Books

I’ve written several books, some audio, some local interest, and a new one in the works on regional theme parks. Brief descriptions are below, but go to RivershoreCreative.com for more details, read some articles on theme park design, and order everything (in multiple copies for your friends).

Imagineering an American Dreamscape: Genesis, evolution, and redemption of the regional theme park

Everybody knows pretty much everything about Disneyland—how it got started, how the Imagineers do their thing, and so on. But nobody ever talks about the parks that most of us across the country enjoy far more often. The regional theme parks, different from amusement parks, owe their existence to what Uncle Walt built in Anaheim. There were a few false starts, but in 1961 Angus Wynne opened Six Flags Over Texas, triggering a tidal wave of Disneyland-lites over the next twenty years.

This book tells the story of the regionals and the strong-willed individuals behind them—where they came from, how they got started, and how they’ve changed over the decades. Some of the stories you may have heard. Most you probably haven’t, and it’s a fascinating tale to tell. Along the way I’ve found some really interesting bits and pieces such as vintage ads, concept art, and so on that I’ll be posting on the park blog. Sign up at RivershoreCreative.com to get these goodies via email and read a free chapter. Let us know your thoughts and share your memories from your own home park.

 

Podcast Audio: Make Your Show Sound As Good As Your Content

Most podcasters are expert in lots of things other than audio. Creative warriors are on the front line churning out stories and other great content week after week, helping to build what’s become a serious industry.

But podcasts are about audio, after all, and not understanding the basics has its consequences. Too many shows are difficult to listen to and understand what’s going on. Others could use some polishing so they can hang with the big-time productions from NPR and the like. With just a little guidance and practice, one learn how to properly record with a mic, make it sound good, and produce a final show file that will help the show sound better and more professional.

 

Recording Audio: Engineering in the Studio

Whether you use the latest DAW software or an analog console, having a well-grounded knowledge of recording systems will help you become a more effective engineer. The basics never change—signal flow, mic technique, recording procedures, and good ears are crucial for getting great recordings. Recording Audiois designed to introduce new engineers to the recording process, providing plenty of hands-on suggestions and help along the way. Included are sections on podcasting and recording for music teachers, and there are a ton of audio examples so you can hear what the book is describing.

 

Mixing for God: A Volunteer’s Guide to Church Sound

If you run sound for your church, but don’t really know much about what you’re doing, you’re not alone. Most volunteers on church sound teams are experts in all kinds of things—except audio. Mixing for God is a book designed specifically for people in your situation to help you understand what’s going on.

You’ll start by analyzing what went wrong during a Sunday morning scenario, then we walk you through setting up for a service. Next comes fine-tuning your mic technique, using signal processing, and actually hearing whether the guitar is too loud (it always is!). Lots of problem solving and answers to your everyday questions will help you far more than definitions of technical stuff that you really don’t need to worry with. Lots of audio examples will help you hear what the book is talking about.

 

Elizabeth City: Rediscover Home

Most people never really see their hometown, being too absorbed in daily life. You take things for granted and completely miss the beautiful architecture, scenery, and history. This coffee table book presents a photographic journey into the rich heritage of Elizabeth City, North Carolina, a quiet, unassuming, thoroughly charming town on the Pasquotank River.