The Triumph of Narrative: Storytelling in the Age of Mass Culture

Fulford has opened my eyes to the significance of narrative. In this great reference to the many forms of narrative that are celebrated today and the past, Fulford combines a wonderful randition of thought provoking considerations which have helped me get through first year university english. It should be carried in every university student's backpack!

Fulford's slim and easily readable book provides a fascinating glimpse into the way we use stories and narratives today. He points out how gossip is the new American storytelling, how postmodern linguistic theorists have their heads stuck in the sand, and gives startling evidence for how Ivanhoe influenced the culture of the Old South. I have great respect for authors who can provide complex theories in easily readable, humorous prose, and Fulford certainly fits that particular bill. Great for undergrads and anyone who likes a good read.

An engaging, lucid and thoughtful exploration of the human impulse to tell stories, from urban legends to postmodernist theory. If I were still doing the academic thing I would be assigning this little book to first- and second-year history students. Since the text of this book was given as a series of lectures on CBC radio, it's a very fluid and easy read. Definitely worthwhile.