Ceramics Books and Magazines

The book designer's work is exuberant and cheerful, much as is Fiestaware; however, the author's text is mean spirited. I don't think I've ever seen an odder combination. I hope for better things from the obviously knowledgeable author in the future.


Someone published this?   May 16, 2002
 26 out of 26 found this review helpful

The idea for a book dedicated to Post-1986 (P86) Fiestaware is a terrific idea and I was pleased to order it.

What a poor execution! Racheter's attempt is inconsistent, sophomoric and diseased with his unceasing attacks on Homer Laughlin China Company. (Who cares why he hates Homer Laughlin? Not me!)

The (little) new information and price guide for some P86 colors - the book's innovative features - are overshadowed by the pointless commentary.

Unfortunately the book isn't worth keeping for the pictures either... Don't buy this book!...


So Much Has Changed   October 19, 2001
 13 out of 15 found this review helpful

This book is a good start, but so much has changed in post 86 Fiesta... items, colors added and discontinued, prices. An update is desperately needed. Also a bit less "filler" as far as stories and dramatic exposition and more emphasis on actual introductions and discontinuations in the new line. Also, so many competing lines are similar... a back of the book section showing other contemporary dinnerware lines that currently compete with Fiesta.

My biggest suggestion would be a chapter showing comparison of old versus new items to show the evolution of design...1.e. the old casserole versus the new one, old cup next to new one. Many collectors of the new do not appreciate where the design evolved from

Also, the only decaled ware shown is...well.. the less said the better about what is shown... where are the artistic and popular patterns like Sunporch, Happy Pumpkin and Moon Over Miami?


The Post 86 Bible-Better than Collector's Encycl. of Fiesta   September 27, 2001
 13 out of 15 found this review helpful

This book is better than the Collector's Encyclopedia of Fiesta. So save yourself about $... and buy this book instead if you want informations on POST 86 Fiesta.
It is full of pictures and has easy to use information boxes with every mold/piece. You know what colors they came in, mold and item numbers and lots of detailed informations.
The downside to this book is that you only find one picture per item (mostly) limiting your view by only offering one angle.
The price list is extensive enough to not leave colors out.
I personally enjoy the authors style of writing thoroughly with his light humor. Mocking Martha Stewart a little, because he seems to think that she's a stuck up snob that only wants the Super Old stuff and abominates the new colors for the most part. He tells funny stories about TV and where he's seen fiesta. However, a little more history and facts would sometimes be nice. I assume, people buy this book for information not funny short stories.
I thoroughly enjoy that fact that he includes uses for some odd pieces. Looking at some candle holders they could be anything. He explains what the item was meant for and what else it is commonly used for.
LAst but not least... unfortunately it seems like this author was not given the same acces to limited pieces and photographs in is therefore lacking some details on limited ed. pieces.