Good Chopin book - recommendation?

[coolpianoman]

I have recently started on the Chopin nocturnes - at least the ones within my grasp with a lot of effort. I love his music and would like to know more about him. My father (long since dead) was Polish too.

My reading is usually limited to fiction and particularly crime although I have read a very few good history books.  I want something which is pretty accessible - I particularly like the stories about a composer and sometimes the letters which can be most revealing.  However I am not looking for a heavy turgid academic read.  Any recommendations? 

Chris 

[chopinlover01]

I like, "Chopin: the man and his music". Warning, the sections about his life in general can be a bit boring to read. However, the sections on his music are relatively accessible, as long as you have a good musical vocabulary. Great read.

[aweshana21]

right now i have the schrimer ultimate piano collection book for chopin