Spotlight on The Great American Retro Road Trip
This week on Roadside Reads and Reels we are spotlighting The Great American Retro Road Trip by Rolando Pujol. As someone who’s spent years documenting the fading glow of roadside Americana, I found this book to be more than just another photo collection. Instead, it feels like a love letter to neon signs, vintage diners, and the forgotten gems that still line our highways and small-town streets.
A Shared Appreciation for Roadside History
I’ve been following Rolando Pujol on Instagram for a while now, and over time we’ve even exchanged a few brief comments. His photography has always resonated with me, particularly because many of the places he’s captured are ones I’ve photographed myself. As a result, there’s a sense of kinship when flipping through the pages. His eye for detail and appreciation for history come through clearly, reminding readers why Americana continues to hold such fascination.
Moreover, the book doesn’t just recycle nostalgia. It highlights the artistry of roadside design while also drawing attention to how fragile these landmarks can be. Too often, we pass by faded neon or a shuttered café without realizing that these places are living history. Pujol gives them the dignity of recognition.
More Than Just a Photo Book
Interestingly, I only learned about Pujol’s long-term project on Substack, The Retrologist, after picking up this book and reading the author bio. It makes perfect sense. The same care and storytelling that fuel his social media presence are alive and well here.
What truly sets the book apart, however, is how informative it is. This isn’t just a visual journey. Instead, it’s a thoughtful, well-researched piece of work that adds depth to every stop along the way. For example, the captions and context allow readers not only to enjoy the images but also to understand the stories behind them.
Final Thoughts
It’s refreshing to see a recent, high-quality entry in this genre. Too many books about Americana lean solely on nostalgia, but The Great American Retro Road Trip offers substance as well as style. Consequently, it earns its spot on my shelf, and I’d argue it’s a must-have for anyone who shares a love of classic Americana.
Safe travels, RJ
You might also enjoy: Roadside America: The Automobile and the American Dream, by Lucinda Lewis. The American Drive-In, by Michael Karl Witzel. Car Hops and Curb Service: A History of American Drive-In Restaurants 1920–1960, by Jim Heimann. The Open Road: Photography and the American Road Trip – David Campany (Editor)
