“Have You Seen...?”
A prolific writer of various genre with two biographical dictionaries of film to his credit, David Thomson presents a new collection of short essays introducing a thousand films.
Book Digest
A collection of 274 issues
Best Thought, Worst Thought
Though the aphorism already has its pantheon, Scottish poet, editor, and musician Don Paterson adopts the title of aphorist with the release of his new book.
A Great Idea
As newspapers eschew paper, Boston Globe columnist Alex Beam investigates the mid-20th-century “Great Books” movement and why millions of Americans bought in.
A Bold Fresh Piece of Humanity
An attempt is made for a fair and balanced look at Fox Network blabbermouth Bill O’Reilly’s eighth book, a so-called “issues-based memoir.”
In Memoriam: Studs Terkel
Studs Terkel, one of several Chicago wonders, passes away at a glorious 96 years old. His most recent work, published earlier this year, anthologizes previously unpublished writings, broadcasts, and interviews.
Fred Astaire
Joseph Epstein introduces this monograph, in a series from the Yale University Press, on American icon and extraordinary entertainer/everyman Fred Astaire.
Parrworld
Photographer, collector, and Magnum member once derided as being “from another planet,” Martin Parr releases a small portion of his mammoth collection in a two-volume set dedicated to postcards and other kitsch.
Recently Read
Whether waiting in some queue or traffic jam, it’s always recommended to have an escape appliance. By way of suggestion, Robert Birnbaum sifts through his recently read list.
Across the Agua to Managua, Nicaragua
A reissued monograph, a book of historical nonfiction, and an Alex Cox DVD from Criterion bring the lovely, oft-benighted country of Nicaragua out of history’s shadows.
Handmade Nation
A D.I.Y. compendium of original creations supports the release of the documentary “Handmade Nation,” coming next year. The book includes interviews and photos of the craftiest people (and their work) from across the country.