The Making of Star Trek : Book Review

"The Making of Star Trek" by Stephen E. Whitfield is a comprehensive and captivating exploration of the beloved television show's creation. Whitfield takes readers on a fascinating journey, starting from the early stages of conceptualizing "Star Trek" to its eventual triumph and lasting cultural influence.

The book delves into the origins of the show, providing valuable insight into the visionary minds of its creators, Gene Roddenberry and Desilu Studios. Readers get an intimate look into the challenges faced by Roddenberry and the studio in trying to sell the idea and secure a network slot, as well as the hurdles encountered in assembling the talented cast and crew.

Whitfield's research is meticulous, resulting in a vivid and engrossing portrayal of the show's history. He goes beyond the production aspects and delves into the philosophical and social themes that "Star Trek" tackled. The book showcases how the show fearlessly pushed boundaries and addressed pressing issues of the time, including race, gender, and morality. "Star Trek" truly challenged societal norms, and Whitfield expertly captures the significance of this remarkable aspect.

From the writing process to the intricacies of costume design and special effects, Whitfield provides in-depth insights into every facet of the show's creation. This attention to detail, combined with his engaging writing style, guarantees an exceptional reading experience for fans and non-fans alike.

"The Making of Star Trek" is far more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane. It is a tribute to the enduring legacy of the show and its tremendous impact on popular culture. Whitfield's book celebrates the creativity and perseverance that went into bringing "Star Trek" to life and serves as a testament to the show's everlasting influence.

What are readers saying?

Stephen E. Whitfield's book, "The Making of Star Trek," has garnered a diverse range of reviews. While some readers laud its meticulous research and valuable insights into the creation of the iconic TV series, others criticize its dry writing style and lack of engaging storytelling.

Numerous reviewers commend Whitfield's thoroughness and attention to detail in documenting the behind-the-scenes process of developing "Star Trek." They appreciate the comprehensive look into the show's production, spanning from initial concepts to casting and the challenges faced in its early years. Fans particularly enjoy the abundance of information and revealing anecdotes about their favorite characters and episodes.

However, some readers find "The Making of Star Trek" to be unengaging and academic in its writing style. They perceive the book as more of a technical manual than an entertaining narrative, which makes it challenging to maintain interest. These readers had expected a storytelling approach that would bring the production process to life.

Critics of the book also point out its lack of balance in focus. They argue that Whitfield devotes excessive attention to certain aspects of the show's creation, such as network interference or internal conflicts, while neglecting others. This imbalance leaves some readers dissatisfied with the overall portrayal of the making of "Star Trek."

Additionally, the book's content is deemed specific to the original series of "Star Trek" by some reviewers. This specificity may limit its appeal to readers who are unfamiliar with or uninterested in this particular iteration of the franchise. While fans of the original series appreciate the depth of information provided, others would have preferred a broader exploration encompassing the entire "Star Trek" franchise.

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