Arts and Culture Books


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Arts and Culture Books sorted by Average customer review: high to low .

Arts and Culture
Passport to World Band Radio, 2008 Edition (Passport to World Band Radio)
Published in Paperback by International Broadcasting Services (2007-12-25)
Author: Lawrence Magne
List price: $22.95
New price: $9.98
Used price: $14.69

Average review score:

Essential Tool for Shortwave Radio Listeners
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-26
I have used Passport for almost twenty years now. Before the internet it was the best way (and only practical way) to keep track of schedules and frequencies and still is since my PC can't be everywhere my radio is. It also is a great resource if you are shopping for a shortwave radio as all major sets in all quality and price ranges are reviewed. There is also alot of general information for shortwave listening and information on future trends. No world band listener should be without the most current version of this book.

You won't regret it. BUY IT, BUY IT, BUY IT!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-20
This is a must own for any shortwave listener, form newbies, to professionals. I've barely scratched the surface of all this book has to offer. My Favorite feature is the "blue pages". The blue pages have frequencies down the side, and times along the top, you just find the frequency you're listening to and intersect it with the time, and you've got the station you're listening to.

Shortwave Radio, SWL, must have
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-15
This is a reference/text/fun/must have every year book, for all shortwave radio listeners and alike. It does a wonderful job in all areas of SWL. It provides info on radio selection, all types. New and up-to-date stations,
frequencies, countries of origin, time of broadcast, xref. frequencies to stations and times. Interesting ads. You need this book the whole year. It uses high grade paper(its heavy too), has articles on countries, people, stations, things of interest, pictures in many categories. This book is quality cover to cover. Useful for an entire year, and parts of it forever.
Is that a great book or what!
Extremely Recommended !!!

As Good as it gets
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-06
As a new world band radio listener this book is my guide and guru. I live in a rural area and have no neighbors that are interested in world band so I use it as one of my major resources. Coupled with information from the world wide web one can get a start as a listener and have fun listening to what is happening in the world and see how others view the same news event.

A GREAT BUY!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2008-07-01
For all the information here, I can't believe this book didn't cost twice as much! Reviews, radio listings, a glossary of terms, etc. Passport to World Band Radio, 2008 really expanded my radio experience by opening my eyes up and tuning my ears into what all else is out there!

Arts and Culture
Saving Private Ryan
Published in Hardcover by Newmarket Press (1998-07-24)
Author: Steven Speilberg
List price: $34.95
New price: $9.50
Used price: $0.32

Average review score:

Eh..............Saving Private Ryan
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2002-03-12
This Movie Is Great It Has The MG-42 Bullets Going Right Through The Water On The Beach.The Blood,Gore,Gun Realism Is Great.It Also Is A Heart Touching Movie.The Action Is Great,The Guns,The Cool Guys,And The Nazis....

Eh......SPR
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2002-03-12
This Movie Is Great It Has The MG-42 Bullets Going Right Through The Water On The Beach.The Blood,Gore,Gun Realism Is Great.It Also Is A Heart Touching Movie.The Action Is Great,The Guns,The Cool Guys,And The Nazis.If You Like SPR(Saving Private Ryan)Than Play The Game MoH:AA(Medal Of Honor:Allied Assault)For PC It Has The Same Weapons And The Same Missions Like The Real WWII.Good Luck

"But if we could do just one good thing . . . "
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2004-04-04
I think Spielberg's a genius. There, I've said it. He takes simple men, surely John Miller, Captain, 2nd Ranger Battalion is just that, a simple man, and paints a canvas of such detail of Armageddon, putting these simple men all over the painting. Hell. The end of the world. Good versus evil. Call it what you may. "I'm a history teacher," he says in the movie in one extraordinarily tense scene. "I teach history in a small high school in Pennsylvania. . . .when I'm done here I don't know if I can go back to it."

I'm reminded of another 'simple man' that came from Pennsylvania in novel lore. Lieutenant Harry Brubaker, the lawyer who flies F-9 Panther Jets in Michner's brief story about the carnage in Korea, 'Bridges at To Ko Ri.'

