Review
Let me state right off, this is the most informative, interesting book I have read so far this year, and I mean that. In this wonderful read we are given trivia and history that is not usually known by many and covering all 50 states. I was totally amazed at what I read and began to share it with everyone in my household. Of course then I had to battle to get the book back to continue my read. Go figure! Since I live in the state of Florida I wanted to read what was written about my state first. I never knew that several hours away from me there was found an entire civilization buried, one dating to over 7,000 years ago. This story was amazing, one I can't wait to share with other Floridians, whom I am sure do not know this fact either. Besides finding out fun facts about each of our states, and people relating to the states, the author has dedicated an entire section to what he calls, "Thumbing Through America's Weird Past." Here you will find interesting facts such as: Why JFK should not have received a Pulitzer Prize for his book, Profiles in Courage. Why Florida really should be called "The Partly Cloudy State," and which states truly have earned the title of , "The Sunshine State." And how about finding out how many times Doomsday almost hit America, and the where and how's of how it almost happened and what stopped it. Exceptional! I'm telling you, young and old will be absolutely absorbed in this book. Besides all the information, we have top-notch illustrations that definitely help you to envision what you are reading. Here is a book that will hold your interest from beginning to end and will give you hours of fun, useful information that everyone is sure to find astounding. You will say over and over again: I never knew that. Why, that's amazing! Who would have ever known! Truly It is a book like none other, written in a lighthearted interesting way. It is a true treasure of a read, and well worth your consideration. I give it my highest recommendation. Well done! --Shirley Johnson Midwest Book Review
This book is certainly one of the most unique books I've read recently with its freaky facts from all 50 states. If you're looking for an evening of fun reading, you will find it here. It's also one that you can put down and pick up again as time allows. Do you want a few little tidbits to share with friends and family this is just the book to read. Each chapter is short, but full of punch! It would also make the perfect gift for a history enthusiast. A very interesting read. --Barbara Davis, Great Reads & Page Turners
Strange but True, America takes us on a very unique and interesting journey through history. For each of the fifty states, there is a strange, but true, tale. Of course being from Indiana, I immediately flipped straight to my home state with my curiosity peaked. It tells of a Grand Dragon's fall and how that was the beginning of the end for the KKK and their political force. Another interesting, yet ironic, story is from the state of New Hampshire. There license plate slogan is "Live Free or Die". They are manufactured by prisoners at the state prison in Concord. And who can forget the strange circumstances surrounding the death of President Washington. Virginia is depicted with the strange, but true story about how the doctor's "fashionable bloodletting" killed one of our founding fathers. STRANGE BUT TRUE, AMERICA is a wonderful coffee table book or to share with your friends for a lively discussion. The illustrations are whimsically drawn and lend a certain charm to the book. Hafnor has definitely done his homework; not surprising considering he is a history teacher. If you are looking for strange and unique bits of history or simply want to be entertained, Strange but True, America is a must have! --Wendy Hines, reviewing for Minding Spot
About the Author
John Hafnor launched the strange history book phenomenon in 1982 with Black Hills Belivables. He taught history at National College, and hit the lecture circuit with his humorous "Hidden Histories." Hafnor has authored best-selling books for Colorado and South Dakota and the German-language Wahres aus dem Wilden Westen. He resides in the foothills of the Colorado Rockies.
