Lewis's book provides not only a wealth of information but also delightful reading. It should be part of every library as a starter point for classes on American nineteenth-century public culture. Amerikastudien / American Studies 2006 Belongs in the collection of anyone who claims to be serious about the study of American popular entertainments. Nineteenth Century Theatre and Film 2006 Includes a range of useful and previously inaccessible sources. Both researchers and teachers will find it a valuable reference. Australasian Journal of American Studies 2006 An impressive and judiciously selected collection of relevant documents... This compendium is notable for its broad coverage of forms, informative commentary, and superb bibliographic essay on sources. Choice 2004 An eminently useful book... It is an excellent reader for introducing students to cultural history, bringing it alive through primary sources. Cercles All-encompassing... it is likely to become a standard work, for media students as well as for American history enthusiasts.
Stephen Bottomore Early Popular Visual Culture 2008