Laurel Downing Bill's Blog

Strike it Rich Sourdough Pancakes Recipe

A few years ago, I wrote the Sourdough Cookery Cookbook, which became one of my bestsellers on Etsy. This week, I wanted to share one of my favorite recipes on the blog, Strike It Rich Sourdough Pancakes.

I created this recipe for those who are watching their fat/sugar etc. AND those who want the “loaded” variety. Enjoy!

Strike it Rich Pancakes

Ingredients:
1-1/2 cups sourdough starter
1-1/2 cups lukewarm low-fat milk
1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons half Splenda/half sugar (or granulated sugar)
1/4 cup liquid egg substitute (or 1 egg)
4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon Lite salt (or salt)
1 teaspoon baking soda

The night before:
Remove your sourdough starter from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. Pour 1-1/2 cups sourdough
into a large bowl and add milk and flour, stir well, cover and let set on counter until morning. (Don’t forget to add 1-1/2 cups of flour and 1-1/2 cups of water to your original starter, stir, and let it sit on your counter for a few hours before you put it back in the refrigerator!)

In the morning:
Mix the sourdough starter, sugar, egg, olive oil and salt. Mix well. When ready to make pancakes, add the baking soda.

This will cause a gentle foaming and rising action in the batter. Let the mixture bubble and foam a minute or two.

For each pancake, pour 1/4 to 1/2 cup sourdough pancake batter onto a hot griddle. When bubbles form and sides look
cooked, flip the pancake over for another 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown.

Makes 12 nice-size pancakes.

The post Strike it Rich Sourdough Pancakes Recipe appeared first on Aunt Phil's Trunk.

Alaska Gifts Guide: Authentic Alaska Gifts for Everyone

(This article contains affiliate links. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links.)

You don’t have to get on a plane to purchase the perfect Alaska gift for your loved ones. Aunt Phil’s Trunk has scoured the internet to find authentic Alaska gift ideas for the whole family. Whether you are shopping for someone who is planning to travel to Alaska, an Alaskan who recently moved and misses the last frontier, or someone who simply loves this great state, we’ve got you covered!

Alaska Salmon

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This gift box trio of premium wild Alaska smoked sockeye, coho, and pink salmon from SeaBear Smokehouse will be shipped directly from their smokehouse to your loved one. This delicious fish is vacuum-sealed and shelf-stable for up to four years until the pack is opened. It makes a wonderful gift for a hiker, camper, or anyone who wants to enjoy wild-caught fish at home from Alaska at home. Visit SeaBear Smokehouse store to shop their gift boxes.

 

Ulu and Cutting Board Set

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The ulu is an all-purpose knife that has been used by Alaska Natives for centuries. It’s the perfect tool for skinning and cutting fish, chopping vegetables, slicing pizza, and more. This handmade Inupiat-style ulu is made of birch wood and stainless steel. This particular gift set received excellent reviews on Amazon, however; one reviewer recommended purchasing a sheath to go with the knife because it is quite sharp. Stop by Amazon to purchase this gift set from The Ulu Company.

 

Alaska Sourdough Starter Gift Set

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Give a piece of Alaska to that special baker in your life. The Sourdough Cookery Kit includes a handmade sourdough pot from Doin’It Alaska Style, an autographed copy of Sourdough Cookery cookbook written by me (Laurel Downing Bill), a sourdough starter from my great-grandfather that dates back to 1896 Hope, Alaska, a wooden spoon and a jug of birch syrup from Kahiltna Birchworks of Talkeetna, Alaska, for the first batch of sourdough pancakes made from this gold-rush starter. Learn more about the Sourdough Cookery gift set here.

 

Totem Pole

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A classic Alaska souvenir is a locally made, hand-carved totem pole. Alaska Natives traditionally created totem poles to symbolize the values, traditions, and history of a community or to tell stories passed down from generation to generation. This Ketchikan totem pole titled Eagle Boy was carved by artist Patrick Seal. You can purchase this and many other handmade Alaskan gifts here.