But the point is Spielberg tells us that they were all simple men and we don't believe him at first. We keep looking for Arnie Schwarznegger or Chuck Norris or The Rock. But they are and were normal guys, guys from Brooklyn New York and Brooklyn Michigan. Guys from towns you never heard of in Iowa, where Jimmy Ryan and his brothers came from. Just guys in the greatest carnage the world ever knew. And Spielberg shows us what they did. They changed the world.

The five Sullivan brothers all went down with their ship in the middle of the war and after that the powers that be would not commit one brother in a theater of combat where another brother was also serving in harm's way. So here, one of Jimmy Ryan's brothers is killed in the Pacific and one brother is killed in Anzio Beach. And Sean Ryan is killed in the landing at Omaha Beach. And Captain John Miller and a squad of men he picks are asked to find him to send him home.

A wonderful book to compliment a movie that should be preserved forever about an ubelievable body of men and women. "Was I a good man," asks James Ryan 50 years later? My Dad asked me the same question a few years ago. Five stars is not enough. Larry Scantlebury.

this is a very good story
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 1999-07-21
I think this story is a very good story it really shows how the war really whent. my favrit character in this story was mellish well i'v seen the movie and i think he is the cutest i also like capazo he was really cool i think uhpum was a bit of a wimp but apart from that i think it was really cool.If i was to give this movie/book a raiting out of 100 i would give it 100 becaust it is so good.

Very interesting
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 1999-07-24
Saving Private Ryan and The Triumph and the Glory have sparked an interest in me about WWII. The novel isn't quite as good as the movie but anyway this book is a great behind the scenes look at the making of a terrific movie.

Arts and Culture
Screening Party
Published in Audio CD by Fluid Words (2002-09)
Author: Dennis Hensley
List price: $24.95
New price: $31.10
Used price: $24.99

Average review score:

A funfest!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2005-04-04
Back in college, a devoted group of soap watchers gathered in the student center every day to keep up with life in Salem. None of us knew each other outside that TV room, but for one hour a day, five days a week, we were united in our running commentary of crazy plots, acting that ranged from barely there to over the top, fashion don'ts, and Alice's donuts. Anyone stumbling in might have thought we hated the show, but no demand of college could keep us away from it.

Screening Party reminds me of that, only better, because Hensley's (based on life?) movie viewers are friends. Their lives become little subplots to the movies they watch and comment on. It all makes for a greatly entertaining read. I've read it cover to cover once, and I keep it handy to dip into when I want a quick read during lunch or something. I can always count on it to make me laugh.

Funniest book I have read in a Loooong while!
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2004-01-12
This book is GREAT. I had this book purchased for me in July 2003. I was out for drinks with my brother and his partner ( who bought it for me) and they casually asked had I read it yet...I lied and said "yeah of course. Good book." They looked at each other, then back at me and said simply. "Liar"

This provoked me to get the book out of the pile next to the bed labeled "mean to read" and skim through it. By page 2 I was in tears. Mr. hensley made me crack up REALLY LOL. Like before LOL existed, this is what I did..so much so that my husband asked me to READ TO HIM what was making me crack up to this extent. (Shoot me now. He NEVER has done that before) Well, we continued to laugh till well into the am. hours.

I highly recommend this book. Hillarious and the BEST if you are one of those who like to sit and "bag" on things. Bravo Mr Hensley! Great book!

Jodi Wallace

Witty & well written
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2003-05-29
Dennis Hensley and his gaggle of five chums crack wise to earn your giggles in what is one of the more original and better written movie books I've read. Decidedly not a traditional film review or guide, Screening Party seamlessly integrates hilarious commentary from Hensley's peanut gallery with poignant, often surprisingly touching storytelling about the lives of those in said peanut gallery. The contemporary campfests you might expect are covered (e.g., Basic Instinct, The Bodyguard, Glitter, & Flashdance), but also included are some unexpected gems (e.g., The Sound of Music and Taxi Driver). While the banter is always funny but not always totally original, this is actually the point: you will find yourself laughing out loud at times, reliving the magic of Sharon Stone's infamous legs uncrossing scene and your reaction to it the first time you saw it. The gang's commentary is as witty as you wish yours had been, and, thanks to Hensley, retold faithfully and skillfully.

