Kentucky Books

Crowgey has delivered a thoroughly delightful in-depth and detailed academic-level history of the origins of America's Native Spirit, Bourbon.

If you're looking for mixed drink recipes or techniques on how to make the latest shooter, you're in the wrong place. If you're truly interested in the wheres and whys of the origin of Bourbon, you'll be in heaven.

Crowgey's writing style can get a bit pedestrian at times but the facts and details here come through loud and clear. He debunks some of the myths, he lays out the facts as they were, and we're better Bourbon connoisseurs for having read him.

You can enjoy Bourbon without reading this book, but you'll understand Bourbon better if you do.

In tracing the history of distilling in Kentucky up to the eve of the Civil War, Crowgey dispels many of the myths and "pleasant legends" that have grown up around this native spirit.

There is, of course, much here for those interested in Kentucky history and the history of distilling. However, through his study of early bourbon making, Crowgey also tells us a great deal about early American agricultural history and the settlement and development of the frontier. Originally published in 1971, this is a wonderful little book that deserved to be reprinted.

I recently finished reading this book and found it to be one of the most interesting unit histories that I have ever read. This book is a history of the 4th Kentucky Cavalry (CSA) and is written by one of its members, George Dallas Mosgrove. It recounts the service of this unit in Eastern Kentucky and Southwest Virginia and under the command of Generals Humphrey Marshall, John Hunt Morgan, "Grumble" Jones, and others. It also provides a roster of members of the 4th and biographies of the Captains. The "classical" writing style of the author is evident throughout the book, yet it always keeps your attention and is easy to read. For those who have an interest in Kentucky units or the war in Southwest Virginia, this book is for you.

This work is more of spin off work from the Diary of Edward O. Guerrant who served with this book's author during the Civil War. Musgrove supplements Guerrant's Diary which has been recently publlshed under the title "Bluegrass Confederate" Edited by William C. Davis. Both works fill in the gaps about the actions that were fought in Southwest Virginia and East Tennessee where the Official Records are silent. Aside from a few local histories this book is one of the few that has such information. Highly recommended for students of this area of the conflict.

This cookbook is my cooking bible. Every recipe is full proof. I understand the Louisville writers of this book tested every recipe a minimum of 8 times to guarantee they would work every time. Try the Mighty Mustard, Henry Bain Sauce and the Derby Pie. You will make them over and over again. And the pictures give you a true idea of what Derby in Louisville is like from a local perspective!

Probably the best of all combination books that give the flavor and taste of what the Derby is all about. The photography is superb, the recipe' selections the best of Kentucky and the book itself a center piece for any coffee table

Kentucky Dreamin' had me fired up from page 1. Ron Stauffer does an excellent job of weaving suspenseful fiction with many historical quotes that ought to open a lot of minds. Those who are religious would gain some very good insight into their own philosophies from reading this book, and anyone who likes suspense will find it entertaining. Kentucky Dreamin' combines murder, romance and philosophy intelligently and entertainingly, while throwing in an extra bonus - the text of James Madison's short, succinct masterpiece, "A Memorial and Remonstrance."

Three cheers for Kentucky Dreamin' - a novel of mystery and romance that actually shows ATHEISTS for the good people I know them to be. Erin is a strong female lead; Paul is the kind of guy most atheist or agnostic gals seek. The suspense builds as terrorists strike and promise more savagery. The interwoven philosophizing of great voices of the past is a welcome break up of the action.

If you buy only one book about Kentucky, this is the book to buy. Every aspect of Kentucky history is covered in detail. This is a compilation of articles submitted by over 500 people on various topics ranging from prehistoric Kentucky to modern times. Each one is a facinating description of Kentucky history that reads like a short story. I never tire of reading this book! Is is a must read for anyone who has ever been to or lived in Kentucky.

Very informative book. Well organized.

I liked the book, "Kentucky Keepers." The stories were so good that I read it in a week- not bad for a 12-year-old( I am an honor student, though.) I really enjoyed the character's adventures in love. I live in Kentucky and like to read books from our local authors. My all-time favourite authors are Teresa Phillips, Bobbie Ann Mason, and, now, Jennifer Johnson!!!

