Cosplay: A History: The Builders, Fans, and Makers Who Bring Your Favorite Stories to Life

This was an interesting read about an interesting topic, but it could have easily been titled Star Wars, as that seems to be the main topic. Perhaps I read the description wrong, but I was expecting more about cosplay in general, not just interesting tidbits and then shoe-horning Star Wars into every aspect. Still, pretty interesting read.

This is a wonderful overview of cosplay, with many many color pictures. It is for people who enjoy participating, and also the milder fan like me--who go to some conventions but don't go in costume. This history really gave me a better understanding of the art, storytelling, and community of cosplay! Cosplay is really a celebration of fandom.The book is very well-written and planned out. There is too much in this book for me to describe, and I can tell it was a labor of love. So--Buy this book! Read this book!!

I was excited to see this on my library's shelf - and I'd be even more excited if it was what it said it was. It is NOT a history of Cosplay. It's more a history of Star Wars Cosplay, specifically the 501st Stormtroopers. So if white plastic armor is your thing, then this is the book for you.If, however, it is not - well, look elsewhere. There's little mention of any other genres. No Firefly/ Browncoats. No Elves or LOTR. No Kawaii or Lolita. No Doctor Who. (Which, it must be noted, was being cosplayed long before Star Wars.) Finally, no Steampunk. Not even a mention.Finally, the author states that historical re-enactors are cosplayers. Some are, but most are not. When your attire is carefully recreated from a historical document using period techniques, it's not quite the same as 3D printing your outfit.

A good overview of cosplay, slanted toward someone who loves star wars cosplay. But a good read!

I confess: I got this book from the library intending to skim the text, check out the pictures, and take it back. I wound up reading the whole book, cover-to-cover. This book covers all the corners of a hobby older than people think it is, and does it in an entertaining way. I can't recommend it enough!

Hilfreiche