From School Library Journal
YA?An entertaining chronicle of television. Owen focuses on certain popular shows such as Schoolhouse Rock and Beverly Hills 90210 to depict not only how Gen Xers influenced network programming, but also how television affected the lives of this generation. The author collected much of his data by posting a survey to various Usenet groups on the Internet. Teens are sure to enjoy the black-and-white photos of some of their favorite shows scattered throughout the book. Also included are dialogue boxes that provide show statistics and summaries and/or interesting facts about the program. For example, there is a five-page history on the Brady Bunch, including a chronology of the show from the original episodes to the Brady Brides specials and quotes from the program's creator, Sherwood Schwartz. Although posting a survey on the Internet is not the most scientific way to do research, the inclusion of quotes from many of the respondents lend credibility to the author's theories. Owen's style and presentation make the reading easy and enjoyable.?Stacey M. Keeley, Sherwood Regional Library, Fairfax, VA
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Library Journal
Generation X is not easily defined, but it would appear that TV is one of its common denominators. Owen, a TV critic for the Albany Times Union, takes a look at American youth between 22 and 32 years old and the impact of TV on their collective attitude. He probes youthful exposure to "TV as baby-sitter," examines members' reactions to later shows depicting Gen X, and discusses the group's occasional rejection of the medium as a whole. He deftly analyzes programs watched during the growing years (The Brady Bunch), landmark series (Beverly Hills 90210), shows about Gen X itself (Friends), and, in an intriguing but sobering look at cyberspace, the impact of the Internet as a means of communicating about cutting-edge favorites. Those with a strong interest in the social aspects of the medium as well as avid TV viewers will find some illuminating food for thought here on contemporary culture. Recommended for circulating libraries.?Carol J. Binkowski, Bloomfield, N.J.
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.
