[.ca] Key West: History of an Island of Dreams (ISBN 0813029937)

makes history accessible and interesting...:
Ogle's use of imagery and language elevate this subject above and beyond your typical scholarly tome. Never dry or overly academic, the author's novelistic treatment makes the history of this magical island come alive. Highly recommended for history buffs, "Papa" devotees, and anyone else who appreciates a masterful blend of information and good old-fashioned storytelling. I eagerly await the author's soon-to-be-published book about beer!

Riveting history:
A book on the history of Key West -- with all of its pirates, wreckers, rum runners and assorted scalawags -- should be lively, engaging and colorful. Maureen Ogle has accomplished just that with this readable and fascinating story. I say "story" because it reads that way, as a tale, not a dry recitation of events. Dry? Hardly. You won't get through this book without your jaw dropping at some of the incidents related in its pages. Ogle's research is thorough with plenty of personal correspondence and colorful firsthand detail that really gives you a resident's eye view of this island. I'm visiting Key West next year and I can't wait to go. Whether or not you've been there, this book makes for an excellent read. Highly recommended.

Key West, History of an Island of Dreams:
An entertaining and comprehensive history of Key West, Florida. Maureen Ogle, an historian of note, has captured the essence and spirit of Key West in a fascinating and well-researched history of one of America's most intriguing places. A must read.

Couldn't put it down!:
I grew up in the Florida Keys, and this historical account has been my favorite so far! I could feel, smell and see Key West through the author's writings, which were peppered with personal stories of the people who lived there throughout history. Wonderful details were included that enhanced my knowledge of events I've always been curious about. Highly recommended!

Any who relishes the region will want this lively history:
Key West has long been relished as a tropical paradise: this provides not just a travelogue of the region, but a history of Key West's many changes; from its Union seizure where citizens lived under martial law for four years, to its technical marvel of a vast overseas railroad which ran from mainland Florida to Key West. Any who relishes the region will want this lively history.