that the book's ultimate dollar value shines through. The reader is given step-by-step instructions (again, with clear photographs) on how to perform a variety of basic maintenance tasks and more advanced procedures that, indeed, are lutherie. It has been the experience of many Stratocaster owners that enthusiasm and good intentions--without guidance--can be costly.

Although concise in its how-to scenarios, the writing is certainly not sparse and devoid of human interest. There is excellent background information on the influence that many notable individuals--inventors, business people, and musicians--had in the development of this iconic instrument. The authors seamlessly weave fact and anecdote to breathe life into this guitar's creation. This book fills a void in the Stratocaster literature that is currently available. It is a worthwhile reference, and I highly recommend it to you if you have any interest in the Stratocaster guitar; especially, if you enjoy the hands-on experience of doing your own set-ups and associated lutherie. Consider this book written for you if you are a beginning guitarist seeking inspiration, a working musician, a serious collector of stringed instruments, or a student of American cultural history.

If you must own one book which gives a comprehensive portrait of the Stratocaster guitar as, both, an object of inspiration and musician's tool--and will give you the confidence to save time and money in performing quality work on your instrument--this is that book.

Review submitted by
Dr. Jerry Zack, March 2008

Great history of the Fender Stratocaster, including methods for maintaining and adjusting your particular example.

One criticism is the particular collection of examples they use seems like they might not be representative of what most people would have on-hand. Still and all, a very good, entertaining, and useful book. Recommended.

This is a "got-to-have" book for anyone who loves the Fender guitar. The history behind this guitar, set-up, tuning, etc is a must read. You can really appreciate what went into the design of this instrument.

Very comprehensive book on own and caring for your stratocaster. It taught me a lot from evening out fret wear all the way to swapping pick ups. It is a great little reference book if plan on doing any of your own matinence work on your guitar.

This is a very good book that is written well and in plain English. It is easy to understand and has lots of detailed pictures.
The book deals with the history of the instrument, its evolution and gives the reader a wealth of knowledge.
The book also has a great section with all the great Stratocaster players and they way they set up their guitars, whether stock or custom, including Clapton, Buddy Holly, Stevie Ray, Jeff Beck and of course Hendrix.
In addition to the Stratocaster it goes into detail of what countries the guitars where made and different versions like the Telecaster and Squier.