If you are looking for a collection of serious film reviews, then look elsewhere. If you are looking for a great way to spend an evening or a lazy afternoon (because you will not be able to put down this book), then make some baked goods a la one Partygoer and join the Party.

HILARIOUS!
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2006-03-27
great fun. if you're not rolling on the floor with laughter when you read this your first name is ebenezer. several friends get together and critique movies. no one is spared when they carve up such cinematic masterpieces as st. elmo's fire, the bodyguard, glitter, basic instinct, pretty woman [ I don't understand julia roberts popularity, eric got the talent gene, imo ], my favorite is the chapter on the movie cruising.

A movie-buff must
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2005-03-23
Screening Party is a witty, saucy book that will get you laughing. Obviously, Hensley has distilled the most brilliant and effervescent remarks from his real-life screening parties for this story. These funny characters do more than just crack Sedarisque lines about movies; you see the changes in their lives as the story progresses.

This is a calculated mix of movie commentary and storyline, though more oriented for those who want the cultural analysis rather than the story. It's an especially vivid snapshot of mid-70s to early 80s pop culture. Even movies you thought were great get roasted via the sass-spatula from these wacky grillers.

Arts and Culture
The Sopranos: A Family History
Published in Paperback by NAL Trade (2001-09-01)
Author: Allen Rucker
List price: $20.00
New price: $5.44
Used price: $0.81
Collectible price: $95.00

Average review score:

Unbelievable. Will tide you over until 4th Season
Helpful Votes: 5 out of 6 total.
Review Date: 2001-12-28
I have been wanting this book since it came out a year or so ago. It did NOT disappoint. There is so much in this book that doesn't come from the show. I remember writing a thesis on this show in college, stating that the website actually becomes a supplement to the show and by doing this, it actually pulls the viewer into the show, breaking the fourth wall. This book does that times two. Are the Sopranos based on actual people? Is it truth or fiction? By the time you get done reading this, you won't care. This is a must read.

Stellar, witty, and a great read
Helpful Votes: 6 out of 8 total.
Review Date: 2001-11-06
A stellar examination of the past, present, and portents of "The Sopranos"! Wow! From the die-hard Soprano fans to all those interested schlumps, this book is the must-read needed on their bookself. An entertaining, voyeuristic, and compassionate look at the Sopranos' lives that mix reality and myth into a remarkable anthology of today's most famous mobster family. The show earned its Emmys and then some; the book compliments the show with its photos and commentary on what will become the most talked about series for years to come. In my opinion, there are only a handful of shows that truly deserve such an in-depth perspective as this one does- and this one hits the mark! Two enthusiastic thumbs up and a congratulations going toward the talented and witty writer, Allen Rucker, the only one who made this fantastic book possible for all Soprano aficionados to thoroughly enjoy. Rucker brings an unique standpoint to the Sopranos' family and lifestyle that I never knew existed. I hope he writes the next updated version! If not, "I have friends, you know!"

It makes you feel like one of the Family!
Helpful Votes: 7 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2002-11-26
I loved this book. I poured over it so many times that I have just about worn it out. It has been like a Bible of sorts to me. Very interesting. Anyone who is a true Sopranoholic like I am will love this book. I just wish they would make an updated version of it. I am going to be so sorry to see the season end and just thinking about the series ending is too much for me to comprehend.

Think of this book as one big Soprano History/Dictionary/Vocabulary book and that is what you can expect. Worth every cent.

Soprano Bible
Helpful Votes: 7 out of 7 total.
Review Date: 2002-08-27
Great book to have if you are a die hard Soprano fan like myself. Gives you great insights on the Soprano family tree and it also gives Soprano fans a guide on things that you might have missed out on. Overall, a excellent book! Don't keep this book too far away when you're watching the show because it comes in handy

A Fortuitous Discovery
Helpful Votes: 8 out of 15 total.
Review Date: 2001-11-06
I'm a big Opera fan, and my grandmother bought me this book because she thought it was about great Italian singers. You can imagine my disappointment when I realized this book was about the characters from a TV show focusing on the Mafia. I don't have a TV, so I'd never seen the "Sopranos" show. Reading about something I had no knowledge of, or interest in, seemed dumb at first, but I had the book so I thought "What the heck! I'll read it". Once I started, I couldn't put it down. It is a very entertaining read, and I would recommend it to anyone, even people with no TVs like me, who enjoy a fun book. Highly Recommended! (Note: I have since seen the show at a friend's house, and frankly I must say I liked the book better than the progam.)

