Saturday Night Live: Shaping TV Comedy and American Culture

Gr 5–8—In its 39 seasons, NBC's Saturday Night Live has both shaped and skewered American pop culture and politics, transformed little-known comedians into household names, and inspired the development of similarly edgy sketch comedy programs. Launched in 1975 by producer Lorne Michaels, the show has changed the way we think about comedy, television, and ourselves. It remains as relevant today as it has to viewers for almost four decades. Kaplan presents an overview of the late-night show by focusing on its more memorable characters, the ongoing challenge of cast diversity, its satirical political commentary, and its career-launching capacity. Including SNL content as recent as January 2014, this title provides a too-brief look at the show's rich history, highlighting recent cast members and characters whom the intended audience will be sure to recognize. As such, many former cast members and their characters are noticeably absent. Despite this shortcoming, the book design is attractive and accessible and features pertinent photographs and useful sidebars that expand the narrative. Among the additional resources is a catchphrase quiz. While Tom Shales's Live from New York: An Uncensored History of Saturday Night Live (Little, Brown, 2002), aimed at an adult audience, remains the most comprehensive account to date, Kaplan's slim volume provides currency and may encourage young fans to seek out more information about this cultural and comedic phenomenon.—Audrey Sumser, Cuyahoga County Public Library, Mayfield, OH