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 Turkel 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, Turkel has created a rich and unique document that is as simple as conversation, but as subtle and heartfelt as the meaning of our lives.

Through candid interviews, the oral historian captures the raw and unfiltered experiences of ordinary individuals confronting mortality. These intimate conversations reveal profound insights and emotional truths, leaving a lasting impact on readers. The focus on personal narratives highlights the universal struggle with life and death, making it a poignant exploration of human resilience and vulnerability.

First published in 1970, this classic of oral history features the voices of persons who lived through the Great Depression of the 1930s. It includes accounts by congressmen C. Wright Patman & Hamilton Fish, as well as failed presidential candidate Alf M. Landon, who recalls what it was like to be governor of Kansas in 1933: "Men with tears in their eyes begged for an appointment that would help save their homes & farms. I couldn't see them all in my office. But I never let one of them leave without my coming out & shakin' hands with 'em. I listened to all their stories, each one of 'em. But it was obvious I couldn't take care of all their terrible needs." The book includes also the perspectives of ordinary men & women, such as Jim Sheridan, who took part in the 1932 march by WWI veterans to petition for their benefits in Washington, DC, where they were repelled by army troops led by Gen. Douglas MacArthur. Or Edward Santander, who was a child then: "My first memories come about '31. It was simply a gut issue then: eating or not eating, living or not living." Studs Terkel makes history come alive, drawing out experiences & emotions from interviewees to the degree few have ever been able to match.

Inspiring, personal stories of political activism and determination in uncertain times.

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.

The author of Working and Hard Times examines the leading issue in American politics, presenting the feelings of nearly one hundred Americans on such issues as affirmative action, changing neighborhoods, secret prejudices, and more.