Action Park: Fast Times, Wild Rides, and the Untold Story of America's Most Dangerous Amusement Park - Book reviews of Action Park: Fast Times, Wild Rides, and the Untold Story of America's Most Dangerous Amusement Park

'Action Park: Fast Times, Wild Rides, and the Untold Story of America's Most Dangerous Amusement Park' book reviews

Review for'Action Park: Fast Times, Wild Rides, and the Untold Story of America's Most Dangerous Amusement Park'

"Action Park: Fast Times, Wild Rides, and the Untold Story of America's Most Dangerous Amusement Park" is a riveting and nostalgic chronicle penned by Andy Mulvihill and Jake Rossen. This book delves deep into the history of Action Park, a New Jersey amusement park notorious for its extreme attractions and lax safety measures, earning it the moniker "America's Most Dangerous Amusement Park."

From the outset, the book captures the reader's attention with an engaging narrative that combines personal anecdotes, historical context, and an exploration of the park's controversial legacy. Andy Mulvihill, the son of Action Park's founder Gene Mulvihill, provides a unique insider perspective that is both intimate and enlightening. His firsthand experiences lend authenticity to the tales of daring rides, reckless behavior, and the chaotic yet thrilling atmosphere that defined Action Park.

The book is structured in a way that seamlessly weaves together various elements of the park's story. It begins with the inception of Action Park in the late 1970s, tracing its evolution from a bold entrepreneurial venture to a cultural phenomenon. Gene Mulvihill's vision of creating an amusement park where guests could chart their own adventures, free from the constraints of stringent safety regulations, is portrayed with a mix of admiration and critical scrutiny.

One of the strengths of the book is its ability to balance humor with serious reflection. The anecdotes about the park's infamous attractions, such as the Cannonball Loop and the Alpine Slide, are both amusing and alarming. Readers will find themselves laughing at the sheer audacity of some rides while simultaneously cringing at the potential for injury. The authors do not shy away from addressing the darker aspects of Action Park's history, including the injuries and fatalities that occurred as a result of its daring ethos.

The book also delves into the cultural impact of Action Park, highlighting its role as a rite of passage for many New Jersey residents and its lasting imprint on those who visited. The park's legacy is examined not just through the lens of nostalgia but also through a critical analysis of the broader implications of its operational practices. The authors explore the regulatory and legal battles that ensued, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and controversies that surrounded Action Park.

Moreover, "Action Park" is rich in vivid descriptions and colorful characters. The employees, often teenagers themselves, are portrayed with a mix of fondness and exasperation. Their stories add depth to the narrative, illustrating the often-chaotic environment behind the scenes. The book captures the essence of a bygone era, evoking a sense of freedom and recklessness that is both exhilarating and unnerving.

In conclusion, "Action Park: Fast Times, Wild Rides, and the Untold Story of America's Most Dangerous Amusement Park" is a fascinating and well-crafted account that will appeal to anyone interested in unconventional histories, amusement parks, or 1980s Americana. Andy Mulvihill and Jake Rossen have succeeded in creating a compelling tribute to a place that was as infamous as it was beloved. The book is a testament to the allure of risk and adventure, offering a nostalgic yet critical look at a park that defied conventions and left an indelible mark on its visitors.

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