Storytellers to the Nation: A History of American Television Writing (Television Series) (Paperback)

~ (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

Stempel's (cinema, Los Angeles City Coll.) subtitle is no idle boast: He tries to provide the first comprehensive view of TV from the writer's perspective. Because much of the early history of the medium is becoming harder to research as its pioneers age and die, this largely chronological book is stronger in its later chapters. The author provides lengthy stories on the making of China Beach (1988-91), Hill Street Blues (1981-87), and thirtysomething (1987-91); would that he could have done the same for the live dramatic anthologies of the 1950s. Stempel covers not only prime-time comedy and drama, but variety and documentary shows; one notable omission: soap operas. Stronger for its anecdotal material than its analytical content, this volume is a worthy attempt to cover a subject much in need of further research.
- Thomas Wiener, formerly with "American Film"
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Product Description

This work shows the behind-the-scenes writers of the best and the worst American television shows. Writers instanced include Paddy Chafesky and Steven Bochco, recounting their experiences of working and fighting with network producers, censors and stars. The books uses interviews and ancedotes.

Product Details

• Paperback: 307 pages
• Publisher: Syracuse University Press (July 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0815603681
• ISBN-13: 978-0815603689
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 15 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #862,630 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars From The Texaco Star Theatre to ER, January 25, 2009

By	Trent (Los Angeles, CA) - See all my reviews

This is easily Tom Stempel's best book. If you would like to travel back in time and hear critical analysis about the development and progress of television writing, then this is the book for you.

It was very hard to put this book down. Stempel's writing is much like a relaxed and informative conversation. He has a wonderful way of balancing history and humor. No punches were pulled here, you'll see who didn't like who back in the day and why. He interviewed numerous writers, so we get to "listen in" on conversations about how television writing developed from firsthand accounts.

It was also very interesting to read how certain shows failed and how others succeeded. All of your favorite shows are in his book, everything from the early days of television to the early nineties.

It's a must read for anyone who enjoys a good book about writing, writers, or television.

I highly recommend it!