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Rating: 
Summary: A Different Perspective
Review: I've owned Mr. Kittel's book for quite some time. I bought it not for the subject matter, but for his photography. As an amateur for 30 years I know how hard it is to produce some of the photography shown in this book. I notice the prior reviewer criticizes the book for not providing more history, etc. on diners. If the book were misleading in its description or presentation I would agree. However, it makes no such pretenses. This is a photographic book, plain and simple. Actually, those interested in diner history should look into the work of Richard Gutman on diners, which is comprehensive and an excellent companion to this volume. It has been with this book that I've felt more closeness to the atmosphere of diners, because his photos provide not only a sense of spontaneity in the people, but also his use of lighting. I particularly enjoy those photos where he has made no correction for fluoroscent lighting with his daylight film. This lends a greenish cast to those photos, again enhancing the feel of spontaneity. As stated above, this is an excellent photographic study of the American diner phenomenon. Those looking for historical narrative can find that easily elsewhere.
Rating:
Summary: A Different Perspective
Review: I've owned Mr. Kittel's book for quite some time. I bought it not for the subject matter, but for his photography. As an amateur for 30 years I know how hard it is to produce some of the photography shown in this book. I notice the prior reviewer criticizes the book for not providing more history, etc. on diners. If the book were misleading in its description or presentation I would agree. However, it makes no such pretenses. This is a photographic book, plain and simple. Actually, those interested in diner history should look into the work of Richard Gutman on diners, which is comprehensive and an excellent companion to this volume. It has been with this book that I've felt more closeness to the atmosphere of diners, because his photos provide not only a sense of spontaneity in the people, but also his use of lighting. I particularly enjoy those photos where he has made no correction for fluoroscent lighting with his daylight film. This lends a greenish cast to those photos, again enhancing the feel of spontaneity. As stated above, this is an excellent photographic study of the American diner phenomenon. Those looking for historical narrative can find that easily elsewhere.
Rating: 
Summary: a decent book about diners
Review: the photos in this book were very good, although i would have preferred a bit more history. i recommend it though, to someone who is casually interested in diners and the people who love them.
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