Dive into the vivid, psychedelic journey of the Merry Pranksters, led by the enigmatic Ken Kesey, as they take a cross-country bus trip fueled by LSD and countercultural ideals. Tom Wolfe captures the essence of the 1960s, merging reality with the surreal to explore the boundaries of consciousness and society. Experience the electric atmosphere of a time when traditional norms were challenged and imaginative expansion was celebrated. A captivating blend of journalism and literature, this book immerses you in a riot of colors, sounds, and radical ideas. 'The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test' is not just a recounting of events; it's an invitation to question everything and embrace the untamed spirit of a generation.
By Tom Wolfe
Published: 2008
""You’re either on the bus or off the bus.""
Tom Wolfe's The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test ushered in an era of New Journalism, "An American classic" (Newsweek) that defined a generation. "An astonishing book" (The New York Times Book Review) and an unflinching portrait of Ken Kesey, his Merry Pranksters, LSD, and the 1960s.
Tom Wolfe (1930-2018) was a renowned American author and journalist, celebrated for his contributions to the New Journalism movement. His notable works include 'The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test,' 'I Am Charlotte Simmons,' and 'A Man in Full,' among others. Wolfe was known for his distinctive, flamboyant writing style, characterized by vivid imagery and sharp social commentary, often delving into the complexities of American culture and society.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In “Crush It!”, Gary Vaynerchuk ignites a passion for pursuing your dreams by harnessing the power of social media. He shares his own journey from a struggling wine retailer to a successful entrepreneur, demonstrating that authenticity and hard work can lead to incredible success. With practical advice and invigorating stories, Vaynerchuk inspires readers to turn their passions into profitable businesses. He emphasizes the importance of personal branding in today’s digital age, encouraging everyone to share their voices boldly. Ready to transform your passion into a thriving career? Dive in and discover how to “crush it!” today!
In 'Amusing Ourselves to Death', Neil Postman explores the alarming impact of television and entertainment on public discourse and critical thought. He argues that a culture inundated with superficial media is prioritizing distraction over meaningful communication. Postman presents a compelling critique of how entertainment values undermine the seriousness of important issues. Through sharp analysis and wit, he warns against the perils of living in a world where information is merely amusement. This provocative work invites readers to reflect on their own media consumption and its implications for democracy and intellect.
In 'Catch and Kill', investigative journalist Ronan Farrow uncovers the harrowing truth behind allegations of sexual assault against powerful figures in Hollywood. As he delves deeper, he faces a complex web of intimidation and cover-ups that threaten his career and safety. This gripping narrative exposes the lengths to which some will go to silence survivors and protect the status quo. Farrow's relentless pursuit of the truth not only reveals shocking secrets but also highlights the systemic issues within media and culture. A riveting must-read that challenges readers to confront uncomfortable realities.
In 'Propaganda,' Edward L. Bernays unveils the art and science behind manipulating public perception. Often dubbed the father of public relations, Bernays shares how he harnessed the power of media to shape opinions and consumer behavior. This groundbreaking work walks readers through historical case studies that reveal the hidden forces driving societal change. With insights that resonate today, Bernays challenges us to consider the ethical implications of influence and persuasion. Prepare to dive into a world where thoughts are crafted and reality is molded - are you ready to see behind the curtain?
In 'The Curse of the Mogul,' a trio of sharp economic minds dissect the turbulent saga of the media moguls who rose to power and fell from grace. With a mix of historical insight and incisive analysis, Knee, Greenwald, and Seave expose the flawed strategies that led to disastrous outcomes for these titans. Readers will uncover the inherent pitfalls of ambition and the temptations of the media landscape. This compelling narrative weaves together personal stories with economic theories, revealing the true cost of success. Can the lessons learned from these moguls’ downfalls shed light on the future of media management?
In Jane Austen's 'Emma,' we meet the charming and confident Emma Woodhouse, a young woman who fancies herself a matchmaker. Yet, as she meddles in the romantic lives of her friends, her well-meaning schemes lead to unexpected complications and misunderstandings. Through wit and social commentary, Austen unveils the folly of Emma's arrogance and the complexities of love. Will Emma learn from her mistakes before it's too late? Step into a world of humor, intrigue, and the quest for self-awareness in this timeless classic.
In 'The Attention Merchants,' Tim Wu unveils the captivating history of how our attention has become the most valuable commodity in the modern world. From the dawn of advertising to the rise of social media, Wu meticulously chronicles the evolution of industries that thrive on capturing and selling our focus. As he exposes the tactics employed by powerful corporations, readers are compelled to question the very nature of their relationship with technology and media. With sharp insights and engaging narratives, Wu challenges us to consider the cost of distraction and the importance of reclaiming our attention. This thought-provoking journey leaves readers pondering: can we resist the lure of the attention economy?
In 'How to Have Impossible Conversations', Peter Boghossian and James Lindsay equip readers with powerful tools to engage in difficult dialogues without succumbing to hostility or misunderstanding. The authors dissect the psychology behind communication barriers, offering innovative strategies to navigate contentious topics with confidence. From exploring the art of persuasion to understanding the importance of empathy, this book is a roadmap for transforming fraught exchanges into productive discussions. Whether debating politics, ethics, or personal beliefs, readers will discover how to foster meaningful conversations that bridge divides. Unlock the secrets to effective dialogue and learn to embrace the challenges of conversation like never before!
Showing 8 of 24 similar books

