Member Reviews
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, "Our America" is a testament to the enduring power of photography as a medium for storytelling and remembrance. Burns's passion for history and his keen eye for detail shine through in every page, making this book a captivating and immersive experience for readers of all ages.
I am sorry to be so late to this. I lost my mom after losing my dad 9 months earlier, so did not get to much of anything done for a long time. This book was so incredibly well done, the photos gorgeous, the text about photography very thought provoking, and the telling of history through this photos so moving. I am taking a copy for my book group holiday gathering. I believe I posted on my author page (Facebook.com/novelistmeg) and my Instagram (@megwaiteclyton) when I first read this, but in any event have done so again. Thank you again for the NetGalley.
I recommend this book to anybody who loves photography or is interested in American history. Though, I have a pretty good knowledge of American history, I learned a lot through Burns’ book. It is important to point out that Burns presents ALL American history — the good, the nasty, and the embarrassing. He gives voice and imagery to peoples long quieted. While I understand why Burns organized his book the way he did, and it was more powerful looking at the pictures without trying to read about them too. However it was hard to flip back and forth on an e-reader. I recommend buying this book in print…I certainly am.
This is my first book by Ken Burns. I thought enjoyed this book of black and white, from World War, MLK, just history and the path. A great way to pass time.
~~~ I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ~~~
Our America is a nice collection black and white photographs detailing America's history over the last 200 years. The photographs are arranged in sequential order and cover many important events in history- from slaves, to the Great Depression, to WWII, and MLK, etc. There are some amazing images I have never seen that are very moving. I truly enjoyed looking through this book. This would be a great book to give as a gift to a history buff or avid photographer. It also would be a nice coffee table book or one to place in a waiting room. Overall, a great collection of American historical images!
I enjoyed this book. The collection of photography does exactly what the author stated his wish to convey - a look at OUR America and the path we've left to get where we were.
I do not find myself drawn to Ken Burns documentaries. I think he mistakes status quo upholding thinking for a false sense of objectivity. I decided to take a chance on this book though and found it an adequate way to pass some time. More interesting journalists and storytellers could do a more interesting job though.