Description
Book SynopsisA narrative history of the development of air conditioning from its beginnings to its current state, with an emphasis on its reception by members of the public.
Trade Review"Fascinating ... examines the technology and its penetration into American life." -First Things "Cool: How Air Conditioning Changed Everything provides history readers and social science students alike with a review of how air conditioning evolved and changed life in America, and is recommended not just for college collections but for any seeking a pairing of history and lively social insights." -Midwest Book Review "Charming ... Much fun ... short, sharp micro-history." -New Scientist "... A lively and endlessly informative tale about how air conditioning happened scientifically and what it has done for and to us." -The Common Reader "A look at our love affair with air-conditioning ... breezily anecdotal." -The New York Times "COOL tells the surprisingly suspenseful story of the development and gradual adoption of air conditioning in the United States. The puckish Basile is more than up to the task, and his copious research pays off: Not only is COOL an informative read, each chapter is strewn with more anecdotes than there are sprinkles on an ice cream cone. Some are hilarious; others, jaw-dropping. Best of all, each chapter leaves you wanting more." -American Scientist "Some surprising things you probably don't know about air conditioning." -Los Angeles Times "Snarky ... entertaining." -Weekly Standard "The all-encompassing guidebook to the history of air conditioning, chronicling the numerous gimmicks, failed attempts, con jobs, and eventual successes ... a surprisingly interesting journey." -San Francisco Book Review "A joy ... I wish you coolth!" -KCRW-FM
Table of ContentsIntroduction 1. Ice, Air, and Crowd Poison 2. The Wondrous Comfort of Ammonia 3. For Paper, Not People 4. Coolth: Everybody's Doing It 5. Big Ideas. Bold Concepts. Bad Timing. 6. From Home Front to Each Home 7. The Unnecessary, Unhealthy Luxury (that No One would Give Up)
