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Book Review of California: A Captivating Guide to the History of California, California Gold Rush and 1906 San Francisco Earthquake

jjares avatar reviewed on + 3292 more book reviews


Three smaller volumes have been combined into one eBook encompassing the story of CALIFORNIA.  The state has some fascinating history and Captivating History shows different aspects of this great state.

HISTORY OF CALIFORNIA -- Rating = G
The information about the many tribes of California was wonderful reading.  I enjoyed learning about the tribal groups and the early history of California.  However, much of this book was constantly reminding the reader of our racism and how America doesn't give ethnic groups a fair chance.  Frankly, it got very old. Those things occurred in another place and time. I'd prefer more history and fewer opinions. 

CALIFORNIA GOLD RUSH -- Rating = E
This story is a winner because the author explained money in today's dollars, in order to prove their point.  It was a real surprise to see how widely (from literally around the world) immigrants traveled to get to California. This 'unvarnished truth' was a welcome rendition of the story of the gold rush.  

1906 SAN FRANCISCO EARTHQUAKE -- Rating = E
This is very fine writing and the book takes the story from the lips of those who survived to tell the tale. It was surprising to learn that the small end of the tragedy was the actual earthquake. Stories are told from the viewpoint of those who were there.