Rating: 
Summary: Becoming outdated...so to speak
Review: This is a classic favorite of sociologists. Gives thumbnail definitions of modern technical terms(Ex: virtual reality, medical terms(Ex: AZT), business terms(Ex: junk bonds). Although for adults, the core knowledge of this work was distilled for the series: "What Your Sixth Grader Needs to Know."
The author, Hirsch, an English professor, was criticized for being and "elitist" for gearing his work to the dominant culture, however, the book can be used as an invaluable resource to immigrants, underprivileged, and anyone who is overwhelmed by the rapidly changing and increasing world of terminology!!
Rating:
Summary: Good general reference starter
Review: Yes. That's right - i said a place to *start* your research journey.This is in no way, shape, or form a book that will help you write a paper, pass a history course, or understand some obscure literary reference in a poem. If you read it, however, you may just impress Jay Leno when he does his "Jay Walking" segments on the Tonight Show. For what it is - an all purpose guide to Western / american culture - it does a good job. I've referenced my copy many times over the years. ie When I'm watching a movie set during the life and times of Horatio Nelson, I've looked up Nelson in the book. When I'm reading a book that takes place during the Napoleonic Wars, I've referenced quite a few things. Is this the entire history of Western / American culture? NO. It's a thumbnail sketch with many, many holes. It is however, quite informative and interesting. As long as you understand what it is and what it isn't - I'd recommend the book.
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