Cultural Encyclopedia of LSD

In his introduction, Glausser (English, DePauw Univ.) states his hope that readers "will find this encyclopedia informative, engaging, and amusing," an outcome he ensures with a predominantly entertaining tone. Entries incorporate some coverage of the history of the development of this notorious hallucinogen but focus mainly on the drug's cultural impact during the late 1960s, including military uses of LSD and its effect on the politics, religion, and, particularly, art of the era. The chemistry and, for the most part, medical aspects of LSD, however, are not covered. Entries run from one paragraph to two pages in length and include cross-references, as well as occasional external citations. The work includes an extensive bibliography and an index (though not yet completed at the time of review). While not an overly scholarly work, it is an engaging look at the psychedelic culture of the United States and United Kingdom. It is also valuable as one of relatively few publications of its kind, particularly among works attempting to provide unbiased coverage. BOTTOM LINE This book will appeal to individuals with an interest (perhaps nostalgic) in the psychedelic era and is reasonably priced for this market. It will also make an excellent addition to school and public libraries.—Sarah W. Sutton, Texas A&M Univ. Lib., Corpus Christi