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13 of 13 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
The fans have taken over!, August 9, 1999
A book such as this would have been almost inconceivable a decade ago, such is its dedication to its subject matter. Without wishing to use the comparison in a derogatory manner, the "Dark Shadows Almanac" is a book which reads almost like a fanzine as opposed to a standard reference guide. As such, the serious fans will lap it up, even if their less initiated counterparts will be left scratching their heads in confusion.Composed of a scrapbook-style mix of bite-size pieces of trivia, rare photographs, cast remembrances and obscure information, the result is a warm tribute which, much like the show it is inspired by, makes up for its occasional instances of over-ambition with a charming sense of enthusiasm. Perhaps the most bizarre aspect of this book is the manner in which it offers a handy way of discovering how great a fan you really are of "Dark Shadows": If you read the text with interest, understanding the feelings of nostalgia and warm remembrance, then you are doubtless part of the fan community already; if you are occasionally left puzzling over elements, then you are well on your way to making the crossover; and if the whole thing leaves you cold, then perhaps the prospect of further initiation is a dish best not served. In short, this is a book which will be of great appeal to its intended audience, but probably to that demographic only. Speaking as a fan of "Dark Shadows", I think that the book is a fine tribute for readers like myself and, looking at the results, can't help wishing that more viewers of shows were catered for this well.
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