The US standard work on punk and hardcore history The book gives newcomers and connoisseurs a profound insight into the essence of punk, into the "philosophy" behind the movement. Author Craig O'Hara, a precise connoisseur of the scene, deals with questions about the relationship between punk, politics and anarchy, addresses the ambivalent relationship between punks and skinheads, describes the fanzine scene and dedicates a separate chapter to the gender relations in punk. Of course the music is not neglected. Especially the US-American scene, from classics like Black Flag and Minor Threat to the younger hardcore and riot grrrl movement, is presented in detail in sound bites and numerous illustrations.