Hip: The History - by John Leland (Paperback)

From the Back Cover

Hip: The History is the story of how American pop culture has evolved throughout the twentieth century to its current position as world cultural touchstone. How did hip become such an obsession? From sex and music to fashion and commerce, John Leland tracks the arc of ideas as they move from subterranean Bohemia to Madison Avenue and back again. Hip: The History examines how hip has helped shape -- and continues to influence -- America's view of itself, and provides an incisive account of hip's quest for authenticity.

Review Quotes

"Who knew the story of Hip is actually the story of America? This is a nuanced, informative, enjoyable read that takes us from Africa to African Americans, deep into the cultural gumbo that is America. Hip: The History is the seminal work on the topic and a must read for all you hipsters!" - Fab 5 Freddy

"What is hip? If you have to ask, ask John Leland." - Joe Levy, Rolling Stone

"Hip: The History is the definitive work on the subject." - Paper Magazine

"Hip: The History is the seminal work on the topic and a must read for all you hipsters!" - Fab 5 Freddy

"The New York Times' John Leland offers an incisive, entertaining look at this peculiarly American cultural notion..." - Elle

"John Leland combines diligent research with insight and wit." - Paul Krassner, author of Murder at the Conspiracy Convention and Other Absurdities and editor of Magic Mushrooms and Other Highs: From Toad Slime to Ecstasy

"What is hip? If you have to ask, ask John Leland." - Joe Levy, Rolling Stone

"An insightful chronicle of cool." - Esquire

"John Leland covers it all in his essential book, Hip: The History." - Newsweek