2 comments about Only in Minnesota.

1. i found this book to be a wonderful guide to the newly transplanted and for folks like me, who have lived here all my life. i had no idea there is so much beauty & long lived traditions. i mostly spend my time going to the ne corner of the state-lake superior but now i have had a glimpse of what other fabulous places are here in minnesota and will begin to explore what is 'only in minnesota'. thank you for creating this book!



2. I love this book, I recently moved out of Minnesota and miss it dearly. This book is a beautiful tribute to the scenic views, great places to visit and the charismatic people who live there.

1 comments about Barns: Styles & Structures.

1. I was really looking for a book that can give you ideas of how to remodel your barn in different climates. We recently purchased a new home in Oregon and put all of our machinery in the pole barn. Well, the machinery is starting to rust. So I bought a bunch of these "Barn" books thinking that I could find some ideas of how to insulate our barn. No such luck. However, this book is pretty nice.

5 comments about Route 66 Remembered (Motorbooks Classic).

1. This is a great book, and not just a rehash of other Route 66 material that's already out there.



2. This is a book about a road -- but there's no roadmap! The author chose to structure the book's five chapters around such things as tourist traps, filling stations, places to eat, motor hotels, and "memories". While, of course, these are interesting things along a road, the salient characteristic of a road is that it goes from one place to another. What are those places? What sequence of states/towns/views do you encounter as you travel this road? This book provides no geographical context for its pictures and disjointed text about the Mother Road.
   
   A road also has a temporal dimension. This book fails to provide a sense of how this great road has changed over time. Although there are pictures from various dates, there is no organization, and old photos are indiscriminantly intermixed with new ones.
   
   It is interesting to thumb through the book, but the Route 66 Remembered is only a random collection of scenes with no direction.



3. I got this book before going on a trip down 66, along with a few others. I loved it. I had a lot of the people I met along the way sign the book and once in a while, got some of the owners of restaurants, gas stations, roadside attractions, and diners featured in the book to sign it. What a wonderful scrapbook to have of one of the last great American road trips!



4. This book isn't a travel guide or a map-style publication, but a really cool scrapbook of the Mother Road. Witzel's sidebars on interesting segments of road culture are fascinating. The photography is great, too. Unlike a lot of the other 66 books, this one is divided up into chapters on gas stations, motels, restaurants, and other roadside attractions. The final chapter, "Mother Road Memories," recounts the true tales of people who actually took the trip down 66 and really takes you back to the way it used to be when traveling across country. Of all the roadside books I have in my library, I would highly recommend this treasure. It's one of Witzel's best ......



5. When I bought this book I was looking for help planning a Route 66 trip. While it hasn't really served that purpose, it has provided pages of nice pictures and some degree of inspiration to get on the road. Maybe I'll like the book even more once I've completed the trip and want to take an occassional look back.

5 comments about Mickey Mouse History and Other Essays on American Memory.

1. Is this guy for or against preservation? It's hard to tell sometimes. Gives another, if not confusing, viewpoint of the preservation movement.



2. Aside from a proverbial axe that Mr. Wallace is grinding (especially in the Reagan essay), the text employs a down-to-earth approach, avoiding the typical multi-syllabic lingo that is usually associated with academia. In addition, the broad purpose of his text is applaudable: the deconstruction of the myths and ideologies of history and the return to historical research and study.

   However, I can say that while I agree with most of Mr. Wallace's viewpoints, I should also note that he has many fallacies in his case studies, particularly those with Disney. As a former Disney employee, I have to wonder how much time he truly spent researching the inner cogs of the "Mouse Machine," and who he spent time interviewing.

   As a volunteer museum curator/collections manager, I must agree with other reviewers about Mr. Wallace's critical analysis of museums. "Could," "should," and "would" are great words when theorizing and idealizing about the historical preservation process, but until one actually experiences the real-world struggles of museum revitalization and artifact preservation, I tend not to pay any heed to the noisy cymbals of criticism.

   Finally, as a graduate student of Popular Culture, and from an academic viewpoint, the lack of detailed citations and direct references in this book raises my concern about the integrity of the research that was done. The bibliography, while impressive in its depth, is not annotated enough to make up for the missing footnotes of works cited.




3. for someone interested in museum, spaces of exhibition and the like you will find section one and two of this book quite interesting. the first deals with different sorts of museums placing a critical point of view from communitary museums to opend air museums, to technology museums. the second part is great dealing with the forms of exhibition at disney. dystory, that special kind of reality that it is at once purified and sanitized and tha is quite part of the essence of thematized environments. parts three and four deal, respectively, with the restoraton movement in america and the politics of culture during regan's era, specially with the enola gay case.



