Chicagoist: The Results!

martha

Mon, 07 Aug 2006 12:49:16 -0600

It´s actually critically acclaimed. The Washington Post called it brilliant, The New York Times called it darkly captivating, etc., and I doubt any of those critics were hanging around Belmont back in the 80´s. Everyone has different tastes, but I don´t think it´s a bad thing that so many people have a personal affection for this book and found it fun to read.

Thad

Tue, 01 Aug 2006 14:57:41 -0600

Stupid question: So much praise I've heard over the years for this book has to do with nostalgia for the old punk scence. How much does nostalgia factor into your tastes in art and literatuure? (I realize this post is old, therefore probably won't get seen by many, but I'd thought I'd ask.) Disclosure: While the book is well written and most entertaining, I don't really think "American Skin" is a great book by any means.

james

Tue, 01 Aug 2006 14:15:52 -0600

so, do i get a prize? huh, huh, do i? [i'd settle for a beer, though ;)

doggo

Tue, 01 Aug 2006 13:37:15 -0600

This is a great book if you were part of the hardcore scene back in the 80s. It'll make ya cry with nostalgia. You may have to shave your head just for old times sake. But beside the notalgia appeal, this is a great read too. Degrazia's a great writer. So crank up some Naked Raygun, lace up yer books, pop open an Old Style and get into it!

doggo

Tue, 01 Aug 2006 13:35:34 -0600

Margaret

Mon, 31 Jul 2006 12:27:22 -0600

A book doesn't have to be the deepest thing ever to be a good book right? I'm looking forward to it and will read it with an open mind.

james

Mon, 31 Jul 2006 09:56:13 -0600

i am so honored with the shout out. literary snobs [the same sorts who are prone to worship of royko without ever having met the guy] may smirk and sniff, but it's a great read, especially for summer. and the author is a writing teacher at columbia if that counts for anything. just try to resist the 'i coulda written this' thoughts, because well, you [and i] didn't and degrazia did. it's especially fun if you were part of that scene, trying to decipher who the actual people were who he fictionalizes.