Jane & Michael Stern's Encyclopedia of Pop Culture: An A to Z Guide of Who's Who and What's What, from Aerobics and Bubble Gum to Valley of the Doll

Rating:
Summary: A very entertaining and informative read
Review: The authors of this book are very witty and well-informed, whether they're writing about Pop-Rocks, The Brady Bunch, or Hippies (whom the authors define succinctly as 'lobotomized beatniks'). The entry on Evel Knievel will make you laugh out loud, and perhaps blush a little bit at the strangeness of the characters whom our society makes into idols. You'll find a lot of interesting information on classic American TV shows, bizzarrely popular consumer products, celebrities who defined their eras, and lots of little things you've forgotten about... like pet rocks, leg warmers, and mood rings.

Rating:
Summary: FUN INFO TOME
Review: This is an excellent reference work that profiles the most celebrated (and in some cases, reviled) touchstones of 20th Century American life. I highly recommend finding a copy.