Arts and Culture
Collected Sandman Covers, 1989-1997
Published in Paperback by Watson-Guptill (1998-08)
Authors: Neil Gaiman and Dave McKean
List price: $24.95
New price: $79.98
Used price: $13.88

Average review score:

Not Just for Comic Book Fans
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-07-13
This book is recommended for all art fans--you don't need to be familiar with the Sandman character to enjoy McKean's gorgeous covers. The commentary is also very interesting, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the thought process behind many of the works. McKean progresses from producing physical pieces of art to digital manipulations as the series progressed, and although some of his initial digital effects are now dated, it's still fascinating to see a modern master at work.

difference btwn 2 versions?
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-03-23
is there any difference between the Watson-Guptill edition and the Vertigo edition? i noticed one says '1989-1996' while the other says '1989-1997', the size also seems to be differnt, althogh the page numbers are both 208. what i want to know is, is there any difference as far as the artworks go inside? and if so, which is the better one? (one's also more price than the other, it seems).

Modern Day Masterpieces
Helpful Votes: 2 out of 2 total.
Review Date: 2005-09-26
I bought this book as a gift for a Friend, I was familiar with McKeans art from the comics and she had recently gotten into his work... So i thought it'd make a good gift.

It was a great gift! I looked through the book thoroughly myself and was amazed at not just the artwork but the presentation of it throughout. McKean and Neil Gaiman's Commentry and Notes throughout are both Fascinating and sometimes hilarious. (Ah the Fish...)

I'm gonna pick up a copy for myself, as this really is an Amazing book... ArtFans or ComicFans alike will appreciate just how Beautiful Mckeans Art is.

Absolutely magical!
Helpful Votes: 8 out of 8 total.
Review Date: 2005-09-04
I don't know why I haven't gotten around to reviewing this collection of work before, but it is amazing! As the title suggests, it is the collected covers of the Sandman comic book series that ran from 1989-1996. There are no Sandman stories in here, just the collected covers of all the issues and some commentary on the covers and The Sandman series by Neil Gaiman himself.

"Just." I love this book. It's "Art" with a capital "A." So many different styles, forms, and moods. It's beauty and magic captured on paper. It calls to mind art as diverse Edward Gorey, Salvadore Dali, the movies of Tim Burtn, and on one startling cover even H.R. Geiger (in a non-Aliens way).

The introduction is very nice too.

I recommend this for any fan of the Sandman series.

Creepy, amazing, and with a behind the scenes peak.
Helpful Votes: 8 out of 9 total.
Review Date: 2003-12-30
When I had collected the original Sandman issues, I was always intrigued by the cover art as well as the story and illustrations inside. Sometimes, I would find myself staring at the covers for minutes before reading the actual story. This was the only time I had ever really done that. And now you can own this book full of those intricate, detailed, and amazing art pieces, along with commentary by McKean and Gaiman.

And there's a Sandman story that I have never read before! If you're a Sandman fan, buy this book.

Arts and Culture
The Complete Films Of Vincent Price (Citadel Film)
Published in Paperback by Citadel (2000-06-01)
Author: Lucy Chase Williams
List price: $24.95
New price: $42.50
Used price: $6.95

Average review score:

The Price Club
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2006-04-03
Lucy Chase Williams, where are you? Have you written any oher books besides this splendid tribute to Vincent Price?