Also recommend, "Leaving Lancaster County", by Teresa Phillips, "Amish Cooking with Sicily Yoder, ", and "In Country", by Bobbie Ann Mason

The book Kentucky Keepers is definitely a keeper--even for someone like me who doesn't fish! I laughed and cried along with the four heroines who each make the catch of their lives in finding the mate God has for them in the area surrounding the fictional Canyon Lake. Each story centers around an annual fishing tournament. Besides catching fish, souls are won to the Lord and lives are changed forever. If you like happy ending, you'll love Kentucky Keepers and each of the four novellas by Lynn Colemen, Jennifer Johnson, Gail Sattler, and Kathleen Y'Barbo.

I admit I'm not a fan of country western type stories or country music even though I'm a native Texan. Not all of us folks wear cowboy boots and ten gallon hats. I've read NASHVILLE GOLD and was excited to get KENTUCKY ROSES. It took no time to read both because they were a pleasure and quick reading. I really came to care about the characters without realizing it was Malone's talented writing that did it. Think you're good at predicting endings? Try this one on for size... it's tough to accurately predict it. I didn't get it right and loved that.

I read and loved Dekker's first novel, Nashville Gold, but I must say, Mr. Malone really outdid himself with the sequel, Kentucky Roses! I could not put this book down, I read it cover to cover in a day, I tried to put it down, but kept "just one more chapter"-ing myself until the book was over. Then a few days later I read it again! The characters are so real, the author has such a gift and talent for developing his characters and getting you attached to these people, worrying about what's going to happen next, sharing in their happiness and feeling their pain. This is one of the best books I've ever read and can't wait for Mr. Malone's next book! I'm sad to see these characters go, but I am absolutely certain the next book will be as fantastic as both Nashville Gold and Kentucky Roses were!! Keep up the great work, Dekk, we need more great books like yours!!!

I have to say that A Kentucky Sunrise is one of the best books ive ever had the pleasure to read. The romance between the two characters is absolutely heart warming.

Barbara Blake is bound to have more books coming out soon. She will be one of the most successful writers of our time. I urge you all to buy and read this book you wont regret that you did. Way to go Barbara congratulations on writing a wonderful book!! Keep up the great work!

I want to speak to 2 people. To the reading public. If you don't get this...you are a fool. All I will say is that this author is one to look out for. Barbara Blake will give JK Rowling (Harry Potter) a run for her money.

To Barbara herself. We are not close anymore but I will always be your biggest fan. Good job sweetheart!

I was recently gifted with Kentucky's Covered Bridges by a friend who knew my late mother, and the Switzer Bridge enthusiast that she was. I was absolutely delighted with the details of Kentucky's history, architecture, and biographies that one would never expect in such a handy little collection. Including antebellum events and beyond, and even for non-Kentuckians, this is an enjoyable and extensive research into the nearly lost era of covered bridges and their nostalgia. The photography and landscapes are effectual portals into by-gone days and the romance and allure of a simpler time. I have visited "my mother's" bridge, seen the carvings in timber and listened to the stories that described a generation. This book preserves such memories and sheds light on a great deal of wonderful information about these gorgeous old structures.

I was also pleasantly surprised that the primary author, RWM Laughlin, had revealed what is renown, in Kentucky where I grew up, as the most extensive photographic chronicle of these bridges and related events, people, and history. This is a remarkable collection to impress any enthusiast and the casual reader alike. Laughlin, historian and authority, has lent us all a wonderful gift by sharing his private collections and those of others which span centuries in this pictorial and expository work. Together, Laughlin and Jurgenson have created and preserved the past in a remarkable volume of Kentucky's Covered Bridges.

Robert Laughlin and his co-author have done a wonderful job at bringing these old timbered tunnels back to life. Even those who have never given covered bridges the first thought will find the excellent writing and magnificent photographs interesting. For those of us who are nostalgic for those bygone days this book is a must have. I look forward to Laughlin's next book.

I've purchsed this beautiful calendar for 10 years as an homage to my true home, Kentucky. Every month I am reminded of the beauty the state holds.

The skill of the photographer does not come across very well in the mini-photos on the back cover.

For a start. Quite a few of the photos contain an earily beautiful mist. And the two winter scenes, January and December, are a perfect composition of snow, sky and trees. I almost felt like it was me out there in a sublime appreciation of nature.

Unfortunately a black and orange abomination of a sunset spoils the overall perfection of this calendar. (June) But that's just my particular taste.

To all the W&S afficionados out there, this is a great 2008 calendar. To everyone else, I thoroughly recommend this calendar. Worth every cent.