Patti Smith’s unique fusing of Rimbaud and Beat-inspired poetry to the shamanic energy of rock & roll culminated in her first record, Horses (Arista, $9.98), released in 1975, with a beautiful cover photo by Robert Mapplethorpe. Her beautifully written memoir of her years as an emerging artist, Just Kids (Ecco, $27), is an inspiring tale told with tenderness, grace, wit, and vulnerability. It’s also a dual portrait of Patti and of Robert—her serendipitous protector, lover, collaborator, and lifelong friend—in a long-lost bohemian New York of the late 1960s and early 1970s. The book features memorable appearances by Sam Shepard, Gregory Corso, Harry Smith, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and many other heroes, mentors, friends, and supporters. Just Kids is the perfect gift for present and future poets, musicians, and artists of all kinds, and describes the vision, will, and tenacity that is needed to succeed.