New Book Celebrates Classic TV Shows From the Era "When Television Brought Us Together"

HENDERSON, Nev., Jan. 19, 2021 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Why do millions of people still watch old TV shows? Why does the MeTV network, with its 24/7 schedule of television series from the 1950s-1980s, attract more viewers than CNN and 80 other cable outlets?

That question is explored in "When Television Brought Us Together" (Black Pawn Press), the new book from TV historian David Hofstede. Hofstede's previous books about television include "Obsessed With TV" and "What Were They Thinking? The 100 Dumbest Events in Television History."

Hofstede says the key to their enduring popularity goes beyond the quality of the shows themselves. "The television shows from decades past are not just a source of happy shared memories; they are a common thread that once weaved through our culture.

"These shows give us a window through which we can see how Americans lived at the time they were first broadcast: what schools were like, what families were like. And to many of us old enough to remember those times, it seemed better than what we have now."

"When Television Brought Us Together" devotes chapters to more than 50 classics from the 1950s ("I Love Lucy," "The Adventures of Ozzie & Harriet," "Father Knows Best"), the 1960s ("Bewitched," "Get Smart," "The Dick Van Dyke Show," "The Fugitive") and the 1970s ("The Brady Bunch," "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," "The Bob Newhart Show"). It also features "How Times Have Changed" essays that examine other facets of American life as viewed through these shows.

The book is garnering praise from TV fans, and from cast members of great shows from the past. "I'm happy to know I'm not the only one looking back at the television series of my youth not just with nostalgia, but with longing for programs today that comfort, nourish, entertain and reflect who we are," said Kathryn Leigh Scott, star of the 1960s cult classic "Dark Shadows."

Hofstede says he hopes the book will provide a respite from the craziness of the 21st century, particularly in this past year. "If you ever wondered why they don't make TV shows like they used to, this book is for you. Likewise, if you watch the news and wonder what's happened to the country, I think you'll also find it will offer a temporary escape from our stressful times."

"When Television Brought Us Together" (Black Pawn Press) is available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other retailers worldwide.

Interviews with author David Hofstede are available upon request.

Contact:
Black Pawn Press
[email protected]
http://www.blackpawnpress.com

Media Contact

David Hofstede, Black Pawn Press, 702-361-9979, [email protected]

SOURCE Black Pawn Press