 

Alaska Airlines Playset

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Do you need a gift for a little one who is planning to hop on a plane and visit Alaska for the first time? This Alaska Airlines playset makes a fun gift that will make your little traveler even more excited for the upcoming flight. The set includes an aircraft, ground service vehicles, and assorted signs. Visit the Classic Toys website to purchase this and other Alaska-theme toys straight from Anchorage.

 

I Love Alaska Mug

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This I Love Alaska Mug is available in both 11- and 15-ounce sizes. We offer dozens of designs to represent your love of Alaska, including this lovely shot of Denali. Made of white ceramic, this mug is dishwasher and microwave-safe. You can see all of the design options at www.etsy.com/AuntPhilsTrunk

I hope that you enjoyed this list of authentic Alaska gifts. Take a moment to visit the websites on this list and support Alaska businesses. If you are looking for more gift ideas, consider sharing Aunt Phil’s Trunk Alaska history series with your loved ones.

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A Guide to the Best Alaska Children’s Books

(This article contains affiliate links. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links.) Alaska is a remarkable place with its breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and rich cultures. These children’s books about Alaska will not only entertain you but also help you understand and appreciate the wonders of the Last Frontier. We have included everything from gorgeously illustrated picture books to captivating young adult adventure stories.

1. Raven’s Friends: Alaska Animals Far and Wide written and illustrated by fourth-generation Alaskan Kim Sherry Children ages 4-8 will love this beautifully illustrated picture book as they follow its narrator, Raven, through 32 pages filled with colorful illustrations and poems that share facts about animals that call Alaska home.

2. Berry Magic by Teri Sloat and Betty Huffmon
Berry Magic follows the adventures of a young girl named Lila, who discovers a magical berry bush in her grandmother’s garden. When Lila tastes the berries, something extraordinary happens – she gains the ability to communicate with animals.

3. The Year of Miss Agnes by Kirkpatrick Hill
Fred (short for Frederika) is a 10-year-old student living in remote Alaska who is about to have an unforgettable school year. A new teacher has arrived in the village. Miss Agnes doesn’t believe in giving grades. She throws away the old textbooks and reads stories to them like Robin Hood and Snow White. This touching story gives readers a taste of life in
a remote Alaska village.

4. Kodi by Jared Cullum
Kodi is the story of a young girl named Katya who is spending the summer with her Meema in a beautiful cabin in the Alaska woods. Katya unexpectedly runs into a big friendly Kodiak bear who needs her help. After a successful rescue, Katya, who has had difficulty making friends with the other kids, spends all her free time with Kodi. When the two friends get separated, Kodi sets out on an adventure to become reunited with his best friend.

5. Sweet Home Alaska by Carol Estby Dagg
Terpsichore (terp-si-chor-ee) Johnson and her family hit hard times like many families in Wisconsin during the Great Depression. President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal gave families like the Johnson’s a chance to start over in rural Alaska. Terpsichore is excited to be a pioneer and live like Laura Ingalls Wilder, but Mrs. Johnson isn’t convinced this is the right move for their family. How will the family adapt to this new way of life in the Last Frontier?

6. Home is the North by Walt Morey
Alex is a young boy who lives in a remote Alaska village with his family. When a devastating blizzard strikes their community, Alex’s family becomes separated, and he is left alone in the cold, harsh environment. Determined to find his loved ones, Alex embarks on a courageous journey through icy forests and treacherous mountains. Along the way, he encounters wild animals, faces dangerous obstacles, and learns important lessons about survival and the true meaning of family.

7. Ordinary Dogs, Extraordinary Friendships by Pam Flowers
Ordinary Dogs, Extraordinary Friendships is a collection of 11 adventures from the life of explorer and dog musher Pam Flowers. Each story contains an exciting tale of friendship, teamwork, compassion, courage, and many more positive character traits the author witnessed in her dog team. Each story focuses on an important life lesson the author has learned from her companions.

