Book one (of two, they are sold separately) looks at Lange's FSA photos as they were originally intended: to reveal, primarily through print media, the depth of the American Depression. The two books are different from the photographer's other photobooks because the author has researched the background to her photos, found the locations and what they reveal about thirties poverty.
This book has Lange's work in the agricultural areas of California, Oregon and Washington. As well as dozens of photos with extended captions there are mini essays explaining geographic and economic aspects of each location which had a bearing on the living conditions of the local population. There is also a chapter on the most famous FSA photo: Migrant mother. Here are the seven photos Lange took of the destitute mother and children in California during 1936.
These two books are part of a series that take fresh approach to the work of well known FSA photographers. The pictures (and words) create a fascinating visual history of the Depression years.
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