The Regulators, King (1996)

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Among other things, this novel is a biting critique of broadcast television, particularly the programming directed at American children—cinematic SpaghettiOs—both as it existed at the time of publication and as it had existed during the author’s childhood.

As cultural commentary, it was well directed and the author hit his mark.

Thirty-five years prior to this novel’s publication, FCC Chairman Newton Minow had described television programming as a vast wasteland and the theme and image of wasteland are prominent in this story. In 1969 Senate testimony, Fred Rogers spoke powerfully about the impact of television programming on the development of children. In this novel, the author engages in dialogue with Minow and Rogers. He extends and complements their arguments, while bringing those arguments up to date.

Three decades have passed since this novel was published, situating it midway between the policy discussions of the 1960s and the popular culture of today. Much has changed in the intervening years. But the author’s critique holds up.