8. Diamond Willow by Helen Frost
Twelve-year-old Willow isn’t very happy with her life in Old Fork, Alaska. All she wants is time alone with her dogs. Her best friend, Kaylie, is preoccupied with a boy she likes. Her parents don’t seem to really see her. After she convinces her parents to let her mush her favorite dog, Roxy, and two other dogs to her grandparents’ house alone, a dangerous
accident causes Willow to learn more about who she is and all the people who care for her.

9. Julie of the Wolves by Jean Craighead George
Julie of the Wolves tells the tale of a young girl named Julie lost in the Alaska wilderness.
She befriends a wolf pack, learns their language, and faces a difficult choice between her
human life and her new wolf family. This captivating story explores the balance between
nature and civilization and the meaning of belonging.

10. The Dragline Kid and Her Golden Wish by Lisa Augustine
Children ages 4-8 will delight in this story of a little girl who dreams of being a gold miner like her daddy in Alaska’s wilderness. Written by longtime Alaskan Lisa Augustine, this sweet story shows that dreams can come true.

Whether delving into the Alaska wilderness with Julie, exploring the Arctic with Alex, or embarking on whimsical journeys with Lila, children will be transported to a world filled with magic and discovery. So, grab a cozy blanket, find a comfortable spot, and let these Alaska children’s books whisk you away on unforgettable literary adventures!

 

Aunt Phil’s Trunk now offers two new creative writing courses created for homeschool families, co-ops, and classrooms that teach students how to analyze writing and create their own written masterpieces. The middle school course includes several of the books that we recommended in this article. Learn more about the courses for both middle school and high school here.

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The Top 5 Best Alaska Podcasts: Alaska History, Current Events, and More

Are you a fan of podcasts and Alaska? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the top five best Alaska podcasts that are sure to capture your attention and keep you listening for hours. We’ve included everything from award-winning Alaska history podcasts to shows that will keep you informed about current events and Alaska living.

1. Wrangell History Unlocked

First on our list is the Wrangell History Unlocked podcast, which recently won a national award for its series on the Star of Bengal. Hosted by the Wrangell Museum, this podcast uncovers the rich history of Wrangell, Alaska. From the Tlingit people to the gold rush, each episode delves deep into the town’s past and brings it to life through engaging storytelling and interviews with local experts. If you’re a history buff or just interested in learning more about this unique Alaska town, Wrangell History Unlocked is a must-listen. Listen here

2. Alaska Public Media’s Outdoor Explorer

Alaska Public Media’s Outdoor Explorer is a podcast for all you outdoor enthusiasts out there. From hiking and camping to fishing and skiing, this podcast covers it all. Host Charles Wohlforth talks to guests from around the state about their outdoor adventures and shares tips and tricks for exploring Alaska’s wilderness. With more than 300 episodes available, there’s no shortage of content to keep you entertained and informed. Learn more here

3. Talk of Alaska

If you’re looking for a podcast that covers a wide range of topics related to Alaska, Talk of Alaska is the one for you. Hosted by Alaska Public Media’s Lori Townsend, this podcast features discussions with experts and locals on everything from politics and the economy to culture and the environment. With new episodes airing every Tuesday, Talk of Alaska is a great way to stay informed about what’s happening in the state. Learn more here

4. The Alaska Life

The Alaska Life podcast is a celebration of all things Alaska. Hosted by Jeff Adams and his team, this podcast covers a variety of topics, including outdoor recreation, wildlife, and Alaska’s unique culture. With guests ranging from fishermen to artists, each episode offers a different perspective on what it means to live in Alaska. If you’re a fan of The Alaska Life Facebook page, you’ll definitely want to check out this podcast as well. Listen on Apple Podcasts

5. The Alaska Show

Last, but not least, on our list is The Alaska Show. Hosted by Alex Trokey and produced by Alaska Airlines, this podcast explores what makes Alaska such a special place. From the aurora borealis to the Iditarod, each episode takes a deep dive into a different aspect of Alaska’s culture and history. With guests ranging from local experts to Alaska Airlines employees, you’ll get a well-rounded view of what this state has to offer. Listen on Stitcher

There you have it – the top five best Alaska podcasts. Whether you’re a long-time resident or just dreaming of visiting this beautiful state, these podcasts are sure to keep you entertained and informed.