OK, maybe you were a little harsh on BACKTRACK, but I admit it is not a film for everybody. Jodie Foster was in her adventurous period then, and making a film by Dennis Hopper was probably a mistake, but give her credit for trying something different! As for Price, he is terrific in the movie, and the whole thing is defnitely a more worthy picture than many which you,
But in the main what can I say, you've done an excellent job, not only interviewing the obvious co-stars and producers, but also some obscure ones. I was thrilled to find an interview with the late Alexander Knox in your book. Knox, who played WILSON in the eponymous 1944 Fox historical epic, gave this interview only a few days before his own death, and reading his words gives the avid reader a new insight into the way Vincent Price saw his own function as an actor, an entertainer, and a man of public policy. I wonder if it's true that Price was a victim of blacklisting; certainly his career changes radically during the McCarthy Era and when it was over, he was firmly typecast in a series of profitable, some very successful artistically almost in spite of himself, B pictures. Did he regret going the horror route? You could never really tell. This book dips a little into Price's resentment at the way Sears ruined his credibility as a collector and art historian.

The book makes us long for the release of more of Price's 1940s films on DVD! How about MOSS ROSE or THE WEB or THE EVE OF ST MARK

The photos are unbelievable, especially the bare-shouldered, long-haired beefcake shot that begins the book (London, 1935, with a pervert behind the camera) or the December 1964 shot in which Elsa Lanchester, Vampira, and Carroll Borland pose with Price at the opening of THE TOMB OF LIGEIA. All these different generations of horror stars frozen forever in one frame: it's like a white version of A GREAT DAY IN HARLEM.

The Complete Films - And More!
Helpful Votes: 12 out of 13 total.
Review Date: 2002-06-13
The first part of this coffee-table sized book gives an overview of Vincent Price's life, as well as his career. Obviously not a believer in reincarnation, this section concludes with a quote from Vincent Price himself. "You only get one time around, so why waste a minute of this glorious life?" The remainder of this book discusses every feature film connected with Vincent Price, whether he was the star, co-star, narrator, had a brief cameo or did the voice of an animated character. All 100 entries give the release date of the film, the film studio that made the picture, the running time, whether it was filmed in black and white or color, the cast, the director, the producer, the writer, etc. The next section gives a synopsis of the plot, sometimes followed by quotes from the man himself or other actors appearing in the film, and all concluding with contemporary reviews of the movie. Each entry has at least one photo from the actual film or a candid picture taken on the film set or, at the very least, the accompanying movie poster. Two things struck me while reading this book. One, Vincent Price was a versatile actor who excelled in every genre of film he appeared in, not just horror movies. Two, every actor quoted mentioned his wicked sense of humor, how great he was to get along with, and his professionalism. Of the latter, Gregory Peck summed it up best. "You get a bad piece of material, you do everything you can to improve it...That's what you're supposed to do. That's what Vincent did. I'm sure that he never, in his life, phoned it in, so to speak, or did less than his utmost best..." If you're looking for a book that dishes dirt and recounts gossip, look elsewhere. If you're looking for a comprehensive book of all of Vincent Price's movies, look no further.

"Priceless" Pictures from an Actor's Life
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2002-08-15
Forget the biographical portion of this book - it's short and general, though sufficient to the purpose of what this volume really is, which is a celebration of Price's life and films.

What sells this book is the pictures. Gorgeous stills from all of Price's movies - and quite a few from his life and stage plays, as well - plentifully stuff this beautiful coffee-table offering, on every page. Each film is discussed briefly, along with notes on its place in Price's life and ouevre, and accompanied by comments from his directors, producers and co-stars, and even Price, himself. Each picture is worth a thousand words, and some of them are really remarkable - for instance, cartoon cells from characters Price voiced for Disney studios and Miramax (The Great Mouse Detective and Arabian Knight) and Hanna-Barbera's The 13 Ghosts of Scooby Doo. There are photos of him with famous seemingly unlikely latter-day admirers, like Alice Cooper. Caricatures and print-ads abound, such as Price selling Tuaca liqueur and Emba minks. Even his image on a long-forgotten Milton Bradley "Shrunken Head Apple Sculpture" kit is on display.

If you're a fan, or looking for a Christmas or birthday present for someone who is, you just couldn't beat the bargain of this book at twice the "price"!

