spike979's review against another edition
4.0
this was a fun book. I too enjoyed reading about kel's hometown! Definitely a fun page turner, also Sarah Vowell's humor is fantastic!
bookchew's review against another edition
4.0
Erudite and genuinely funny. A smart but breezy read even if this period in history isn't your typical area of interest.
bethgee's review against another edition
3.0
Clever premise but the execution isn't exactly perfect. Still would recommend for a read that is quick and off the beaten path. If you're not careful, you might even learn something.
marpesea's review against another edition
3.0
Learned some fascinating tidbits about American History and our assassinated presidents. I didn't anticipate that I'd discover a fondness for President Garfield, a bibliophile who advised college grads to guard their free time as it is precious.
It does feel a bit dated (written with George W Bush was president) and the author uses a slur twice early on in the book (the r word). The author reads her book and does a decent job of it. Other people read quotes from historical figures which was jarring at first, but I grew to enjoy it.
Recommended for fans of weird history and longer NPR pieces and radio shows (think This American Life).
It does feel a bit dated (written with George W Bush was president) and the author uses a slur twice early on in the book (the r word). The author reads her book and does a decent job of it. Other people read quotes from historical figures which was jarring at first, but I grew to enjoy it.
Recommended for fans of weird history and longer NPR pieces and radio shows (think This American Life).
earlyandalone's review against another edition
4.0
A little disjointed at times, but a fun read full of fun facts.
spinnerdriver's review against another edition
dark
funny
informative
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
4.25