This “unauthorized but true” book chronicles Jack Webb’s development and refinement of his ideas in regard to what a police drama should be, whether as a radio series or as a television production. Offering readers a comprehensive look at the production of the show that defined a genre, this book also contains program guides for both the radio and television episodes of “Dragnet” as well as a collection of Joe Friday’s most well-known speeches from throughout the series. The appended “A “Dragnet” Guide to the Los Angeles Police Department” includes such information as the department’s unit numbering system, division identification and function, and a glossary of police terms. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the world of television program development and the changing face of the police drama.

Recommended. ( )

Jack Webb was more complex, complicated and conflicted than anyone would have ever thought. This book is a fairly decent and decently fair treatment of Webb life and motivations. ( )