This interesting volume on the history of the San Francisco Playland at the Beach amusement park showcases the sights, rides, and attractions of this ocean front recreation destination during the first half of the twentieth century. The work centers around a large collection of black and white photographs detailing the construction of the structures, citizens at play, and the behind the scenes work involved in running a major amusement center. Explanatory captions are included throughout and an introductory essay provides detailed historical context. Smith is a prominent San Francisco historian. Annotation 2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
