From Amazon
This encyclopedic look at the Federal Bureau of Investigation takes advantage of changes in the Freedom of Information Act to move beyond the typical glamorized or sensational portrayal of this government agency to a scholarly, evenhanded account that places it within a greater historical context. It may be textbook in nature, but the guide still makes for entertaining reading, especially its "Notable Cases" chapter, organized by decade, which covers John Dillinger, the murder of Medgar Evers, Watergate, the World Trade Center bombing, and the Unabomber, among others. Another chapter examines the role of the G-man in popular culture over the last century by looking at the portrayal of agents in comics, movies, TV, and radio.
The writers are a distinguished cast of university professors who have researched the FBI, written extensively about it, or gleaned an insider's knowledge of the organization. Most notable among these is Susan Rosenfeld, who served as the FBI's first official historian from 1984 to 1992. Each chapter, whether covering controversies or traditions within the bureau, portrays the agency's relations to the media, the president, Congress, or other law enforcement agencies, including previously unreleased details regarding the FBI's facilities and organizational structure. The guide also includes numerous surveillance and arrest photos, as well as demographics on bureau employees. It's useful for both those researching the FBI and those who are simply intrigued by the agency's complex role in American history. --Jodi Mailander Farrell
From Library Journal
This readable reference guide to the Federal Bureau of Investigation does not disappoint. The first three chapters explore the history of the bureau, with separate essays addressing its role and powers, notable cases, and controversies. Chapter 8, "The FBI in American Popular Culture," is nearly a book in itself, with its thorough examination of the bureau's image in books, magazines, radio, television, and the movies. On the more practical side, there are chapters on the agency's traditions, organization, relationship to other governmental agencies, and physical facilities. Also included are thumbnail biographies of FBI luminaries, a time line of crucial events in its history, and a substantial annotated bibliography of books and articles. The book is peppered with photographs and factual tables. While not inexpensive, it is visually appealing and packed with information. Highly recommended for all reference collections. [Editor Theoharis is a leading scholar on the FBI and author of a noted J. Edgar Hoover biography, The Boss, LJ 6/1/88.?Ed.]?Patrick Petit, Catholic Univ. Law Lib., Beltsville, M.
-?Patrick Petit, Catholic Univ. Law Lib., Beltsville, MDCopyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to the
Hardcover
edition.