scope of the book is impressive – he looks not just at the nature and development of whole fan cultures, but also focuses on the experience and identity of the individual fan. In addition, the book proposes a new perspective on fans and popular culture, arguing that the modern self is reflected and constituted through media consumption. In developing his account, Sandvoss draws on theoretical ideas in an original yet accessible way, and uses a wide range of examples, from Star Trek to Madonna to football, to illustrate his argument. This makes ‘Fans: the mirror of consumption’ an ideal text for upper-level undergraduate and postgraduate students studying fans, audiences and consumption in all areas of contemporary culture. It is the book’s original contribution, combined with its student-friendly approach, that will make ‘Fans: The Mirror of Consumption’ a ‘must read’ text for students and scholars alike.

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