Lewis Meyer, Tulsa’s own spunky book reviewer, shared his own unique reviews on KOTV-TV Channel 6 for more than 40 years on The Lewis Meyer Bookshelf and his frequent appearances on the Noon Edition of The News on 6. Lewis Meyer was an institution in Tulsa. His show has held the honor of being the longest running book show in America. A lawyer by profession, Mr. Meyer chose the world of books for his life’s work. He was a bookseller, author, lecturer, literacy advocate and reviewer.
Mr. Meyer graduated summa cum laude from Dartmouth and went on to get a law degree from Michigan. When he realized he hated practicing law, he turned his attentions to selling books. The Lewis Meyer Bookstore became a Mecca for book lovers all over the area. He was one of the official stores used to tally up the New York Times Bestseller list. One New York publishing representative stated that Lewis was legendary in Manhattan: not only was he revered for being one of the last of the great independent booksellers, but his own encouragement and support for young authors and his steady stream of autograph parties was far beyond any call of service.
Meyer’s enthusiasm was always contagious, “Books are vibrant, exciting things. I try to review them by mixing enlightenment with entertainment. I never review a book I don’t like.” The Lewis Meyer Bookshelf included lively features, seasonal suggestions, and interesting anecdotes. He would close each and every one of his shows on Channel 6 with the words, “The more books you read, the taller you grow.” Two generations in the four-state viewing area of Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas and Missouri grew taller thanks to Mr. Meyer’s infectious love of books and reading.
Two of his own books, Preposterous Papa and Off the Sauce are million-copy best sellers. His other titles include: Second Wife; The Customer is Always; Mostly Mama; Pooped!; and the Tipsy Witch and Other Fairy Tales. He appeared on many network shows, including The Tonight Show, and had his books featured on CBS’s This Morning. The Letterman people were forever trying to get Lewis to make the pilgrimage to New York to meet Dave.
Lewis is greatly missed by his wife, children, grandchildren, family, friends, customers and viewers.