The Strip: Las Vegas and the Architecture of the American Dream

Bought the book as a Christmas gift for my brother in law who lives in Vegas. I looked through the book before we wrapped & shipped it, and I was so impressed with the book that I am going to buy myself a copy. Once I have read through mine, then I will write a more through review. But, if you, or someone you know, love Las Vegas, I highly recommend this book.

I'm savoring the text, the overall approach to describing the one-of-a-kind evolution of this city--the stories behind how so many of us can be lured to the desert. This is NOT your typical hype book about Sin City; If you expect a coffee table book loaded with photos, this is not for you. But, BUT, if you are fascinated by the crafting of wordsmanship with anecdotes and observations along with a framework of architectural history... I double down guarantee you will be captivated. This book is also a keeper, you will want it on a convenient shelf, will probably dog ear pages -- things you will want to read aloud to friends who thought they knew all there was to know about trends, about people, about the WHY things are what they seem to be, about why sometimes they are not. I say again though, if you are not one who enjoys text that stimulates your thoughts and connecting random dots, there are many options to purchase for glitz and glitter. For me, when released , the price was already a bargain. It is just plain fun!!

So far, I am enjoying this book. I live in Vegas and I love the history, which is quite unique as perfectly good buildings are imploded to make way for new mega-resorts. The book is academically written with some cool photos and a great book jacket (cover).. My only gripe about the book is that when you remove the book jacket, the actual cover of the book is plain black. I'm sure this was done to save money, but I think it sucks especially because the jacket is really cool. Oftentimes when the jacket of a book is removed, the same image is printed on the cover. Not this one. I think it makes a good coffee table book and an interesting conversation starter especially for folks who either love or hate Vegas..

I’m disappointed in this book. While it’s readable, gorgeously illustrated and designed, and does a good job detailing the history of the strip, theoretically, the book is seriously lacking. It presents its subject matter, ironically, as a kind of facade. In other words, it merely re-presents every assumption everyone already has about Las Vegas and American culture. Missing are the many interesting, provocative ways Vegas betrays this image and explodes these myths. For an academic publication, including a revised dissertation, one would expect more depth. There are a great many recent works on architecture, cities and history that are much fuller than the rather thin frame this book offers. It takes everything at face value and offers nothing new in terms of critical thought and literature on either Vegas, American culture, or architecture. Buy it for the images and brief historical exposition, I suppose. But don’t expect a serious theoretical engagement with the city. That work still remains to be written.

I've visited Las Vegas every year for the last quarter century and have witnessed first hand the changes detailed in the book. Although I was aware of the various stages since 1990, this book explains why they happened and certainly provides a better understanding of the periods. I stayed at the Luxor when the Nile River was flowing and the MGM Grand when it was the Emerald City.But I have one complaint and that is there could have been a lot more photos. There were many, but just not enough. For example, a map of MGM's Grand Adventure would have been appreciated.

Great account of the history of the strip and casino resorts that make it what it is today.

Very interesting great pictures and wonderful history!

This book is entirely my personal jam. I love architecture as an expression of the time and place that created it and Las Vegas, being a playground of decadence and sin creates some amazing architecture. The book includes many photographs and splits Vegas construction into different periods which he connects well to the larger cultural trends in the United States and Vegas specifically.

Perfect product as advertised

Highly recommended for the lovers of Vegas' past & present architecture and all the hotels that has changed the skyline of this beautiful city. Delivered fast. No damage. Totally satisfied.

I have purchased this twice - both as gifts and they absolutely loved it! If You are a true Vegas fan and all about its roots - it's worth it 100%Our first copy was dirty - Amazon replaced it !

Great pictures.