Best Radio History & Criticism Books of 2025

Wilson Cook
Last Updated: May 11, 2023

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Radio history and criticism books are an essential resource for anyone interested in the evolution and impact of radio broadcasting. These books cover a wide range of topics, from the early days of radio to the present day, and provide insights into the cultural, social, and political forces that have shaped this medium. Some of the most popular titles include "The Golden Age of Radio," "Radio's America," and "The Radio Station: Broadcast, Satellite, and Internet." These books offer a deep dive into the history and development of radio, examining its impact on society and the ways in which it has shaped our culture. Whether you're a student of media studies or a casual listener, these books are sure to provide a fascinating look into the world of radio.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

#TOP 1
100 Uplifting Short Stories for Seniors: Funny and True Easy to Read Short Stories to Stimulate the Mind (Perfect Gift for Elderly Women and Men)
ftb score rating icon9.9
#TOP 2
The Best Strangers in the World: Stories from a Life Spent Listening
ftb score rating icon9.8
#TOP 3
1144 Random, Interesting & Fun Facts You Need To Know - The Knowledge Encyclopedia To Win Trivia (Amazing World Facts Book)
ftb score rating icon9.6

Top 10 Radio History & Criticism Books

100 Uplifting Short Stories for Seniors: Funny and True Easy to Read Short Stories to Stimulate the Mind (Perfect Gift for Elderly Women and Men)

Miller, Charlie
Nov 19, 2022
100 Uplifting Short Stories for Seniors: Funny and True Easy to Read Short Stories to Stimulate the Mind (Perfect Gift for Elderly Women and Men)
ftb score rating icon9.9
FTB Score

This book is a collection of 100 uplifting short stories in large print font size, written specifically to keep the reader's mind engaged and even crack up a laugh! The stories cover a variety of subjects like altruism, heroism, and justice in the world, making it the perfect gift for elderly women and men. The book's primary goal is to elevate the reader's mood and sense of well-being while also reducing their agitation. The stories are fun, informative, and heart-warming, making it an exceptional read for seniors. Overall, this book is an excellent choice for those looking for a light, entertaining read that stimulates the mind.

The Best Strangers in the World: Stories from a Life Spent Listening

Shapiro, Ari
Mar 21, 2023
The Best Strangers in the World: Stories from a Life Spent Listening
ftb score rating icon9.8
FTB Score

The Best Strangers in the World is a memoir-in-essays that takes readers around the globe to reveal the stories behind narratives that are sometimes heartwarming, sometimes heartbreaking, but always poignant. Ari Shapiro, the beloved host of NPR's All Things Considered, details his time traveling on Air Force One with President Obama, following the path of Syrian refugees fleeing war, and learning from those fighting for social justice both at home and abroad. This book is a testament to one journalist's passion for Considering All Things—and sharing what he finds with the rest of us. Overall, it is a witty, poignant, and insightful read that highlights the importance of listening and connecting with others.

1144 Random, Interesting & Fun Facts You Need To Know - The Knowledge Encyclopedia To Win Trivia (Amazing World Facts Book)

Matthews, Scott
Independently published
Apr 24, 2019
1144 Random, Interesting & Fun Facts You Need To Know - The Knowledge Encyclopedia To Win Trivia (Amazing World Facts Book)
ftb score rating icon9.6
FTB Score

This trivia book, titled "1144 Random, Interesting & Fun Facts You Need To Know," is a fascinating and informative read. With over a thousand facts on topics ranging from science to economics to space, readers will never be at a loss for conversation starters. The book is well-written and engaging, making it the perfect addition to any coffee table or bookshelf. The reviews speak for themselves, with many readers praising the book's interesting and unique content. Overall, this book is a must-have for anyone looking to expand their knowledge in a fun and entertaining way.

Live from the Underground: A History of College Radio

Jewell, Katherine Rye
Jan 9, 2024
Live from the Underground: A History of College Radio
ftb score rating icon9.5
FTB Score

Katherine Rye Jewell's "Live from the Underground: A History of College Radio" is the first comprehensive history of US college radio. Jewell uncovers the influence of these eclectic stations and their DJs on musical culture since the 1970s, revealing that their cultural power was owed to the politics of higher education as much as to upstart bohemian music scenes. The book delves into the battles to control college radio, which were an influential, if unexpected, front in the nation's culture wars. Jewell's book is a must-read for music fans and observers of the politics of culture.

Rush on the Radio: A Tribute from His Friend and Sidekick James Golden, Aka Bo Snerdley

Golden, James
Nov 23, 2021
Rush on the Radio: A Tribute from His Friend and Sidekick James Golden, Aka Bo Snerdley
ftb score rating icon9.3
FTB Score

James Golden, aka "Bo Snerdley," shares his experience as a call screener, producer, and friend of Rush Limbaugh in the book "Rush on the Radio: A Tribute from His Friend and Sidekick James Golden." The book takes readers on a journey through the highest-rated radio show in history that spanned 33 years and changed the American political conversation. Golden's stories reveal the growth of an audience into tens of millions of devoted listeners. He also highlights the importance of preserving Rush's legacy and the need for his stories now more than ever. Overall, "Rush on the Radio" is a must-read for any fan of the show or anyone interested in the influence of talk radio on American politics.

