Pulphead

by John Jeremiah Sullivan
Pulphead cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Essays / Essay Collections
Technical:
  • ID: 691
  • Added: 2025-09-19
  • Updated: 2025-09-20
  • ISBN: 9781429995047
  • Publisher: FSG Originals
  • Published: 2011-10-25
  • Formats: 26
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £18.99

John Jeremiah Sullivan takes readers on an exhilarating journey through America's diverse cultural landscape, from the depths of the Ozarks to the glamour of MTV's Real World. With a laid-back, erudite Southern charm, Sullivan explores the lives of forgotten geniuses, the impact of natural disasters, and the enduring legacy of musical icons. His essays are a blend of gonzo energy and witty insight, offering a unique perspective on the American experience. /n/nSullivan's work is not just a collection of observations but a unifying narrative that tells the story of this country in a way we've never seen before. From the blues of the South to the aftermath of Katrina, each essay peels back layers of society, revealing the sob-guffaws that attest to the power of his writing.

Reviews
The Guardian · 2012-08-09
Excellent 4.50

The collection is engaging, intelligent, and entertaining, offering a mix of humor and sharp observations. The essays are well-crafted and reflect a deep understanding of American culture.

This reviewer found the collection wonderfully engaging and intelligent, appreciating the lucid and entertaining style. The essays are not only amusing but also offer sharp insights into various aspects of American life. The reviewer particularly enjoyed the humor and the way the essays draw together disparate subjects with a cohesive voice. Overall, it's a delightful read that balances wit and depth.

Quick quotes

    This collection is wonderfully engaging, lucid, intelligent, entertaining, interesting and amusing.

    The first pleasure of Pulphead is that it’s a book you can read in any order.

    Sullivan has a knack for finding the extraordinary in the ordinary.

Electric Literature · 2011-10-28
Fantastic 4.50

The book is both funny and respectful, honoring the subjects of the essays. Sullivan's writing is engaging and full of wit.

This reviewer praises Sullivan's ability to make the reader laugh without ever mocking the subjects of his essays. The book is described as LOL funny, but it's the respect and depth Sullivan shows towards his subjects that truly stand out. The essays are engaging and full of wit, making the collection a joy to read. The reviewer appreciates the balance Sullivan strikes between humor and sincerity, creating a body of work that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Quick quotes

    Generously, Sullivan honors each of these people's trust in the written piece.

    The book is LOL funny, but he never once makes a joke at one of their expenses.

    Sullivan's writing is engaging and full of wit.

The New York Times · 2011-10-27
Great 4.00

The book captures the essence of the South with a mix of humor and self-mockery. It features a variety of subjects tied together by Sullivan's unique voice.

This reviewer highlights Sullivan's ability to capture the 'tragic spell of the South' with a blend of humor and self-awareness. The essays cover a range of topics, from music to pop culture, and are held together by Sullivan's distinctive voice. While the book has its share of grotesques, it ultimately offers a sharp-eyed and humane tour of America. The reviewer appreciates the depth and variety of the essays, making the collection a compelling read.

Quick quotes

    Sullivan refers to with only slight self-mockery as 'the tragic spell of the South.'

    The book has its grotesques, for sure.

    A sharp-eyed, uniquely humane tour of America's cultural landscape.

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