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4.07 AVERAGE
4.07 AVERAGE
dark
informative
medium-paced
informative
reflective
medium-paced
informative
medium-paced
informative
medium-paced
comprehensive dive,
entertainment genre
all too verité
///
Worthwhile thoroughly-researched read for any fan of reality television, or anyone curious about the evolution of the genre. Each chapter dives into an era, a show or network, producer, or other connective thread. The mostly chronological organization works to show the influences and innovations, as well as a clear cultural shift.
I'm a massive fan of Survivor and I thought I knew nearly everything behind-the-scenes, but this proved me wrong by giving detailed fascinating insight into the development and filming of the first season. Even for shows which I never watched or shared interest, I was always engaged in the storytelling and exclusive testimonials.
Ends on a bummer of a note, especially listening in early 2025 at the start of that man's second administration.
entertainment genre
all too verité
///
Worthwhile thoroughly-researched read for any fan of reality television, or anyone curious about the evolution of the genre. Each chapter dives into an era, a show or network, producer, or other connective thread. The mostly chronological organization works to show the influences and innovations, as well as a clear cultural shift.
I'm a massive fan of Survivor and I thought I knew nearly everything behind-the-scenes, but this proved me wrong by giving detailed fascinating insight into the development and filming of the first season. Even for shows which I never watched or shared interest, I was always engaged in the storytelling and exclusive testimonials.
Ends on a bummer of a note, especially listening in early 2025 at the start of that man's second administration.
informative
reflective
medium-paced
challenging
funny
informative
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
In ‘Cue the Sun! The Invention of Reality TV’, Emily Nussbaum explores the origins of reality TV and how it has evolved over the years, shaping not only the industry and its viewers but also wider society, as felt through the ever-looming presence of Donald Trump.
The book is thoroughly researched and provides fascinating insights into the production of reality TV and its cultural impact. There’s no behind-the-scenes gossip or spilling the tea on reality TV contestants here, which may be a disappointment to readers looking for juicy new deets about their faves, but for anyone interested in how reality TV is made and the real, unseen stars of the industry, it offers plenty.
The book is wonderfully written, full of wit and passion; it blends the informativeness of non-fiction with the liveliness of story. More than that, it provides real food for thought, not only about the television industry, but about human nature and how we came to the point we currently find ourselves at in history.
I thoroughly recommend this book. It’s one to read and think about and discuss. More engaging than reality TV!
medium-paced
The best mix of informative research and dishy. As someone who doesn’t watch reality TV, still found engaging and had enough backstory to keep up.
Really enjoyable adventure through reality TV, whose roots are much earlier than I new!
funny
informative
reflective
medium-paced