Title
Bright Light City: Las Vegas in Popular Culture (CultureAmerica),Used
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When Elvis crooned "Bright light city . . . gonna set my soul on fire," he voiced and embraced the siren call of a glittering urban utopia that continues to mesmerize millions. Call it Sin City or Lost Wages, Las Vegas definitely deserves its rapturous "Viva!"Larry Gragg, however, invites readers to view Las Vegas in an entirely new way. While countless other authors have focused on its history or gaming industry or entertainment ties, Gragg considers how popular culture has depicted the city and its powerful allure over its first century.Drawing on hundreds of films, television programs, novels, and articles, Gragg identifies changing trends in the city's portraits. Until the 1940s, boosters promoted it as the "last frontier town," a place where prospectors and cowboys enjoyed liquor, women, and wideopen gambling. Then in the early 1950s commentators increasingly characterized Las Vegas as a sophisticated resort city in the desert, and ever since then journalists, filmmakers, and novelists have depicted a city largely built by organized crime and featuring nonstop entertainment, gambling, luxury, and, of course, beautifuland availablewomen.In Gragg's narrative, these images form a kaleidoscope of lights, sounds, characters, and ultimately amazement about this neon oasis. In these pages, readers will meet gangsters like Bugsy Siegel, Tony Spilotro, and Lefty Rosenthal, as well as Las Vegas's most popular entertainers: Elvis Presley, Sinatra's Rat Pack, Liberace, and Wayne Newton, not to mention the Folies Bergere showgirls. And Gragg's skillful interweaving of fictional and journalistic accounts of organized crime shows just how mutually reinforcing they have become over the years.Vegas will always make people's eyes light up as bright as the Strip, witness the new TV show Vegas or the recent film The Hangover. For everyone entranced by its glitter and glamour, Bright Light City is a must read boasting color photos and bursting with insider details: an eclectic blend of stories, people, sights, and sounds that together make up this desert city's extraordinary appeal.
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65):
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: What is the page count of the book? A: The book has three hundred thirty-six pages. This length allows for an in-depth exploration of Las Vegas in popular culture.
- Q: What are the dimensions of this book? A: The book measures six point thirty-eight inches in length, one point twenty-two inches in width, and nine point twenty-nine inches in height. These dimensions make it a standard hardcover size.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: The book features hardcover binding. This ensures durability and longevity for readers who wish to keep it in good condition.
- Q: Who is the author of 'Bright Light City'? A: The author is Larry Gragg. He offers a unique perspective on Las Vegas by analyzing its representation in popular culture.
- Q: What genre does this book belong to? A: The book falls under the State & Local genre. It provides cultural insights into Las Vegas over its first century.
- Q: How can I use this book for research? A: You can use this book as a source for understanding the portrayal of Las Vegas in media. It draws on various films, TV shows, and articles, making it a rich resource.
- Q: Is this book suitable for all ages? A: Yes, the book is suitable for a general audience. However, it discusses themes related to organized crime and adult entertainment, which may not be appropriate for younger readers.
- Q: Can I gift this book to someone interested in Las Vegas? A: Yes, this book makes an excellent gift for anyone fascinated by Las Vegas. Its colorful storytelling and rich details will appeal to pop culture enthusiasts.
- Q: What is the condition of the book being sold? A: The book is listed as used but in good condition. It may show some signs of wear, but it remains fully readable and intact.
- Q: How should I store this book? A: You should store the book upright on a shelf to prevent warping. Keeping it away from direct sunlight will also help preserve its cover and pages.
- Q: Is there any special care needed for this hardcover book? A: No special care is required beyond normal handling. Just avoid exposing it to excessive moisture or heat to maintain its condition.
- Q: What if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, you should contact the seller for a return or exchange. Most sellers have policies in place to address such issues.
- Q: Can I return the book if I'm not satisfied? A: Yes, most sellers offer a return policy. You can typically return the book within a specified period if it does not meet your expectations.
- Q: How does this book compare to other books on Las Vegas? A: This book offers a unique focus on popular culture, unlike many that concentrate on history or gaming. It's ideal for those interested in cultural representations.
- Q: What themes are explored in this book? A: The book explores themes of glamour, organized crime, and entertainment in Las Vegas. It captures the city's allure through various cultural lenses.
- Q: Where can I find more books by Larry Gragg? A: You can find more of Larry Gragg's works through major retailers or libraries. He has written extensively about American culture and history.