Route 66: The Television Series (Revised Edition)

"Route 66" was unarguably a series ahead of its time: cutting edge issues; well-written (most of them) scripts; solid performances by both veteran and up-and-coming actors/actresses; and - who could forget - the weekly escape to a new locale via that iconic corvette. Idealistic? Sure; but that's part of what characterized the early 60s. For most of its run, Kennedy was still alive and America was brimming with optimism. Just below the surface though, currents were beginning to develop that would burst onto the scene just a few short years later. Todd, Buz, and the corvette are the only strand of continuity tying the underlying theme of freedom, exploration, and wanderlust into each week's episode - which are all, by the way, filmed on location. The opportunity to see how "heartland America" looked fifty year's ago is alone worth the investment of time into getting into the series. James Rosin has done a good job here by capturing - in word and photograph - a lot of the essence and character of the show, and has rounded it out with some interesting insights/trivia/recollections from both cast and crew alike. Like all of Rosin's "TV themed" books, it is a quick read (I finished it in less than an afternoon). But it also affords the curious with interesting anecdotes from the series and "things to watch for" when screening episodes. Milner's "all-American guy" demeanor and Maharis' "I'll-give-you-my-opinion-whether-you-want-to-hear-it-or-not" ring through in recollections captured in his interviews. Worth the money? I think so. This is a gem of a show from an age that's all too quickly passing from collective memory and appreciation. "Route 66"; "The Fugitive"; "Ben Casey". They just don't make 'em like that anymore. Today's gritty realism only serves to illustrate how savage our society has become, and how our appreciation for substantive writing and acting has dulled - a sad commentary indeed. So break out the shades, hop in, start the engine, and prepare to take an informative ride into the past. I believe you'll find it enjoyable. And by the way, check out the new "Route 66: The Complete Series" upcoming DVD release in May. Invest a few hours, and you'll become a fan too!

I am a little disappointed. The first part of this book contains interesting interviews about the making of the show which I find fascinating. But the remaining 80 percent of the book is a series of plot summaries for each episode. Well, I am a huge fan of the show so I am already familiar with these stories. I was hoping for more details about the ins and outs of the show

A good reference for the series’ episodes but it’s light on the internal mechanics/discussions of the show. Still, if you’re a fan of the TV show, it’s a must have.

My interest in the show has been reignited by RTV's daily reruns so I bought the book. I wasn't expecting something as comprehensive as The Outer Limits Companion (Schow and Fentzen) a great book that was amazingly and precisely detailed, but I expected more than a short overview of the production and (the bulk of the book) a synopsis of every episode (that did not reveal the ending). What I wanted was a more in-depth, much longer look at the making of the show. Watching R66 now, I'm astounded by the quality--just the incredible, complicated job of travelling from state to state with cast and crew for 4 seasons is something we will never see again in TV production. I'm convinced that if the show had been shot in color, it would have had a better run in syndication. I was going to buy the author's Naked City book--a show also run now by RTV--but now I'm not persuaded to.

I enjoyed this book, it's an easy read. The best part is the comments by the actors and directors but I would have liked more information on what it was like to film entirely on location, something that was unique. Also the bio on various people on the show was helpful.

"Route 66" was the show I most watched growing up. You can't imagine how excited I was to know there was a book written about the tv series. And while I very much enjoyed the book (and plan to keep it as a reference), I think a true "Route 66" book should have included FULL episode summaries (thus my only complaint about the book). If you loved the series, you'll like this book. Worth your time reading it.

The author has interviewed the stars as well as producers, directors, etc. He has commentary from them through the history of the series. A great way to read about the series. Also includes episode summaries which are handy when watching the series on DVD.I have also bought, Wagon Train and Adventures in Paradise, by the same author, and I plan on buying more of his books. Keep them coming.

Wonderful book. Very helpful when watching the DVD set as I did not see this show when originally broadcast. Helps me understand the behind the scenes information for each episode and makes the most interesting back story when seeing each episode.