The American Television Critic

Book excerpt: Aren't we all TV critics? It's a question that overlooks the importance of professional critics whose print and online columns reach large audiences. Their work helps viewers engage with programming and helps shape the conversations that arise. This book covers more than five decades of American criticism, from the early days to the present. Whether by praising or condemning programming trends, evaluating production and ratings, analyzing storylines or weighing in on policy decisions, a television critic's work is more than a consumer guide--it is part of a rich history that offers an insightful view of American culture.