#TOP 6

Susan, Linda, Nina & Cokie: The Extraordinary Story of the Founding Mothers of NPR

Napoli, Lisa
Mar 8, 2022
Susan, Linda, Nina & Cokie: The Extraordinary Story of the Founding Mothers of NPR
ftb score rating icon9.2
FTB Score

"Susan, Linda, Nina & Cokie" by Lisa Napoli is a captivating group biography of four extraordinary women who blazed the trail for women in journalism. Cokie Roberts, Susan Stamberg, Linda Wertheimer, and Nina Totenberg fought against the male-dominated news industry to become icons. Napoli's extensive interviews and deep connections in news and public radio make this book a fascinating read, full of powerful moments and fascinating details about journalism history. Overall, "Susan, Linda, Nina & Cokie" is an inspiring book that offers a powerful lesson on what can happen when women carry as they climb.

#TOP 7

Ham Radio for Beginners: The Complete Newbie's Guide to Build & Operate Your Amateur Radio Station. Includes Preparation Material for the FCC Technician License Test

Duckstein, Richard
Independently published
Apr 2, 2023
Ham Radio for Beginners: The Complete Newbie's Guide to Build & Operate Your Amateur Radio Station. Includes Preparation Material for the FCC Technician License Test
ftb score rating icon9.1
FTB Score

Ham Radio for Beginners is an excellent guide for anyone interested in learning about ham radio. Written in simple language and easy-to-understand explanations, this book covers all the important concepts and terminology. It also includes preparation material for the FCC Technician License Test, making it a comprehensive resource. The book covers everything from setting up your own station to connecting with other ham radio operators and using your radio in case of an emergency. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in starting this fantastic journey into ham radio.

#TOP 8

Radio Replies: Three Volume Set

Rumble, Leslie
Carty, Charles M.
Carty, Charles M
TAN Books
Sep 1, 1979
Radio Replies: Three Volume Set
ftb score rating icon9.0
FTB Score

The "Radio Replies: Three Volume Set" is a comprehensive collection of 4,374 questions and answers on various aspects of the Catholic Faith. Written by Father Charles Mortimer Carty and Father Leslie Rumble, this book is a powerful refutation of Protestantism and is indexed for easy reference. The authors' clear, succinct, and uncompromising approach makes this book a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the Catholic Church. Published by T A N Books Publishers, this three-volume set is a valuable addition to any Christian apologetics collection.

#TOP 9

Chuck D Presents This Day in Rap and Hip-Hop History

D, Chuck
Fairey, Shepard
Black Dog & Leventhal
Oct 10, 2017
Chuck D Presents This Day in Rap and Hip-Hop History
ftb score rating icon9.0
FTB Score

A one-of-a kind survey of rap and hip hop history from 1973 to today by Chuck D, arguably the most influential rapper in the world.. In the more than 40 years since the days of DJ Kool Herc and "Rapper's Delight," hip hop and rap have become a billion-dollar worldwide phenomenon. Yet there is no definitive history of the genre-until now.. Based on Chuck's long-running show on Rapstation.com, this massive compendium details the most iconic moments and influential songs in the genre's recorded history, from Kurtis Blow's "Christmas Rappin'" to The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill to Kendrick Lamar's ground-breaking verse on "Control." Also included are key events in hip hop history, from Grandmaster Flash's first scratch through Tupac's holographic appearance at Coachella.. Throughout, Chuck offers his insider's perspective on the chart toppers and show stoppers as he lived it. Illustrating the pages are more than 100 portraits from the talented artists specializing in hip hop.

#TOP 10

The Man Born to Be King: Wade Annotated Edition

Sayers, Dorothy L.
Wehr, Kathryn
Jan 24, 2023
The Man Born to Be King: Wade Annotated Edition
ftb score rating icon8.8
FTB Score

The Man Born to Be King: Wade Annotated Edition is a critical and annotated edition of the radio dramas written by Dorothy L. Sayers, which were broadcasted by the BBC from December 1941 to October 1942. The plays presented twelve episodes in the life and ministry of Jesus, collectively affirming the kingship of Christ. Kathryn Wehr brings fresh insights to the plays, their background, and the ongoing significance of the life of Christ today. This new edition will allow a new generation of readers to enjoy these remarkable plays and learn a lot from the critical apparatus. The book is a must-read for scholars and general readers interested in radio history and criticism books.

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Editor's Notes

During our radio history & criticism book research, we found 1,000+ radio history & criticism book products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 5,860 customer reviews through our big data system to write the radio history & criticism books list. We found that most customers choose radio history & criticism books with an average price of $18.54.

Written by

Wilson Cook is a talented writer who has an MFA in creative writing from Williams College and has published more than 50 books acquired by hundreds of thousands of people from various countries by now. He is an inveterate reading lover as he has read a vast amount of books since childhood.