John Green is an American author, YouTuber, and educator, best known for his best-selling novels The Fault in Our Stars and Looking for Alaska. Green's writing often explores themes of love, loss, and the complexity of adolescence, resonating with both young adults and adults alike. He is also the co-creator of the YouTube channels Vlogbrothers and CrashCourse, where he educates viewers on history, literature, and science in an engaging, accessible way. Green is known for his deep empathy and ability to connect with readers through emotionally powerful storytelling. His work in literature and online education has made him a beloved figure in both media and education circles.

Kevin Rose is a notable entrepreneur and technology investor, best known for founding Digg, a pioneering social news website that significantly influenced online content sharing. Although not primarily recognized for literary contributions, Rose has impacted digital media and online culture, which are recurring themes in contemporary literature on technology. His insights and experiences have been featured in various tech journals and books, enriching discussions on innovation and digital entrepreneurship. Rose also co-hosted the popular podcast "The Random Show" with Tim Ferriss, where he shares his thoughts on technology, health, and productivity. Through his ventures and public speaking, Rose continues to inspire narratives around the digital revolution and startup culture.

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

Diana Kimball is an entrepreneur, author, and founder of the mentorship platform Mentor List, which connects people looking for guidance with industry leaders. Kimball is a champion for personal and professional development, emphasizing the power of mentorship to foster growth and build meaningful connections. She has worked in product management and marketing roles at companies like Twitter and Microsoft, bringing her unique insights into tech and community building. Kimball also speaks and writes on topics related to leadership, career development, and the importance of empathy in the workplace. Her work has helped people build stronger networks and pursue their goals with purpose.

Frank Chimero is a renowned designer, illustrator, and author best known for his influential book "The Shape of Design," which explores the philosophy and practice of design. His work emphasizes the intersection of creativity and human experience, earning him a respected place in both the design and literary communities. Chimero has contributed essays and lectures that have inspired a new generation of thinkers in the creative industries. He has also been recognized for his ability to distill complex ideas into accessible, thought-provoking content. Beyond his writing, Chimero's design projects and illustrations have been featured in numerous prestigious publications and exhibitions.

John Maeda is a designer, technologist, and thought leader known for his work at the intersection of technology, design, and leadership. A former president of the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), Maeda has been a strong advocate for integrating art and design with technology to drive innovation. He is currently the Chief Technology Officer at Everbridge and has previously held leadership roles at Automattic (the parent company of WordPress) and KPCB, a venture capital firm. Maeda’s work explores the role of creativity in technology, and he is known for his insightful talks and books, including The Laws of Simplicity and Redesigning Leadership. He has been instrumental in promoting the idea of “design thinking” in business and has influenced a generation of designers and technologists to approach problem-solving with creativity. Maeda is also a prolific speaker, frequently sharing his ideas on the future of design and its role in shaping the modern world.

Ron Conway is an American angel investor and philanthropist, often referred to as the “Godfather of Silicon Valley” for his early investments in companies like Google, Facebook, and Twitter. As the founder of SV Angel, Conway has backed hundreds of startups and played a key role in the growth of the tech industry. He is known for his extensive network and ability to connect entrepreneurs with the resources they need to succeed. In addition to his work in tech, Conway is involved in philanthropy, particularly in areas like education and public health. His contributions to both Silicon Valley and charitable causes have earned him widespread recognition.

Harry Styles is a British singer, songwriter, and actor, best known as a member of the globally successful boy band One Direction before launching a successful solo career. Styles’ solo work has earned critical acclaim for its blend of rock, pop, and indie influences, with hits like Sign of the Times and Watermelon Sugar. In addition to music, Styles has also made a mark in fashion, known for his gender-fluid style and collaborations with brands like Gucci. He is also an actor, starring in films like Dunkirk and Don't Worry Darling. Styles is recognized for his artistic versatility and cultural impact.
Showing 8 of 21 related collections
“"You’re either on the bus or off the bus."”
The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test
By Tom Wolfe
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.