Beginning postmodernism /

As its title indicates, this book is for beginners, but old-timers in the field can also profit from it as a handy review of the subject. It is by far the best introduction to postmodernism that this reviewer has read. Writing with uncommon clarity and directness, Woods traces the historical and intellectual background of postmodernism and then illustrates the effects of postmodernism on philosophy and cultural theory, literature, architecture, visual arts, pop culture (music, film, TV), and the social sciences. In addition, the author "tries to show how postmodernism has permeated such scientific and aesthetic enterprises as sources of money, models of government, literary experimentation, commercialism, physical movements of the body, and urban developments." In short, Woods demonstrates that we inhabit a thoroughly postmodern world, and he lucidly defines the human situation within such a world. Very useful annotated bibliography. A candidate for all academic libraries, this book could serve as required reading for courses on postmodernism. C. G. Masinton; University of Kansas

How ironic: a treatment of postmodernism that is, according to the blurb on the back cover, "clear, accessible and step-by-step." And yet it's true. Woods (Univ. of Wales, Aberystwyth; The Ethics in Literature) capably surveys the nearly impassable terrain of his subject without extenuating its quirks, subtleties, and controversies. In a series of chapters organized by discipline, he discusses manifestations of postmodernism in philosophy, literature, architecture, the visual arts, pop culture and music, film and video, and the social sciences. His inclusive approach treats postmodernism as a cultural condition, a critical perspective, and an aesthetic fashion. Students and curious general readers will appreciate Woods's carefully organized text and will want to investigate the numerous works he cites throughout. Intended primarily as a classroom text for undergraduates, this is the first book in the publisher's "Beginnings" series. Recommended for larger public and academic libraries.--Dean C. Rowan, Whittier P.L., CA (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.