Twenty Ads That Shook the World: The Century's Most Groundbreaking Advertising and How It Changed Us All

(Paperback)

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In what is poised to be the seminal text on advertising, one of the US's most respected advertising and media critics offers a fascinating look at the 20 ads in the 20th century that have most shaped our buying decisions, our culture and global language. James Twitchell, preeminent scholar and author of the classic Adcult USA, deconstructs the ads that have most profoundly influenced our culture and marketplace, ads that have become signposts in our modern canon of consumerism. From Listerine's campaign of terror about halitosis to Nike's command to "Just Do It", he examines the geniuses behind the ads and how and why they have indelibly entered our popular lexicon.

Reviews

Succinct and informative, a ... deep look into a deceptively complex subject. Christopher Lehmann-Haupt, New York Times

Easily the Best Book on Advertising Philip Sawyer, director, Starch Advertising Research

Not a single page is without a cleverly turned sentence, thought-provoking remark, or outrageous conclusion. Wired

An immensely entertaining and seriously provocative piece of work . . . As wise as it is witty, this is a must for anybody really interested in brand marketingor hooked on nostalgia. Baltimore Sun

Twenty Ads That Shook the World is a triumph. . . . James Twitchell not only recognizes and appreciates the many ways that ads shape our culture, but he also writes about advertising in ways unmatched by any other author. Creativity magazine

This book is on fire with ideas. Far more than a history of great advertising, this invaluable and highly entertaining guide to the power of simple ideas is brimming with insights for anybody whos ever wanted to buy or sell something.Steve Hayden, president, Worldwide Brand Services, Ogilvy & Mather

A thoroughly enjoyable read that will have you humming more than a few jingles you thought youd forgotten." Entrepreneur

As eerily comforting as a family photo album. Esquire

This book is a treat. . . . Full of surprises and, as the only essential change in the advertising business through the years is the way one manipulates new technology, it is also a rich tapestry of stimulating thinking. Mary Wells Lawrence, founding partner, Wells, Rich, & Greene

Author Bio

James Twitchell is the author of Adcult USA: The Triumph of Advertising in American Culture and Carnival Culture: the Trashing of Taste in America.