If you love Alaska history, you don’t want to miss my recent blog post, Alaska History: Must-Read Books about Alaska’s Colorful Past or take home your own piece of Alaska history with Aunt Phil’s Trunk Alaska history series.

Happy listening!

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Alaska History Books: Must-read books about Alaska’s Colorful Past

 

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(This article contains affiliate links. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links.)

If you’re a fan of Alaska history, you’re in the right place! I’ve compiled a list of must-read Alaska history books that offer a captivating and informative glimpse into this great state’s colorful past. From Alaska Natives inhabiting the north country for thousands of years, to Russian explorers arriving in the 1700s, to Americans heading north in more recent history, these books cover major events that helped shaped Alaska over the years. The books I’ve chosen include stories about the Klondike Gold Rush, building the Alaska Railroad, the largest volcanic eruption in North American history, and early statehood. 

Whether you’re an avid historian or just looking for an entertaining read, these books offer a captivating look into the people, places, and events that have made Alaska such a unique and fascinating state. So, let’s dive into the world of Alaska’s history and discover all this remarkable state has to offer.

[image error][image error][image error][image error] Alaska’s History: The People, The Land, and Events of the North Country by Harry Ritter

Alaska’s History: The People, The Land, and Events of the North Country is a fascinating book about the history of Alaska. It tells the story of the people who have lived there for thousands of years, from the Alaska Natives to the Russian explorers who came to the region in the 1700s. The book goes on to cover pivotal events such as the Klondike Gold Rush, the building of the Alaska Railroad, and the discovery of oil in the 1960s.

One of the most interesting things about Alaska’s History is the way it describes the unique landscape and wildlife of the region. The book also discusses the many different animals that live in Alaska, including grizzly bears, wolves, and moose.

Whether you are a student, a history buff, or just someone who loves a good story, this book is definitely worth checking out.

Other books by Harry Ritter: Washington’s History: The People, Land, and Events of the Far Northwest and Dictionary of Concepts in History

The Call of the Last Frontier: The True Story of a Woman’s Twenty-Year Alaska Adventure by Melissa L. Cook

Here is a description of The Call of the Last Frontier from the author:

“I went to Alaska for a job and found a twenty-year adventure!” – Melissa L. Cook

In 1995, schoolteacher Melissa Cook and her young family spent two years in the isolated Aleut village of Nelson Lagoon on the edge of the Bering Sea. They later settled in the Tongass National Forest on Prince of Wales Island, where they measured rain in feet. With humor, vivid detail, and heart-pounding excitement, Melissa recounts her family’s day-to-day joys, struggles, and captivating adventures.

Throughout the book, Cook weaves in historical information about Alaska’s past, including the Aleut internment camps during WWII, old logging camps in southeast Alaska, and the sinking of the S.S. Princess Sophia in 1918.

For those seeking inspiration to chase their dreams and push beyond their limits, Cook’s memoir is a must-read. Her story is a testament to the resilience required to overcome adversity and the power of adventure to transform lives. This tale will surely delight Alaska adventure fans and anyone who has ever dreamed of traveling or living in the Last Frontier.

The Great Book of Alaska: The Crazy History of Alaska with Amazing Random Facts & Trivia by Bill O’Neill

The Great Book of Alaska: The Crazy History of Alaska with Amazing Random Facts & Trivia by Bill O’Neill is an enjoyable and educational book that tells the story of Alaska’s past. The book is filled with interesting tales and fun facts, making it entertaining for readers of all ages.

The book covers a range of topics, including the early explorers of Alaska, the gold rush, and the state’s unique geography and wildlife. The writing is straightforward and easy to understand, with numerous pictures and illustrations that bring the stories to life. 

