Rating: 
Summary: A book about style that won't go out of style
Review: Hine's book is a meticulously researched, wonderfully illustrated work on how the American mindset of the 1950s and 1960s created both the consumer culture and the physical environment in which it thrives. All of this is masquerading as an enjoyable, nostalgic, amusement park ride through the world of split-level houses, tail finned cars, and orange Naugahyde-upholstered furniture. It's a fun read for all baby boomers as well as for any of their children who are trying to figure out why their parents think pink and green go together. By the way, I also recommend this book to any Europeans trying to understand American culture. Read this and the short story "The Concrete Mixer" by Ray Bradbury and you'll understand why McDonalds and Wal-Mart can't be stopped.
Rating:
Summary: A book about style that won't go out of style
Review: Hine's work is a meticulously researched, wonderfully illustrated work on how the American mindset of the 1950s and 1960s created both the consumer culture and the physical environment in which it thrives. All of this is masquerading as an enjoyable, nostalgic, amusement park ride through the world of split-level houses, tail finned cars, and orange Naugahyde-upholstered furniture. It's a fun read for all baby boomers as well as for any of their children who are trying to figure out why their parents think pink and green go together. By the way, I also recommend this book to any Europeans trying to understand American culture. Read this and the short story "The Concrete Mixer" by Ray Bradbury and you'll understand while McDonalds and Wal-Mart can't be stopped.
Rating: 
Summary: Fun look at American History
Review: I found this book in college, used as a text for the Industrial Design dept. I was a Criminal Justice major myself, but found this a great look at American culture.This book could be a blueprint for the whimsical looks at the 50's seen on History Channel documentaries. Hines book is a fun, unpretentious look at the times that led to the designs. It is refreshing that the author didn't take the easy route and simply churn out a tome laundry listing trends simply to make fun of them. The book shows a great understanding and admiration of the industrial art of the era without any pretense or hubris
Rating:
Summary: Fun look at American History
Review: I found this book in college, used as a text for the Industrial Design dept. I was a Criminal Justice major myself, but found this a great look at American culture. This book could be a blueprint for the whimsical looks at the 50's seen on History Channel documentaries. Hines book is a fun, unpretentious look at the times that led to the designs. It is refreshing that the author didn't take the easy route and simply churn out a tome laundry listing trends simply to make fun of them. The book shows a great understanding and admiration of the industrial art of the era without any pretense or hubris
Rating:
Summary: Thoroughly enjoyable
Review: I found this book to be very entertaining and informative. It gave me a glimpse into America's recent past and an idea of what 1950's America was really like, with far more depth than the Nick at Nite sitcoms. The book was filled with wonderful, bright pictures that really illustrated that seemingly simpler, idealistic time.
Rating:
Summary: Thoroughly enjoyable
Review: I found this book to be very entertaining and informative. It gave me a glimpse into America's recent past and an idea of what 1950's America was really like, with far more depth than the Nick at Nite sitcoms. The book was filled with wonderful, bright pictures that really illustrated that seemingly simpler, idealistic time.
Rating:
Summary: the coolest book ever
Review: i have been obsessed with this book since it came out when i was 8 (don't ask how i had access to it.) i am so happy it's coming out again.
Rating:
Summary: Absolutely fabulous
Review: I received this book as a gift 10 years ago, and it was stolen shortly thereafter. I recall it as extremely well-written and illustrated, actually treating the "Populuxe" era (about 1954-64) with a serious analytical bent that would elevate the relevance of the consumer products of that time to important, influential and impactful -- most certainly the case for Boomers. From Disneyland's Home of the Future and tacky dinette sets to sunburst clocks and '61 Plymouth fins, outstandingly presented (as is Abrams' style) -- and most satisfying. Also way ahead of its time.
Rating:
Summary: A comprehensive, visually stunning, hip, wonderful book!
Review: I stumbled across this book in the library several years ago and loved it! This book is a true literary treasure and the ultimate guide to life in America after WWII. What an enjoyable trip back in time! This is one of the many books I have read over the years that I have never forgotten. A masterpiece of nostalgia, without being sentimental or phony. It's unbelievable that this book is out of print!
Rating:
Summary: A classic treatise on post-WW II American pop culture
Review: I thought I was fortunate when I was able to find and check out this book from my local library; now being able to own it outright is a wish fulfilled. Hine presents what many consider to be the definitive treatment of American popular culture in _Populuxe_. From its roots in post-WW II mass consumerism to its demise in the pre-Vietnam global technocracy, Hine provides a comprehensive analysis of the commercial design sensibilities that defined the era. I'll bet those Nickelodeon TV Land folks have a copy of this book locked in a protected vault. If you're into Retro, or are a serious or casual student of Pop Art or American pop culture, you've probably seen this book often referenced as an authoritative work. Once you've read it for yourself, you'll know why.
| 
