_I'm trying to leave a record of the technique, to create a blueprint for an ancient art._ _ Denny Martin FlinnSome theatergoers are mourning the death of Broadway's Golden Age _ a time when musical theatre reached its apex and creativity was infused into every time signature, witty remark, and kick-ball-change _ as the American musical strays from its original, standard book form. Denny Martin Flinn chose to do more than just mourn the loss; he hoped that by analyzing the book musicals of that era, he could offer today's generation at least a chance at recreating the unique artistic and theatrical aspects of the greatest American book musicals that reflected the ingenuity and genius of their time.By analyzing the scores, lyrics, librettos, and choregraphy of such innovative and revolutionary shows such asOklahoma!, On the Town, A Chorus Line, and Dreamgirls, as well as looking at which factors propelled certain shows to success (and which factors caused them to flop), The Great American Book Musicalprovides the current generation a thorough history and practical guide to the creation of Great American Book Musicals of their own.