Retronaut: The Photographic Time Machine

Description

An emporium of retro treasure...from shocking sculptures of the 1700s, to Kodachrome snaps of 1950s Piccadilly Circus, to biblical scenes captured by Google Earth. Rather than nostalgia or folly, the aim is enlightenment, wonder and the pleasure of weirdness." --The Guardian Based on the widely popular blog that started as a side project in a basement, The Retronaut reveals strange yet enlightening photographs from the past that somehow seem to depict another version of now. Crocodiles taking children on walks, Queen Victoria caught smiling, and ponies at parking meters-this quirky page-turner enriched with author Chris Wild's unique wit and oddball knowledge is a must-have for collectors of the unusual. Wild, a former museum archivist, has revolutionized the way we think of dusty photos-turning them into a sensation that has taken the Internet by surprise. He has selected over 400 of the best photographs from the site's most visited eras and themes, mashing up Victoriana with vintage advertising from the '60s and '70s and amazing inventions like pants for cows. Page by page, this unconventional, thought-provoking photographic time machine will change what you think you know about history.

CHRIS WILD, a former museum curator is a blogger and creator of Retronaut, a 'time machine' that allows people to access millions of pieces of historical content including videos, pictures, music and text from public and private archives. It is a passport into history where people can pick their own entry point (be it people, places or objects) and take a fascinating, inter-connected journey back in time.

"With every page comes a surprise; this terrific collection never ceases to entertain." --Publishers Weekly, starred review "A way-back machine of great appeal to anyone who is interested in history, imagery, or art. In other words, just about everyone." --Library Journal "The legacy of Retronaut will be how it has educated through amazement--in a tasteful and entertaining manner." --San Francisco Book Review, 5/5 stars "In this remarkable assemblage of photos, artefacts and vintage advertisements, [Wild] takes us on a magical tour of the past." --Daily Mail "This is as cool a photography book as you're ever likely to come across." --Buffalo News "These photos of the past are strange, wonderful and weird." --The Fresno Bee "This book transcends time and there is something for everyone." --Mixed Media Reviews "Think of the book as a compilation of the most delightful and astonishing pictures from the massive photo album of our shared worldwide cultural heritage." --BookTrib.com