Extraordinary Ordinary People: Five American Masters of Traditional Arts : Book Review

"Extraordinary Ordinary People" by Alan Govenar is a captivating exploration of the lives and contributions of various folk and traditional artists in the United States. Govenar beautifully portrays the richness and diversity of American cultural heritage through a series of interviews, personal anecdotes, and visually-engaging photographs.

This book delves into the lives of these extraordinary artists who have dedicated their lives to preserving and passing on traditional art forms such as music, dance, storytelling, and craftwork. Govenar skillfully highlights their struggles, triumphs, and unique perspectives, showcasing their unwavering passion and commitment to their craft.

What truly sets "Extraordinary Ordinary People" apart is Govenar's ability to provide a comprehensive view of these artists' impact on their respective communities. By delving into their personal stories and experiences, he emphasizes the significant role they play in preserving cultural traditions and fostering a sense of identity and belonging.

Govenar's narrative style is immersive and engaging, effectively allowing readers to connect with and deeply appreciate the artists and their art forms. Moreover, the inclusion of visually captivating photographs adds an additional layer of richness, enabling readers to gain a deeper understanding of the artists' work and cultural context.

Overall, "Extraordinary Ordinary People" is a highly recommended read for anyone interested in American folk and traditional arts. Govenar's evident passion for the subject matter shines through, and his ability to showcase the diversity and richness of American culture is truly remarkable. This book serves as a testament to the importance of preserving and celebrating the artistic traditions that have shaped our society.

What are readers saying?

"Extraordinary Ordinary People" by Alan Govenar has received a variety of reviews from readers. The book delves into the lives of musicians and dancers who have made significant contributions to their respective art forms. While some readers found the stories captivating and motivational, others felt that the book lacked depth and failed to truly capture the essence of the individuals it portrayed.

Many readers praised the diverse range of individuals featured in the book, appreciating the valuable insights into lesser-known artists. From blues musicians to flamenco dancers, Govenar's selection of subjects was considered a strength. Readers found it enriching to learn about these extraordinary individuals and their impact on their art forms.

However, some reviewers felt that the book fell short in truly capturing the essence of the portrayed individuals. They found the writing to be superficial, desiring more personal anecdotes and stories that would allow them to connect with the subjects on a deeper level. This left some readers feeling disconnected and unsatisfied with their overall reading experience.

Another recurring criticism was the book's structure, which some readers found confusing and disjointed. They felt that the chapters abruptly shifted focus between different artists and their stories, making it difficult to fully engage with the book and follow the narrative flow.

Despite these criticisms, many readers still appreciated the book for shedding light on the often overlooked contributions of these extraordinary artists. They found the stories inspiring and commended Govenar for showcasing the work of musicians and dancers who have made a lasting impact on their respective art forms.

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