Rural Roots of Bluegrass - Songs, Stories and History
by Wayne Erbsen

This wonderful book looks at the musical roots of Bluegrass. It explores the people and the traditional music of the Southern mountain country and offers offers a wealth of music. Included are the words and music to 94 songs along with historical notes on each song.

Can't You Hear Me Callin': The Life of Bill Monroe, Father of Bluegrass
by Richard D. Smith

The first published attempt at a comprehensive, critical biography of Bill Monroe.

America's Music - Bluegrass: A History of Bluegrassmusic in the Words of Its Pioneers
by Barry R. Willis

This huge book (631 pages) is a history of Bluegrass music in the words of its pioneers.

Bluegrass: A History (Music in American Life)
by Neil V. Rosenberg

Bluegrass Breakdown - The Making of the Old Southern Sound
by Robert Cantwell

A critical but sometimes densely written look at the Bluegrass sound, its history and musical roots.

Bluegrass: An Informal Guide
by Richard D. Smith

A good introductory book about Bluegrass. Contains a lot of information that a bluegrass newcomer might want to know.

High Lonesome - The Story of Bluegrass Music (DVD)
Directed by Rachel Liebling

A 1991 documentary film which frames its historical survey around Bill Monroe.