Libertyville author’s latest book is a portal to rock ‘n’ roll history
A month into former Vernon Hills resident Mark Plotnick’s retirement, his longtime friend and professional concert photographer Jim Summaria suggested, “Why not pursue our passion for rock music by writing books that combine my extensive portfolio with our shared knowledge and writing abilities and see where it takes us?”
The two have since been on an odyssey that has exceeded expectations beginning with their first book, “Classic Rock — Photographs from Yesterday and Today,” published by Amherst Media. Their latest is “70s Chicagoland Rock Concerts” published by The History Press. For those who were there, this book is an opportunity to relive those moments. For those who weren’t, it’s a portal to rock ‘n’ roll history. Both books are part of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum’s Library and Archives used for education, research and the preservation of rock ‘n’ roll history. Two more books are planned.
Shortly after their 2019 softcover debut, the two were invited to co-host a weekly radio show titled “That Classic Rock Show.” Following a two-year run, the duo focused on book writing and finding a publisher. Renamed “That Rock Show,” the talk, music and interview hour will resume in 2025 following an invitation from the Illinois Rock and Roll Museum on Route 66 to stream the show from the museum’s “Road to Rock” studio. The two have also joined the staff of Chicago Blues Guide contributing concert and CD reviews. Summaria also photographs and writes for Chronicle Media.
From the early 1970s onward, Summaria has professionally photographed rock ‘n’ roll legends in and around Chicago. His photos have been requested by print and web publications, media organizations, prestigious institutions and music acts for CD and album covers.
Plotnick’s corporate career spanned retail, trade publishing, market research and global manufacturing where his writing, research and marketing abilities were essential components of positions held. In 1985, he coauthored “The Smart Money Shopper” and was invited to appear on The Oprah Winfrey Show, a life changing experience.