Nevada 24/7

Following the success of "America 24/7," the publishers have released a digital photography book of all fifty states. While all of the titles in the series are beautiful, Nevada's is especially stunning. First off, the book is physically large (13 x 10.5), so the images have additional impact. While the natural environment is depicted, the book's focus is people. From weddings and school children to ranchers and Elvis impersonators, the book dramatically depicts what visitors and residents do in the state. From the Star Trek Experience to the Pyramid Lake Paiute Reservation, the book shows the diverse faces of Nevada. A balance of attention is given to both rural and urban places. "Nevada 24/7" is organized thematically as it explores dynamics such as recreation, economics and family life. Imagery is the focus as text is limited to descriptions of the photos. Given the de-emphasis of the written word, most readers will finish the book in about a half an hour. While being a self-described composite of amateur and professional images, the end result clearly favors the pro shots. It seems a bit like the premise may have been a gimmick to generate enthusiasm for the series. As with "Dogs 24/7" and "Cats 24/7," this is a tiny tragedy since the professional shots tend to be the most interesting. The most conservative of parents may object to some of the content. As would be expected, a couple of pages feature brothels. Also, there's a photo that shows topless bikers. The introduction is written by luminary John L. Smith. As a summary of the state, Smith wrote the single most succinct yet poetic summary that I've come across. As an upbeat visual primer and celebration of the Silver State, "Nevada 24/7" is spectacular.