For enthusiasts of history and the golden age of radio, a remarkable new title has arrived: Kristine Ohkubo’s From Girdle Maker to Water Commissioner – THE GREAT GILDERSLEEVE: The Pioneering Spin-off Program That Made Broadcast History! A finalist in the 19th Annual National Indie Excellence Awards, this book transports readers to the enchanting and hilarious world of Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, one of radio’s most beloved characters.

I had the privilege of being introduced to Gildersleeve’s eccentric stories by the author herself before the book’s publication, and I quickly became a devoted fan. Informative and engaging, the book traces the series’ evolution over the years. I particularly enjoyed delving into the actors’ detailed biographies and backstories.

You may know Ohkubo for her authoritative works on rakugo: Talking About Rakugo (Volumes 1 and 2) and Fallen Words. I can clearly see how her fascination with old-time radio drew her to the traditional Japanese art of rakugo. Both evoke a nostalgic world where family and traditional values take centre stage.

In the appendix, you’ll find complete episode logs—a treasure trove for fans, collectors, and researchers alike. These logs provide a roadmap back to the nostalgic world many of us long to revisit.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Thoroughly recommended for aficionados of old-time radio, comedy lovers, and rakugo enthusiasts alike!!!

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