A social analysis of eight uniquely American groups, from the Bohemian Club to the Church of God in Christ, shows to what extent American identities are shaped by involvement in groups and pastimes. 50,000 first printing. $50,000 ad/promo. Tour.
Published in 1992 by W. Hampton Sides, this journey through Americana in the 20th century has been wonderful. Some portions of it I recall clearly as an observer but never a participant - Bass fishing, Tupperware parties, the 'hippies communing with nature', Sturgis. The Bohemian festival of wealthy, powerful American men which opens the book was a new one. Whether the Iditarod race, camping ventures with in an Airstream camper or evangelism with the Church of God in Christ, author Sides' makes you a virtual participant and therefore a fellow on that slice of the American experience. I'm thankful for the experiences...all eight of them.