4. Mike Wallace uses the kind of academic writing that all scholars should aspire to achieve--lively, free of jargon, and entertaining. His subject, as suggested by the book's title, is history and the debates that surround different depictions of history. Wallace observes, astutely, that the struggles over how to portray history reveals much about ourselves, our beliefs, and our agendas. Wallace points out that history is never neutral, a point that is well worth reinforcing.

   My particular interest is Disney Studies, and Wallace has a section (actually two essays) devoted to Disney and it use of history. The first essay concentrates on Disney's use of history in its theme parks, particularly in places such as the Hall of Presidents and EPCOT. While Wallace does not shy from criticizing Disney's portrayal of history (in fact, one of Wallace's strengths is he does not shy from representing his own viewpoint clearly), he also does not simply dismiss the potential in integrating history, entertainment, and the kind of technological wizardy that Disney is known for. He makes a serious case for a reconsideration of Disney and its techniques, all without constantly hitting his reader over the head with things. In his second essay, Wallace concentrates on the failed Disney's America project, providing background information and a critique of Disney with a call to re-examine Disney's use of history as emblematic of other movements and struggles over American history. He also makes it clear that he believes simply dismissing Disney is not an effective strategy for considering how portrayals of history could engage the public. The strength here is that Wallace is not afraid to criticize both Disney and kneejerk criticisms of Disney, or to envision the melding of history and entertainment. Nor does he abandon the quest for critical presentations of history that open history to even further investigation. While this is no easy task, Wallace does succeed.

   If there is one thing I would suggest, perhaps the element I feel is missing, is a better development of these strategies for the presentation of history that Wallace supports. Although that could indeed be a book in itself, it would have been nice to see more of Wallace dwell more on his own engagement with, even answers to, the questions he has raised in this book.




5. This is a very easy-to-read, jargon-free book about various ways in which the American past has been marketed to the American public. Wallace makes clear that the past should not be sanitized or exaggerated for any purpose, no matter how noble. And he makes clear how dangerous distortions of the past can be, particularly in chapters that discuss Ronald Reagan's or Newt Gingrich's . . . shall we say, passing acquaintance with history as it happened, as opposed to how they wish it had happened.

   That last sentence makes pretty clear that Wallace has an ideology of his own. He interprets much of American history in terms of the conflict between classes. He does not insist that his interpretation is the only valid interpretation, but the force with which he makes some of his ideological points keeps me from giving this a five star review. That said -- everyone should read this book. It pokes away at some of the myths that keep us from doing what we can to make American society even better. Mickey Mouse History might make you uncomfortable -- but it's a discomfort that has plenty of rewards in understanding.

5 comments about The Great Pacific War: A History of the American-Japanese Campaign of 1931-1933.

1. Who will forget Roosevelt's speech condemning the Japanes for their surprise attack on Pearl Harbor? But was it a day of infamy or a very predictable event that US intelligence failed to get right? After all In his book the naval authority Hector Bywater outlined in novel format a scenario for a Pacific war between Japan and the US in 1931. Japan made a surprise attack on the US Pacific Fleet based in the Philippines ( Pearl was not then the naval base). After initial setbacks the US employed a strategy of island hopping to cut back the Japanese. Finally they made a move on the Japanese so provocative that the Japanese fleet had no option but to come out and fight to save their honor. They were annihilated.
   He was called a war mongerer. Roosevelt attacked him and disagreed that such a war would happen. Meanwhile a fellow called Yamamoto bought and read the novel as did most of the Japanese naval academy.
   December 7th 1941 Hector Bywater's novel became reality.
   Whilst the novel is old worldly quaint and focuses on pure ship power (aircraft at the time did not have the capability to inflict any significant damage) it is prophetic if only Roosevelt had listened.
   A must read for all those interested in naval power and the war in the Pacific.



2. A well written, quickly moving narative with main chapter subjects at beginning of each chapter. This author is a terrific news man and a far cry from the self-serving propagandist we have to day.



3. Obviously written before the author (and his training) really understood the signifigance aircraft carriers would have in the war between these two countries (1941 -1945), so a lot of his suppositions are not born out by fact.
   
   However, the three biggest objections I had to the volume was 1) the fact of his use of very very long paragraphs to get his point across (some paragraphs would go for two or three PAGES at a minimum); 2) the fact that the volume was/is touted as having predicted the attack on Pearl Harbor (at least a decade before it actually happened) but does not mention an attack there at all in the narrative, and 3) how Japan is protrayed as treating prisoners of war in the novel versus how they actuslly treated them in fact.
   