The Great Book of Alaska is an excellent choice for anyone looking to learn more about the history of this fascinating state, whether you’re an Alaska history enthusiast or just looking for an entertaining read.

Other books by Bill O’Neill: The Big Book of American Facts: 1000 Interesting Facts And Trivia About USA and The Totally Awesome Book of Crazy Stories: Crazy But True Stories That Actually Happened

Alaska: A History by Claus M. Naske, Herman E. Slotnick

Alaska: A History tells the story of Alaska from the time when people first arrived there up to the present day. It describes how the Native people hunted and fished to survive and traded with other cultures. The book also talks about how the Russians traded with the Native people, but later sold Alaska to the United States. It explains how Alaska became a state and how it has changed over time.

The book also talks about the different ways people have made a living in Alaska, such as mining for gold, cutting down trees for lumber, and fishing for salmon. It also explains how people have built cities and towns in Alaska, even though the weather can be cold and snowy. Overall, Alaska: A History is a fascinating book that tells an exciting story about one of the most unique and captivating places in the world.

Other books by Claus M. Naske and Herman E. Slotnick: Alaska: A History of the 49th State

Other books by Claus M. Naske: Bob Bartlett of Alaska: A Life in Politics

Aunt Phil’s Trunk Alaska History Series by Laurel Downing Bill

Aunt Phil’s Trunk Alaska History Series is an award-winning collection of books that highlight Alaska’s colorful past from 1900 to 1985. Each book covers a different time period in Alaska history through short stories and more than 350 historical photographs.

“I’ve been touting these books since the first volume appeared. They combine clear writing and plenty of details without getting bogged down in minutia. They include both the big stories and many lesser-known incidents. And they are densely illustrated with photographs showing what life was like in Alaska’s earlier days. It’s a great package, and it hasn’t failed yet … If you haven’t done so, take some time and open Aunt Phil’s Trunk; you’ll find plenty of treasures inside.” – David James, Fairbanks Daily News Miner

Did you know that famous gunslinger Wyatt Earp opened a saloon in Nome? Or that sled dogs paved the way for travel into many remote camps in Alaska? Those stories and more are in this must-read for all who enjoy Alaska history!

In Volume Two, of the Aunt Phil’s Trunk series, readers are taken on a journey of discovery when prospectors stumbled across gold in the Iditarod, men summited the mighty mountain called Denali, and the people of Kodiak survived the largest volcanic eruption in North American history. 

Four additional books cover different time periods in Alaska history:

Aunt Phil’s Trunk Volume 1: Up to 1900

Aunt Phil’s Trunk Volume 3: 1912-1935

Aunt Phil’s Trunk Volume 4: 1935-1960

Aunt Phil’s Trunk Volume 5: 1960-1985

(Aunt Phil’s Trunk of Alaska Trivia is also available for those who want to test their knowledge of Alaska history.)

Each book is full of unique stories and photographs, making them an excellent choice for anyone interested in learning about Alaska’s past. 

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In conclusion, these books offer a fascinating look into the natural beauty and diverse cultures that make Alaska so unique. They cover a range of topics, from the indigenous peoples of Alaska to the gold rush and early settlement. So, grab a book and take a journey through Alaska’s history today!

Would you like more book recommendations? Read my blog post Must-Read Alaska Nonficton Books.

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Best Alaska Books: Must-Read Alaska Nonfiction Books

Alaska is a state known for its stunning natural beauty and unique culture. If you’re interested in learning more about this fascinating place, nonfiction books are a great way to go. Whether you’re interested in history, wildlife, or adventure, there’s sure to be a book that will pique your interest.

No matter what your interests are, there’s a nonfiction book out there that will help you learn more about Alaska. So whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, be sure to add some Alaska nonfiction books to your reading list. I compiled this list of the best Alaska nonfiction books from my personal library and recommendations of book blogger friends to help you get started.

