The Photobook: A History Volume III

Parr and Badger present the third and final volume in their series covering the photobook, with highlights from over 200 titles spanning the post-WWII era to the present, many of which were self-published or whose makers remain anonymous. Topics vary widely, from propaganda and protest to sex, identity, and memory, to found photography. All 200 covers and several interior pages from each photobook have been reproduced, resulting in an incredible visual feast of styles and subject matter from around the globe. Further, each volume is meticulously described, as is its photographer, in accompanying essays. Highlights include Ken Schles's haunting images from Invisible City, Todd Hido's groundbreaking House Hunting, and Sophie Calle's recent book about her mother's death, Rachel, Monique. While many books deal with death, war, and atrocities, there are several humorous gems, such as Joachim Schmid's volume of found photographs, Size Matters, and Jiao Putta's government-produced food shots in Catalogue of Meat Products. Contemporary art and photo lovers will appreciate Parr and Badger's wealth of knowledge about modern photography. 800 color illus. (Mar.)