   Is it worth reading- - - yes. Just don't do it to see how history was revealed, but only as it might have been.



4. Bywater explains the "inevitable" war in the Pacific between the United States and Japan if the Naval Treaty between the US, UK, and Japan hadn't been signed in the 1920's. What is interesting is the amount of detail that Bywater brings to the "war that never happened" and forecasts some of the steps that the US would enventually take in WW2. It's not for everyone but if you like the "What-If" genre of history you'll find it quite enjoyable. This book was out of print for years so if you want to read it buy the reprint now! I tried to find it for years from specialty shops and could never find it.



5. A surprise attack on a US installation in the Pacific by the Japanese? The US conducting a campaign of "island-hopping" to fight the enemy? The Japanese using suicide aircraft to defend themselves? This sounds like a history of WWII but it isn't from WWII but rather a novel written years before. What the author has done is basically use military logic to write a book that details a clash between the US and Japan. Some parts of the book are right on the mark with what would later happen for real in World War II. However, other parts miss wide such as the author having the US use gas as a weapon.

   As novels go, this book really isn't that exciting. It's main interest is to the historian, both professional and amateur, who is interested in what was foreseen by some people in the 1920's.

4 comments about The American Diner (Motorbooks Classic).

1. This is a wonderful book for we nostalgia nuts! The many photographs and descriptions of pre-fast food America will remind you of simpler times, or make you sad that you missed them.



2. Thanks Mike. I new B 4 hand that the book would B great. I no your work. 2 of the diner pictures R in my home town. In Middletown Connecticut. USA. The color in the book is so nice. By. Marty.



3. "The American Diner" is a delightful book that maintains the high standards Michael Witzel has always set for himself. Very beautiful, informative and entertaining. Chock-full of outstanding images from photographers like Pedar Ness, Ronald Saari and Howard Ande.

   There are many excellent sidebar stories, including one on Jerry Berta's DINERLAND in Rockford, Michigan. This man saved Rosie's Diner, built a miniature golf course and restored another 1947 diner into an art gallery. (I've gotta meet this guy.)

   Another delightful effort from Michael Karl Witzel. "The American Diner" entices me to Hit The Road and experience these wonderful greasy-spoons firsthand, especially those original East Coast joints!




4. Witzel has done it again! The diner images in this book are fantastic, both the vintage and current shots. Many are full page size and more, giving the reader a closeup look at some of America's greatest diners. Along with really informative historical text, each chapter contains a sidebar that highlights a particularly cool diner. It was fun to learn the history of and to see some of the greats like Pal's, Rosies, The Riverhead Grill, the Cutchogue, and Mel's "Googies" Diner in action.

5 comments about A Maryland Sampling: Girlhood Embroidery, 1738-1860.

1. A former curator and then director of the Daughters of the American Revolution Museum in Washington, D.C., Gloria Seaman Allen brings to bear her considerable years of experience and expertise in "A Maryland Sampling: Girlhood Embroidery 1738-1860". A beautifully illustrated history of Maryland samplers and pictorial embroideries that were the instructed obligation of young girls who were thereby able to showcase their needlecraft skills and abilities. Now these samplers are highly prized among collectors and antiques dealers. Allen focuses specifically on Maryland and how needlework traditions from its 18th and early 19th century English, German, and French settlers were carried on down through the end of the American Civil War. A truly seminal work of painstaking scholarship, "A Maryland Sampling" is especially recommended as an addition to academic library American Cultural History reference collections, and to the attention of needlecrafters, as well as Americana collectors and dealer.



2. A fabulous book, with so much to read and see, and LEARN! Gloria Allen is always thorough in her research. Wonderful!



3. Gloria Allen's "A Maryland Sampling" is much more than a book about needlework or samplers. In truth, it weaves multiple histories of young girls, the early days of female education in Maryland, families and tradition to create a fascinating picture that deserves to be told. Equally important, "A Maryland Sampling" details, to a greater extent than ever before, the embroidery work of young African-American girls in Baltimore and the teachers and schools that sought to give young girls of color an education equal to that of while children. Even if you're not a needleworker or sampler collector - and I am neither - "A Maryland Sampling" is a beautiful book with a beautiful story.



4. Dr. Allen is an excellent historian and this beautiful, informative book gives evidence to it. For anyone interested in the historical aspects of needlework of the Baltimore area, this is a must see and read book. The pictures are sharp and clear and the history of the girlhood embroideries is right on track.