Lots of lovely...photos!
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 4 total.
Review Date: 2002-06-05
I can hear that silly associate of Patsy Stone's of ABFAB saying "lots of lovely...photos," and besides being a great filmography of Price's work, this book features a host of visuals that aren't the run-of-the-mill variety publicity shots you're likely to find elsewhere. Nice quips from Price himself and colleagues about his films, life, and art-collecting. A great reference for the shelf. Wholly recommended.

the complete FEATURE films of Vincent Price
Helpful Votes: 4 out of 5 total.
Review Date: 2004-03-14
on page 252-253 there's a great picture of Price, Christopher Lee, Peter Cushing, and John Carradine in 1983 during a photo session for the film "House of the Long Shadows", a movie that i like {however, i hate the character that Arnaz, Jr. played because of his cynicism and lack of respect for traditional horror}. the pictures, incidentally, make up for the lack of coverage of Vincent's other careers! there's pictures of his cartoon characters from Disney and Hanna-Barbera. there's posters for the "Butterfly Ball" project plus numerous print ads for products that appeared in magazines. a picture of him with Alice Cooper is also shown! the rest of this book highlights all 100 of Vincent's FEATURE films, which are anything that is shown in movie theatres. i think the book is great! seeing the pictures and movie posters are like walking through time...i wouldn't have added any negative criticism about the movies because it dampens the mood of the book, which is to be a celebration of his career in movies...but there are several harsh criticisms of his films from critics and Vincent himself, who himself was a critic: of art! the book also contains Vincent's now-legendary comments on his own profession just after wrapping up the 1987-released film "The Offspring". in brief, Price announces that he's tired and bored talking about horror films. it's then explained that the film he just finished maybe caused him to be a bit testy with the reporter. Price had realized after his scenes were complete that the producers/director were filming extreme gore and slasher elements to be aired around his narrative parts and it made him furious that his name and image would be grouped with that TYPE of film once again {1984's "Bloodbath at the House of Death" was pretty gory and Price's appearance clashes with the sadistic storyline}. "The Offspring" was a Tales From the Crypt meets Twilight Zone anthology in which Price plays a town historian in rural Oldfield. a picture from that film (a shot of Price at a desk) is here. GET this book!!!

Arts and Culture
Follow the Music: The Life and High Times of Elektra Records in the Great Years of American Pop Culture
Published in Paperback by Jawbone Press (2000-08-30)
Authors: Jac Holzman and Gavan Daws
List price: $18.95
New price: $11.49
Used price: $11.34
Collectible price: $125.45

Average review score:

A great read about the little record company that could
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-03-30
I bought this book for the CD. Most of the Elektra catalog is out of print and was never re-released on CD. The CD is great, though I would have liked more international folk music. There's only one foreign language song on the disc. The book itself turned out to be a very pleasant surprise. While I am only about one fifth of the way through it, I'm finding the story of Elektra Records fascinating. I didn't realize (or, more likely had forgotten - you know what they say about the 60s) how many big names in rock got their start there. A great read about the little record company that could.

great book
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-21
Great book for those that enjoy the inner workings of a record label,its history and the people that made it happen.If you dig musicology this book is a must read.

Simply the best
Helpful Votes: 1 out of 1 total.
Review Date: 2006-07-20
I have read my share of music industry books and this is by far the best one. And what is inspiring is that you do can make good business in this industry and still keep your integrity, just follow Jac Holzmann's example describe in this book. Awesome read!

Top Shelf
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2006-06-27
One of the best books on the music industry I have ever read. When you read a book about a band or artist, or about an era in music or whatever, what you mostly want is to feel like you were there at the time these people were recording and gigging and just being bands. Follow the Music gives you a first-class seat in Elektra's offices, at its artists' concerts, in rehearsal spaces, in restaurants where biz wheeling and dealing is done . . . You come away knowing Jac Holzman underpaid his staffers and artists, but that he genuinely cared about the quality of music his label put out, and about artists' integrity. I wish there had been as much on Arthur Lee and Love as there is on the Doors, but then the Doors were Elektra's biggest-selling act, so I guess it makes sense that they get the most ink in the book. I also didn't like the way the sections on the MC5 and the Stooges - two of the most important bands in the history of rock - are so short, while the one on Carly Simon is so long. But that's because I like the MC5, love the Stooges and wish Carly Simon would go away. But these are quibbles. I loved the book. How much did I love the book? I don't even like the Doors, save for 5 or 6 of their songs, yet I drank in every word about them, and went back and listened to their debut and L.A. Woman because the chapters on those two albums were so moving.

