George Barris (2) (1925–2015)

This book was very entertaining and all of the photos were high quality. There were several typographical errors throughout that were a bit distracting, but overall the quality of writing surpassed most other books of this subject matter that I've read. What I enjoyed most was the sheer and genuine enthusiasm that came through each page from the author; you can really tell this was written by someone who loves show rods and not a generic writer meant to talk about a subject. I also must disagree with some people that a lack of technical details hurts the quality. While it would be interesting to know every detail about each show rod, I rather prefer the personal approach through history and background. It might have been a good idea to include a bit more before each focus piece, but I don't think the absence hurts the book much. Definitely worth the time, if even just to check out the great photos.… (meer)

Ed (Big Daddy) Roth, George Barris, Dean Jeffries, Bob Reisner, Do you recognize any of these names? How about “The Boothill Express”, “The Red Baron”, “Lil Coffin”, or “The Fire Truck”
All of these men were custom car builders in the 60s and 70s along with many others. The four cars listed above were models put out by the Monogram Company shortly after these cars hit the show circuit. If you are into these cars then this is the book for you. There is commentary by such greats Darryl Starbird, Fritz Schenck, Gene Winfield and many more. This book covers many of these great cars with great pictures and commentary. Along with a section that is a discussion of many of the greats mentioned above about the cars and their part in the era. Let me say again that the photography is great and this is a must have for anyone that grew up in this era. The book has many great parts to it. Printed in China.… (meer)

I won this book as an “Early Reviewer” on LibraryThing and I am so glad that I did. I have always loved those crazy cars of the ’60s and ’70s and now I know more about them. This book is full of photos and history and is a very interesting read. Many of the cars covered are some of my favorites including: The Monkeemobile; the Munster Koach & Drag-u-la; and the great Silhouette! I also found some new cars that are now some of my favorites such as Vigilante and Hemisfear. I give the book four and a half stars only because I wish that it was longer! If you are a fan of show rods, or even Hot Wheels, I recommend this book.… (meer)

While I found this book to be interesting in relation to information on the vehicles and the pictures of each vehicle (including vehicles that became Matchbox Cars), I was disappointed in the lack of technical details. Most of the information presented for each vehicle is more of a brief history of who conceived the vehicles and who built them. Additionally, some information on who has and currently does own the vehicles (assuming they have survived until today) is also in evidence. However, I would have been interested in knowing some technical specifications of the vehicles and engine sizes. Anyone with a passing interest in cars may enjoy this book but any die hard car fanatic may be dissapointed in the lack of technical details.… (meer)