5. THIS IS A WONDERFUL BOOK OF 384 PAGES, WITH MANY BEAUTIFUL PICTURES. IT DOCUMENTS MARYLAND SAMPLERS AND EMBROIDERIES. THE BOOK GOES IN DEPTH TELLING ABOUT THE SCHOOLS, TEACHERS AND THE PUPILS, INCLUDING THE AFRICAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY WHO CREATED THESE BEAUTIFUL WORKS OF ART.
   
   VERY INTERESTING TO READ, AND A VALUABLE BOOK TO HAVE, FOR ANYONE INTERESTED IN SAMPLERS AND THEIR HISTORIES.

2 comments about Strength to Your Sword Arm: Selected Writings.

1. A woman who lived with passion, spunk, and humor, Brenda Ueland is an inspiration to women writers, and especially to writers of memoir. Her style is unbridled and totally original; her voice bounces off the page and engages the reader. Her book of advice on writing, IF YOU WANT TO WRITE, is a classic, and I recommend it (at the top of my list) to all students in my writing workshops. STRENTH TO YOUR SWORD ARM is a fine collection of articles, essays, and newspapers columns written by Ueland. An added bonus in this book is the delightful foreward written by memoirist Susan Allen Toth. Overall, this book is a wonderful way to learn more about Brenda Ueland. Clearly, there is no one else like her. -- Cindy La Ferle, columnist and author of Writing Home. www.laferle.com



2. Reading Brenda Ueland's essays are like chatting with an old friend. Her description, enthusiasm, and sheer enjoyment of writing permeate every page of this charming book. Each essay is short--between 2 and 4 pages--and deals with a single topic, making it possible to skip between topics rather than read from page one. Her characters are colorful and wonderfully drawn--you will feel as if you were sitting in the park with her, listening to this marvelous woman telling tales of her amazing life!

5 comments about The History of Beads: From 30,000 B.C. to the Present.

1. Highly detailed, technical and descriptive ... outstanding for the "advanced", but over-whelming and a bit complex for the novice (as I am).
   
   Overall, a book that one can acclimate to and find valuable and well worth the investment in time and practical use.



2. This book was fine if you wanted information regarding beads up until the 1940's, but the information on beads after that period is very very slim. The words "to the present" is very misleading.



3. This book covered all about beads. I bought it for a presentation my daughter was doing for her 6th grade class. It was very helpful.



4. I was expecting a huge book full of pictures and information, and while there are pictures and good information, it's rather sparse. I'm surprised at how few books are available on the subject of jewelry in history, considering it's nearly the only thing we have left of many cultures. If you are desperate for any information on beads in history, this is a good starting place, but I was left wanting more.



5. The best tool for bead lovers and craftsmen, I am very happy with it and the price is very good for the quality. The bead table with reference to the timing is something special.

4 comments about Collectors Encyclopedia of Russel Wright: Identification & Values (Collectors Encyclopedia of Russel Wright).

1. We've been collecting RW since 1998, and have hundreds of hard to find and many one of a kind pieces.
   
   Pros:
   -Some new photos.
   -The most comprehensive author of Russel Wright, covering all designs from all eras, including furniture and plastic
   -Detailed price guides
   -History and chronology of lines based on extensive research
   
   Cons:
   -Due to wide scope of the book, it is fairly easy to find incorrect information on pieces, prices, and other data.
   -Truncated some interesting information from 2nd edition, including photos of very rare items that we collect
   
   Neutral:
   -Moved prices to back (for easier reference?).
   
   Bottom line: 2 stars for accuracy, 4 stars for breadth, 3 stars for depth. Thus the average rating. If you seriously collect RW and do not have either the 2nd or 3rd edition of this book, you should buy this as without doubt this is certainly better than other RW books (and we have several others), but again not necessarily a must have for those with the 2nd edition.



2. I just started collecting Russel Wright dishes, and was looking for a definitive reference guide to help key out the pieces I had. I thought this book had a lot of helpful information about determining pattern and manfacturing locations, but I was a bit disappointed overall. Though the cover of the book features only pottery, the book itself has examples of all that Russel Wright created in his long, prolific career-- all the way down to the radios and lamps. It would be great for the diehard RW fan, but I wished it just focussed on the pottery.



3. I am so happy to have gotten this book. I knew little-to-nothing about Wright,and Ann Kerr's book lays out all kinds of information about the man, the artist, and his art. I haven't had much of a problem without an index, as she has all the information chaptered out, and it is all easy to access. The accompanying photos are excellent and there are many. She also explains any areas which may be ambiguous, such as color, size and shape anomalies. Due to getting this book, I often know more about the pieces I find than the dealers do, as she tries to fit in every piece of information that she has, on every aspect of the collectible items. I love this book!



4. Packed with information, this book is cumbersome to use since it doesn't have an index.