Smokerama [Paperback]

Philip Collins (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

This is a nostalgic look at the collectibles of an era when smoking was not only socially acceptable but something to be flaunted. In loving detail, the book displays artifacts (some quite ingenious) such as ashtrays, stands, cigarette cases, holders, and lighters. Ads feature such unlikely pitchmen as Fred Astaire, Henry Fonda, Gregory Peck, and Laurel and Hardy. Some social commentary can be gleaned here regarding bygone attitudes about entertaining, leisure time, and health issues (one cigarette is hyped as "a long gain for throat comfort"), and the abundant use of racial stereotypes in popular culture is evident. The book is similar in format and quality to Jerry Jankowski's recent Shelf Life: Modern Package Design 1920-1945 ( LJ 11/1/92). It doesn't make one wish to "light up" and can be safely recommended for public libraries as demand warrants.
- Stephen Rees, Bucks Cty. Free Lib., Levittown, Pa.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Details

• Paperback: 132 pages
• Publisher: Chronicle Books (August 1, 1992)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0811801195
• ISBN-13: 978-0811801195
• Product Dimensions: 9.9 x 8.4 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.8 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,428,937 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Before "smoking" was a dirty word, September 24, 2000

By 

Robert W. Barnwell "BobTheCopywriter" (Starkville, MS, United States) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Smokerama (Paperback)

This book is a coffee table photo collection of the art, advertising and paraphernalia of tobacco in the early part of this century. From celebrity endorsements to electrical trick lighters to objects that literally shudder with political incorrectness, this book gives us a visual history of both tobacco and our national culture during the period. The book simultaneously enlightening and beautiful.