Looking for group to read with ~ Playing Fans: Negotiating Fandom and Media in the Digital Age

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This book looks highly relevant to many discussions on “What is the OSR?” “What is state of the OSR?” and arguably, “What is the future of the OSR?” (Seems like this trifecta needs a name.)

From the description on the website:

For years the media industries ignored fans and fan activities, but now they’re paying attention and a lot of money to develop a whole new wave of products intended to harness the power of fandom. What impact do such corporate media efforts have on fan practice and fan identities? And are the media industries actually responding to fans as fans want them to? In Playing Fans, Paul Booth argues that the more attention entertainment businesses pay to fans, the more mainstream fans have become popularized.

Unfortunately, the book is ridiculously expensive ($45‼️). If I buy it I want to make sure I read it, and what better way than to read it with others? I think it’d be a fantastic conversation to have on the forum.

Any takers?

Here’s a link at the WorldCat catalogue to find it at a nearby library.

Here’s the link to the University of Iowa store:

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I’m interested. If the local library doesn’t have it, I’ll probably order a copy next weekend.

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Awesome! I’ll do likewise.

I’m really curious about it. I’m hoping it offers a framework I can use to connect the little tidbits of OSR history that have crossed my path. But more generally, I like the idea of understanding yet another mechanic used by media to sell their wares.