Fireworks : [a history and celebration]

Fireworks mean celebration in any language. They herald coronations, inaugurations, jubiliees, and glorious beginnings. Be they cherry bombs, skyrockets, girandoles, Roman candles, maroons, or sparklers, fireworks have long transfixed Americans with their explosions of color and sound against a night sky. Rarely, however, are enthusiasts granted a glimpse behind the extravaganza. With an eloquence and urbane wit surpassed only by his enthusiasm, author George Plimpton gives a lively account of pyrotechnic display, its legendary enthusiasts, and the people and families who domniate the field today. –From cover.