Reader Views reviews Points North by Mikel Classen

Mikel B. Classen
Modern History Press (2019)
ISBN 9781615994908
Reviewed by Robert Leon Davis for Reader Views (04/2020)

Points North by MIkel B. Classen

Points North by MIkel B. Classen

Mikel B. Classen is an explorer and adventurist specializing in exploring many places in the United States, with a specialty of visiting locales in the Michigan Upper Peninsula area. He’s visited ghost towns, museums, various wilderness areas, and many other fascinating sites. In his book, “Points North: Discover Hidden Campgrounds, Natural Wonders, and Waterways of the Upper Peninsula,” he’s personally visited at least 40 locations which he shares with the readers. Color photos are included highlighting the areas and adding visual appeal.

Many locations are America’s hidden jewels and express various specific meaning due to their locations. Some reflect rich history, while others reflect the natural wonders of the Upper North Peninsula of Michigan. In addition, “Points North” explores various walking trails, waterways, and various parks. Trails that can actually be walked and waterways that one could actually paddle. Light houses, camping grounds, and old mining towns round out the many sites.

First of all, I had not realized the many number of hidden jewels and exotic places that Michigan had to offer, particularly the northern peninsula area. The author’s deep love and awe for this particular area radiates from each page! His use of the color photographs “brings the areas to life”. The forty places outlined are sequenced so that one could actually use the book as a guidebook if desired to see all the sites on a visit. This would especially be helpful to adventurist retirees!

Various obsolete mining towns and old, still existing light houses are beautifully surreal, like a throw back in time! “Points North” isn’t just a pictorial book; the author masterfully and elegantly explains the origins and meaning of every site. Great syntax and smooth wording highlights this book. Nothing is boring and in fact, the entire book was exciting until the very end. “Points North,” by Mikel B. Classen should definitely be in every gift shop, library, bookstore, and touring company. Once again the pictures, oh those pictures! 5 stars.

Shipwrecked and Rescued [PB]

SKU 978-1-61599-854-8
$22.95
1
Product Details
UPC: 978-1-61599-854-8
Brand: Modern History Press
Binding: Paperback
Edition: 1st
Author: Larry Jorgensen
Pages: 100
Publication Date: 10/01/2024

Winner of U.P. Notable Books Award (2022)

More than 6,000 shipwrecks have been recorded on the Great Lakes, but only one offers a true-life adventure like the 1926 rescue of the City of Bangor off the Keweenaw Peninsula in upper Michigan. A fierce November storm tossed the ship with a crew of 23 and 240 new Chrysler automobiles onto a Lake Superior reef. For the first time, Shipwrecked and Rescued tells the near-tragic story of lost and desperate shipmates floundering for two days in the deep snow and near-zero temperatures. Jorgensen's detailed research and collection of 100 rare historical photos chronicles what happened, introduces the key players, and finally reveals the fate of those collectors' prizes in the century since.

"Shipwrecked and Rescued is a thoroughly researched book about the most famous Keweenaw Peninsula shipwreck. The author clearly describes the timeline of incredible events, noting the vast number of people involved in successful rescue and salvage--a story that continues to this day through authentic artifacts, historic preservation, and family descendants of those who were there." -- Sean Ley, Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society

"This book is well-written and illustrated. It is almost beyond belief, but wonderful photos serve to corroborate the story." -- Robert Joynt, Classic Car Club of America

"Jorgensen provides a thorough look at a unique and fascinating Great Lakes shipwreck story." -- Eric Marsen, Curatorial Specialist, Michigan Maritime Museum

"It is refreshing that a non-native of the U.P. took such an intense interest in this wreck that he made the time to research his topic thoroughly, work with the Keweenaw County Historical Society, search out the background details and utilize a great number of photos so readers can see as well as read the story. All in all, it's a quick and informative read." -- Deborah K. Frontiera, U.P. Book Review

"If you like tales of courage and survival in the worst conditions that Lake Superior can dish out, you'll really enjoy Larry Jorgensen's Shipwrecked and Rescued: The City of Bangor. Be sure to pick up a copy from the many bookstores and gift shops on the Keweenaw Peninsula." -- Victor R. Volkman, Marquette Monthly

From Modern History Press

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