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The Alaska Almanac: Facts about Alaska 30th Anniversary Edition

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This is the 30th edition of the Alaska Almanac, a compendium of facts about the biggest state in the United States. Organized alphabetically, it covers everything from population to average temperatures to the number of fur-bearing animal species present in the state. Although not meant to serve as a tour guide to Alaska, it nicely complements the "The Milepost" as a source of information for folks with time to spend in exploring Alaska, or for new residents looking to understand how different Alaska is from the "lower 48." The text includes highlights on especially obscure facts and some interesting historical nuggets.

This book is highly recommended for the visitor to Alaska and the resident, both of whom will find fun facts to know and use.

As a long-term resident of the Last Frontier, I enjoy having the book handy somewhere between my computer, two Greenland Huskies, and the phone. The special 30th Anniversary edition continues a long tradition of concise information about our large and very diverse state.

Topics come in alphabetical order, for even quicker reference. So "Pioneers' Homes" comes just before "Pipeline," which is the mammoth Trans Alaska Oil Pipeline which runs over 800 miles from the Arctic Slope to the tankers at Valdez.

You can find out all about camping and hiking opportunities. When you get hungry,there is a recipe to rustle up a bunch of Sourdough Hotcakes (Serve quickly on hot plates, especially when it is 40 below zero.)

Each edition is spiced up with Alaskan humor from Mr. Whitekeys, a local commedian who could even make a Polar Bear laugh.Who else would report on a traditional Alaska duct tape sculpture contest? Entries included a duct tape bouquet of roses.

Enjoy this book if you are coming our way. Even if you never get here, it will make you feel like an Alaskan at heart!