Studs Terkel Books

Oral history evokes the innocent idealism, as well as the terror and horror, of ordinary Americans at home and abroad during World War II

This Pulitzer Prize Winning oral history by America's legendary radio host Studs Terkel presents a remarkable document of the American experience of World War II.

The Pulitzer Prize-winning historian author of The Good War recounts his hard-working early childhood in Chicago, his beginnings as a disc jockey after World War II, his struggles after being blacklisted in spite of his television successes, and more. Reprint. 50,000 first printing.

Studs Terkel records the voices of America. Men and women from every walk of life talk to him, telling him of their likes and dislikes, fears, problems, and happinesses on the job. Once again, Terkel has created a rich and unique document that is as simple as conversation, but as subtle and heartfelt as the meaning of our lives.... In the first trade paperback edition of his national bestseller, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Studs Terkel presents "the real American experience" (Chicago Daily News) -- "a magnificent book . . .. A work of art. To read it is to hear America talking." (Boston Globe)

A panorama of American life and work throughout this century from the mouths of 74 very different people, the youngest of whom is 70 and the oldest 99 years old. The text traces the extraordinary ways in which working lives have changed in the past few decades.

Takes a close-up look at America in the 1980s, from Star Wars and Iranscam to Rick and Joanie struggling with parenthood and Mike and J.J. pioneering in New York City

America's most inspirational voices share their stories in this remarkable oral history published when Studs Terkel was ninety-one. It explores the elusive subject of hope: its origins, essential qualities, and how to sustain it during dark times. This personal chronicle of the "American century" reflects Terkel's indefatigable spirit and serves as an inheritance for those actively pursuing their dreams. A former death row inmate recounts his relentless fight for justice, while Tom Hayden reflects on the legacy of 1960s student activism. Liberal economist John Kenneth Galbraith discusses corporate malfeasance, and a compassionate doctor shares insights with his students. The retired brigadier general who flew the Enola Gay over Hiroshima adds his perspective, revealing much about the American dream and the individuals advocating for a better world. Terkel's subjects express their hopes and dreams with grace and warmth, creating an inspiring narrative of optimism and persistence. This collection of interviews offers fascinating stories and deep insights into the vast range of human experience. Critics praise it for its eloquence and the unique lens it provides on the human condition, solidifying Terkel's legacy as an American treasure.

“IT’S THE UNGUARDED VOICES HE PRESENTS THAT STAY WITH YOU. . . . Terkel’s interviews may not allay fears about death. But reading them certainly encourages life while we have it.”–The New York Times The legendary oral histories of Studs Terkel provide invaluable insights into American life. At eighty-eight, the Pulitzer Prize winner tackles the challenging subject of death, presenting voices from both esteemed individuals and the everyday. This collection shares wise words, meaningful memories, and compassionate predictions about life’s end and what may follow. A grad student recounts how her two-year coma led her to believe in reincarnation, while a Hiroshima survivor reflects on reconciling painful memories with her culture's stoicism. Actress Uta Hagan discusses how her art serves as her religion and legacy. Oscar-winning cinematographer Haskell Wexler relives his harrowing World War II experience in a lifeboat among injured comrades. An AIDS counselor highlights the psychological needs of healthy gay men, and a retired firefighter shares how he felt most alive while facing danger in his job. Covering the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of death, this work is a stirring culmination of Terkel’s brilliant career, encouraging readers to embrace life while confronting its inevitable end.

This landmark reissue of a classic work offers a vibrant microcosm of America, showcasing diverse voices and experiences. Enhanced by a new foreword from a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, it invites readers to explore the rich tapestry of American life through personal stories. The book serves as both a historical document and a reflection on societal themes, making it a significant contribution to understanding the complexities of the American experience.

"Here is the raw material for one thousand novels….incomparable."—Margaret Atwood In this unique look at one of our most pervasive national myths, Studs Terkel persuades an extraordinary range of Americans to articulate their version of "The American Dream." Beginning with an embittered winner of the Miss U.S.A. contest who sees the con behind the dream of success and including an early interview with a highly ambitious Arnold Schwarzenegger, Terkel explores the diverse landscape of the promise of the United States—from farm kids dreaming of the city to city kids determined to get out, from the Boston Brahmin to the KKK member, from newly arrived immigrants to families who have lived in this country for generations, these narratives include figures both famous and infamous. Filtered through the lens of our leading oral historian, the chorus of voices in American Dreams highlights the hopes and struggles of coming to and living in the United States. Originally published in 1980, this is a classic work of oral history that provides an extraordinary and moving picture of everyday American lives.