Bindig insightfully shows how media conglomerates’ and advertisers’ concerted efforts to narrowly define demographics is primarily based on a recognition of the increase in both the American youth population’s spending power...coupled with their influence on household purchases.... Strongest of all, her exploration of how
Gossip Girldissolves the difference between the constructs of race and class...rightfully takes the show to task and seriously challenges the myth and legacy of the so-called ‘American Dream’.

Critical Studies in Television: The International Journal of Television Studies

Lori Bindig has written a book that elegantly and seamlessly demonstrates how media scholars can integrate a political economy approach with a cultural analysis of how texts both produce and reproduce hegemonic (and in some cases counter-hegemonic) ideologies of gender, race, and class. Gossip Girl: A Critical Understanding introduces students to a nuanced and sophisticated understanding of media theory while at the same time deftly applying key concepts to interrogate how the show was produced and consumed within a complex set of economic and cultural contexts.

Gail Dines, Wheelock College

Bindig’s analysis provides an engaging model of a critical cultural studies approach to a television series, ideal for classroom use. With detailed analysis of Gossip Girl’s six seasons, careful dissection of its place within the media industries, and thoughtful consideration of its fans’ investment in the show, Bindig delivers a thorough picture of the impact of this popular series.

Elana Levine, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

With a sophisticated theoretical view and sound methodological approach, this book has much to teach us about the power and influence of contemporary television. Comprehensive in its analysis of Gossip Girl, it is also a delightful read. These pages are full of insights that connect the program to everyday life, and help scholars and students alike understand that such an exceptional work of critical media studies can illuminate the world we live in.

Robin Andersen, Professor of Communication and Media Studies, Fordham University, New York City