Worth the price for the CD!
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2006-05-08
This is a must read for music fans! There is something for nearly everyone here: The story of the founding and growth of Elektra Records (how an energetic young man, Jac Holzman, with a few hundred dollars, good musical taste and a ton of ideas could actually start a thriving record company). The history of many early folk music performers such as Theodore Bikel, Judy Collins, Jean Richie and many others. The story of the creation of Nonesuch Records (a low-cost Classical division). The history of many Rock performers (including Jim Morrison of the Doors). There is even enough technical info about early recording, studio design and Dolby units to satisfy a tech geek (such as myself)! The image conjured up of a young Holzman setting out with a Magnacord P-6 recorder strapped to his Vespa scooter, to record folk music performances in NYC really conveys the "shoestring" attributes of Elektra Records in the early days. At the other end of the scale, the design of studio "B" was perhaps representative of the "excesses " of the rock era.

The copy of this book that I got from Amazon included a "bonus" CD that contains many tracks of early Ekektra performers that have not been re-released on CD. To me, this CD was worth the price & the book was essentially "free"!

It is sad that only a few recordings from the early Elektra "folk period" have been re-issued on CD. This situation is starting to improve, (see my other reviews for some early Elektra folk "gems" that I have found on CD).

Arts and Culture
Gil Elvgren: All His Glamorous American Pin-Ups (Jumbo)
Published in Hardcover by Taschen (2000-03)
Authors: Charles G. Martignette and Louis K. Meisel
List price: $39.99
New price: $99.70
Used price: $69.98

Average review score:

Interesting Book
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-07-19
I'm still studying and reading through it, but it has an interesting magic that's missing in many of today's similar subjects - innocence.

The product is just as gorgeous as the subject matter!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-07-15
This book is absolutely beautiful. Lots and lots of color - designed and bound very well. Worth every penny and then some. Impressed with Amazon's service (my first order) and the whole shopping/purchase experience here.

great quality, great value, great buy!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-07-12
I highly recommend this to anyone with an interest in Elvgren or pin-ups. Beautiful picture quality, comprehensive collection. For the money, you can't get much better than this!

WOW
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-05-30
Elvgren is a master of his art. This book truly is a gem at this price. If you love pinup art he is the master. Its a slice of days gone past and pretty girls to write home about. Elvgren will live on forever. Take a piece of history home.

Gorgeous book.
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-04-29
If you love this era of art, this is a beauty. Great coffee table book to spark conversation.

Arts and Culture
Here's Johnny: Thirty Years of Americas Favorite Late Night Entertainer
Published in Paperback by Cumberland House Publishing (2002-08-15)
Author: Stephen Cox
List price: $18.95
New price: $4.28
Used price: $3.18

Average review score:

Perfect gift for a Carson fan
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-01-19
This book was given as a gift to a Carson fan. It was very well received and we felt we had given the perfect gift.

What a treat!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-06-10
For those of us who grew up with Johnny Carson it's hard to believe that it has been fifteen years since Johnny last came out from behind "The Tonight Show" curtain and even harder to accept the fact that he is no longer with us. But we're in luck in one way....this wonderful book, compiled by Stephen Cox, brings Johnny back to life in the most comprehensive and nostalgic way. It's a walk down Memory Lane and it is nothing short of wonderful.

From the inception of "The Tonight Show" and its early years before Johnny, Cox takes us through every segment of the thirty-year run we all enjoyed. There are comedians, of course, memorable moments, the monologue and my favorite...Joan Embery and her wildlife companions from the San Diego Zoo. Who of my generation can forget the wedding of Tiny Tim and "Miss Vicki" or the Ed Ames tomahawk throw? (the latter being a perennial favorite of the Carson annual retrospectives)

What is such an added bonus to the book are the dozens of photos that grace its pages. "Here's Johnny!" is a terrific look back at a man who made the nation laugh for three decades and who will always be remembered as the best at what he did. Thank you, Johnny!

