The "33⅓" series of books is unusual, in that each of its volumes indulges obsessive fandom — both for the writers and readers — while also providing a solid read for the layman.

AKB48, by Patrick W. Galbraith & Jason G. Karlin.144 pagesFantasma, by Martin Roberts.177 pagesBoth part of the"33⅓Japan" seriesBLOOMSBURY ACADEMIC, Music.

Started in 2003, the collection has seen well over 100 writers dissect and analyze classic albums, from Radiohead's "OK Computer" and R.E.M.'s "Murmur" to Madness' "One Step Beyond" and Miles Davis' "Bitches Brew."