Dive into the vivid, psychedelic journey of the Merry Pranksters, led by the enigmatic Ken Kesey, as they take a cross-country bus trip fueled by LSD and countercultural ideals. Tom Wolfe captures the essence of the 1960s, merging reality with the surreal to explore the boundaries of consciousness and society. Experience the electric atmosphere of a time when traditional norms were challenged and imaginative expansion was celebrated. A captivating blend of journalism and literature, this book immerses you in a riot of colors, sounds, and radical ideas. 'The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test' is not just a recounting of events; it's an invitation to question everything and embrace the untamed spirit of a generation.
By Tom Wolfe
Published: 2008
""You’re either on the bus or off the bus.""
Tom Wolfe's The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test ushered in an era of New Journalism, "An American classic" (Newsweek) that defined a generation. "An astonishing book" (The New York Times Book Review) and an unflinching portrait of Ken Kesey, his Merry Pranksters, LSD, and the 1960s.
Showing 8 of 30 similar books
David Heinemeier Hansson, also known as DHH, is a Danish programmer, entrepreneur, and author, best known as the creator of Ruby on Rails, a popular web application framework. Heinemeier Hansson is also a partner at Basecamp, a project management and collaboration software company he co-founded. His contributions to software development have earned him widespread recognition, with Ruby on Rails being used by thousands of developers and companies worldwide. Heinemeier Hansson is also a vocal advocate for remote work, simplicity in business, and sustainable work practices, ideas he explores in his bestselling books Rework and It Doesn’t Have to Be Crazy at Work. In addition to his work in tech, he is an accomplished race car driver, having competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Heinemeier Hansson’s approach to work-life balance and entrepreneurship has made him a thought leader in the tech community, where he continues to challenge traditional business practices and advocate for more human-centered approaches to work
Janet Mock is an acclaimed writer, director, and transgender rights activist known for her groundbreaking memoir, "Redefining Realness," which became a New York Times bestseller. She followed this with "Surpassing Certainty," further cementing her voice in contemporary literature. Mock's work has not only highlighted her own journey but also brought vital visibility to the transgender community. In addition to her literary achievements, she has made significant contributions to television, notably as a writer, director, and producer for the series "Pose." Through her multifaceted career, Mock has become a powerful advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and an influential figure in modern storytelling.
Dave Chappelle is an American comedian, actor, and writer, widely regarded as one of the greatest stand-up comedians of all time. He gained fame with Chappelle’s Show, a sketch comedy series that offered sharp social commentary on race, politics, and culture. After stepping away from the show at the height of its popularity, Chappelle made a triumphant return to stand-up and has since released several acclaimed specials on Netflix. Known for his fearless humor and insightful critiques of society, Chappelle’s influence on comedy is profound. He continues to perform and speak on issues of race, identity, and justice.
Ana Lorena Fabrega is an innovative educator and author passionate about reimagining education. Known as “Ms. Fab,” she is the Chief Evangelist at Synthesis, an education startup inspired by the problem-solving and collaboration model used at SpaceX. She advocates for alternative learning methods, encouraging curiosity and creativity in students. Ana's work emphasizes the importance of engaging young learners in real-world challenges and critical thinking. She also shares insights on education reform through her popular newsletter, Fab Fridays.
Harry Styles is a British singer, songwriter, and actor, best known as a member of the globally successful boy band One Direction before launching a successful solo career. Styles’ solo work has earned critical acclaim for its blend of rock, pop, and indie influences, with hits like Sign of the Times and Watermelon Sugar. In addition to music, Styles has also made a mark in fashion, known for his gender-fluid style and collaborations with brands like Gucci. He is also an actor, starring in films like Dunkirk and Don't Worry Darling. Styles is recognized for his artistic versatility and cultural impact.
Jon Stewart is an American comedian, writer, and former host of The Daily Show, where he gained fame for his satirical take on news and politics. Stewart transformed The Daily Show into a critical voice in American media, blending humor with hard-hitting commentary on political and social issues. After stepping down from the show, Stewart has continued to advocate for causes like 9/11 first responders and veterans' rights. He is also a filmmaker, directing the political satire film Irresistible. Stewart remains a significant figure in American culture, known for his wit, activism, and influence on political discourse.
Ann Handley is a renowned digital marketing pioneer and a Wall Street Journal bestselling author. She is the author of "Everybody Writes," a seminal guide on creating compelling content, and co-author of "Content Rules," which outlines effective content marketing strategies. As the Chief Content Officer at MarketingProfs, she has significantly influenced modern marketing practices. Handley is also a highly sought-after keynote speaker, known for her insights on digital content and marketing trends. Her work has empowered countless marketers to elevate their content creation and strategy efforts.