Here's Johnny: Thirty Years of Americas Favorite Late Night Entertainer
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2007-04-11
If you want to know about Johnny Carson and the things that went on behind the scenes at the Tonight Show, you need to get this book!!! It was great and the photos were wonderful.

carson book
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2006-03-11
Excellent read. For any fan of Johnny Carson and the glory days of the Tonight Show, this is the book for you. It makes you feel like you're actually watching the show again. Enjoyed it thoroughly!

Johnny Has Left the Building, but Not our Hearts
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2006-02-21
Johnny Carson was the late night entertainer of my youth and there will never be anyone to compare - although Conan is great in his own right(that will be another review sometime). This book really takes you back. While I do not know all the "for-sure details"(and some things could be slightly off in this book since I don't keep track of that so much), there is enough substance here to take you right back to watching Johnny in your parents' living room! Like the "Clapper Caper" with Jack Webb. LOVED IT!

Arts and Culture
How to Survive a Horror Movie: All the Skills to Dodge the Kills
Published in Paperback by Quirk Books (2007-05-31)
Author: Seth Grahame-Smith
List price: $14.95
New price: $5.75
Used price: $11.76

Average review score:

Comical & Entertaining
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-07-05
I have to hand it to the author, he certainly knows his horror movies. This book was fun to read; very entertaining and brought back a lot of memories about many of the horror movies I'd seen. If you want some light, funny, laugh out loud reading, this is a great book to read. I'm still boggled by the author's knowledge! Fun read!

The perfect gift book
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-07-01
As the senior reporter and reviewer for horror dot com, I have seen *a lot* of genre spoofs in my time; but I must say, this book is not only a must-have keeper for any horror fan's library, it's a great gift for friends. I bought a dozen copies. Seriously. (And because of that, I'm doubly-doomed -- wait till you read the part about "how you got this book" ... it's hysterical!) In addition to being just a plain funny (and nicely illustrated) book, the foreword by Wes Craven is worth the price alone.

Now I can survive a horror movie!
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-25
haha, what's funny is a few days before I found this book on here I finished my list of "101 Helpful Hints to Survive a Horror Movie". This book added a lot of ideas to what will be on my 2nd list!

This books is awesome! Just to put it shortly. You learn helpful hints and skills to survive everything from a living doll to zombies! Fun read that will send horror movie lovers over the edge. Don't hesitate to get!

One of the best books I own.
Helpful Votes: 0 out of 0 total.
Review Date: 2008-02-21
Best book I have ever read. First there was the Horror movie survival guide now take it one step further and you have the amazing How to Survive a Horror Movie. This is what HMSC should have been which is no discresit to it either it's an amazing tome. Get this or die cause we all do stupid things.

Invaluable
Helpful Votes: 3 out of 3 total.
Review Date: 2008-06-24
This is the book every single person should own. It will save your life and make you re-evaluate exactly what you've been doing with it. Every so often, a book comes around with the reformative power to change the way you look at the world. This is that book. This is the one and only book you need to live your life.

How to Survive a Horror Movie breaks apart how the world works. Babysitting? Have to make sure you live the night, right? What with all those psycho-killers out there, the voices on the phone and the intense feeling you're being watched, babysitting is more about staying in one piece than it is actually watching kids.

What about possessed dolls? You can't tell me you've never had a doll that turned its head, laughed and started crawling towards you. I wouldn't believe you if you didn't. How do you protect yourself? How do you survive?

Then there's that feeling that maybe you're actually dead...and have been for quite some time. How do you finally come to that realization? This was the hardest lesson for me. Discovering and coming to terms with that will be a complete eye-opener for many people.

I promise you this book will not only provide you insight to your life, but it will also complement your Zombie Survival Guide; taken together, these two novels will help you survive life as we know it.

And honestly, what's more important than that?


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Related Subjects: Music Theatre
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