This essay collection explores the cultural functions the printed book performs in the digital age. It examines how the use of and attitude toward the book form have changed in light of the digital transformation of American media culture. Situated at the crossroads of American studies, literary studies, book studies, and media studies, these essays show that a sustained focus on the medial and material formats of literary communication significantly expands our accustomed ways of doing cultural studies. Addressing the changing roles of authors, publishers, and readers while covering multiple bookish formats such as artists' books, bestselling novels, experimental fiction, and zines, this interdisciplinary volume introduces readers to current transatlantic conversations on the history and future of the printed book.
"This relevant and timely book ... . I won't be satisfied until I possess a physical copy of this useful and thought-provoking collection." (Glyn White, Textual Cultures, Vol. 14 (1), 2021)
"The Printed Book in Contemporary American Culture an unequivocally thorough study on the printed book in the early twenty-first century ... . Schaefer and Starre have composed a volume brimming withfresh insight, comprehensive research, and interdisciplinary perspectives that brings forth the richness in contemporary engagements with the printed book. Skillfully calibrated to ensure smooth transitions across chapters, The Printed Book in Contemporary American Culture reveals the current media landscape as a transformative terrain forthe printed book's regeneration." (Thomas Mantzaris, European Journal of American Studies, Vol. 16 (4), 2021)
"The Printed Book in Contemporary American Culture an unequivocally thorough study on the printed book in the early twenty-first century ... . Schaefer and Starre have composed a volume brimming withfresh insight, comprehensive research, and interdisciplinary perspectives that brings forth the richness in contemporary engagements with the printed book. Skillfully calibrated to ensure smooth transitions across chapters, The Printed Book in Contemporary American Culture reveals the current media landscape as a transformative terrain forthe printed book's regeneration." (Thomas Mantzaris, European Journal of American Studies, Vol. 16 (4), 2021)