Diana Kimball is an entrepreneur, author, and founder of the mentorship platform Mentor List, which connects people looking for guidance with industry leaders. Kimball is a champion for personal and professional development, emphasizing the power of mentorship to foster growth and build meaningful connections. She has worked in product management and marketing roles at companies like Twitter and Microsoft, bringing her unique insights into tech and community building. Kimball also speaks and writes on topics related to leadership, career development, and the importance of empathy in the workplace. Her work has helped people build stronger networks and pursue their goals with purpose.
Showing 8 of 17 related collections
“"You’re either on the bus or off the bus."”
The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test
By Tom Wolfe
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Tom Wolfe (1930-2018) was a renowned American author and journalist, celebrated for his contributions to the New Journalism movement. His notable works include 'The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test,' 'I Am Charlotte Simmons,' and 'A Man in Full,' among others. Wolfe was known for his distinctive, flamboyant writing style, characterized by vivid imagery and sharp social commentary, often delving into the complexities of American culture and society.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In 'Steal Like an Artist,' Austin Kleon unveils the unconventional art of borrowing ideas, encouraging readers to embrace creativity by stealing from the world around them. He argues that all creativity is derived from influence, and shares ten transformative principles to unlock your creative potential. Through witty anecdotes and practical advice, Kleon inspires you to find your own voice while respecting the influences that shape you. This isn't just a book for artists; it's a manifesto for anyone seeking to break free from the confines of originality. Discover how to turn your unique experiences into a masterpiece by learning to remix and reinvent!
In 'Amusing Ourselves to Death', Neil Postman explores the alarming impact of television and entertainment on public discourse and critical thought. He argues that a culture inundated with superficial media is prioritizing distraction over meaningful communication. Postman presents a compelling critique of how entertainment values undermine the seriousness of important issues. Through sharp analysis and wit, he warns against the perils of living in a world where information is merely amusement. This provocative work invites readers to reflect on their own media consumption and its implications for democracy and intellect.
In 'Dear Girls,' comedian Ali Wong delivers a heartfelt and hilarious collection of letters to her daughters, blending personal anecdotes with sharp wit. With her signature humor, she navigates the complexities of motherhood, marriage, and her immigrant background. Wong addresses everything from body image to the challenges of balancing career and family, offering both candid advice and comical reflections. As she shares her triumphs and missteps, readers are drawn into her unique perspective on life. This book is not just a guide for her daughters but a relatable journey for anyone who has faced the ups and downs of growing up.
In a puritanical town gripped by paranoia and fear, 'The Crucible' reveals the devastating consequences of mass hysteria as accusations of witchcraft spiral out of control. Characterized by its rich allegory to the McCarthy trials, Arthur Miller’s play navigates the murky waters of morality, integrity, and the human spirit’s fragility. As innocent lives are caught in the web of deceit, the characters confront their deepest convictions and the true cost of survival. Tension escalates as friendships disintegrate and reputations are shattered, prompting readers to question the nature of truth in a world defined by fear. Will justice triumph, or will the crucible of human nature lead to irrevocable destruction?
In 'White,' Bret Easton Ellis unveils a provocative exploration of contemporary culture, identity, and the complexities of modern existence. Through a series of candid essays, he confronts the absurdities of privilege, fame, and the pervasive nature of social media. Ellis challenges readers to reflect on the meaning of authenticity in a world obsessed with image. As he oscillates between personal anecdotes and cultural critique, he sparks debate on race, politics, and the art of storytelling. Prepare to be intrigued and unsettled by his unapologetic voice in a narrative that blurs the lines between truth and fiction.
Dive into the phenomenon of Facebook through David Kirkpatrick's eye-opening narrative. This engaging exploration unveils how a simple college project transformed into a global communication powerhouse. Discover the fascinating characters behind its creation and the challenges they faced along the way. Kirkpatrick delves into the societal impact of social media, raising questions about privacy, identity, and connection in a digital age. Prepare to be intrigued by the force that changed how we interact forever!
No summary available
In 'Irresistible', Adam Alter reveals the compelling forces behind our obsession with technology and the addictive nature of modern distractions. He uncovers how these influences manipulate our behaviors, often leading us to make choices we later regret. As he dissects the psychology of addiction, Alter offers eye-opening insights that question our relationship with screens and social media. This book isn’t just about technology; it’s a wake-up call to reclaim our attention and prioritize what truly matters. Prepare to rethink your daily habits and discover the keys to enjoying a more fulfilling life.