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Coming into the Country with John McPhee by John McPhee

John McPhee’s book, Coming into the Country, is a detailed account of Alaska’s landscape, culture, and people. The book is divided into three parts, each focused on a different aspect of the state.

In the first part, McPhee writes about the Yukon Territory and the people who live there. He describes the isolation and harsh conditions that the people face, as well as their strong connection to the land. In the second part, McPhee explores the history of Alaska and the people who have shaped it. He writes about the gold rush, the construction of the Alaska Pipeline, and the state’s relationship with the federal government. In the final part, McPhee focuses on the wilderness of Alaska and the people who choose to live there. He writes about hunting, fishing, and the struggle to survive in such a remote and unforgiving environment.

Overall, Coming into the Country is a fascinating and detailed exploration of Alaska and its
people. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in Alaska or wilderness exploration.

Other books by John McPhee: The Control of Nature, Annals of the Former World, Draft No. 4:
On the Writing Process

 

The Impossible Rescue: The True Story of Amazing Arctic Adventure by Martin W. Sandler

In 1897, eight whaling vessels became bound by ice in the Arctic Ocean near Point Barrow, Alaska. Nearly 300 whalemen were in danger of freezing or starving to death until United States President William McKinley ordered an unprecedented overland rescue expedition.

This real-life adventure story follows the three brave men who were sent to bring supplies, medical aid, and hope to Americans who were trapped in the Arctic in the middle of winter. It includes several first-hand quotes from eyewitnesses and dozens of beautiful pictures of Point Barrow, Alaska and the surrounding areas. If you love Alaska history and a good adventure story, this book is sure to delight.

I enjoyed this book so much that I decided to include it in Aunt Phil’s Trunk Creative Writing Course for High School. This is one of 8 books about Alaska that our students get to enjoy as they learn how to craft their own stories, poems, essays, and more.

Other books by Martin W. Sandler: Resolute: The Epic Search for the Northwest Passage and John Franklin, and the Discovery of the Queen’s Ghost Ship, 1919 The Year that Changed America

 

Pilgrim’s Wilderness: The True Story of Faith and Madness on the Alaska Frontier by Tom Kizzia

Pilgrim’s Wilderness is a true story about a family who moves to the Alaskan frontier to live in the wilderness. The father, called “Papa Pilgrim,” claims to be a religious figure and leads his family to live off the land. However, it soon becomes clear that Papa Pilgrim is not all he seems, and the family’s life in the wilderness becomes a nightmare.

The book is a gripping tale of survival, madness, and the consequences of blindly following a charismatic leader. It is a cautionary tale about the dangers of extremism and a reminder that the pursuit of a dream can sometimes turn into a nightmare.

Other books by Tom Kizzia: Cold Mountain Path: The Ghost Town Decades of McCarthy-Kennecott, Alaska, The Wake of the Unseen Object: Travels through Alaska’s Native Landscapes

 

Shadows on the Koyukuk: An Alaskan Native’s Life Along the River by Sidney Huntington

Shadows on the Koyukuk tells the story of Sidney Huntington, an Alaskan Native who grew up along the Koyukuk River in Alaska. Throughout the book, Huntington recounts his life growing up in a traditional Athabaskan community and how his way of life changed as Alaska became more modernized.

The book is full of fascinating stories about the challenges and triumphs of living off the land in Alaska. Huntington shares his experiences hunting, trapping, and fishing, as well as the many lessons he learned from his elders about how to survive in such a harsh environment. Overall, Shadows on the Koyukuk is an inspiring and deeply personal memoir that offers readers a unique glimpse into the life of an Alaskan Native.

 

Tisha: The Story of a Young Teacher in the Alaskan Wilderness by Robert Specht

Tisha: The Story of a Young Teacher in the Alaskan Wilderness by Robert Specht is an inspiring true story about a young woman named Anne Hobbs who moves to a remote village in Alaska to become a teacher. Despite facing many challenges, including extreme weather and cultural differences, Anne is determined to make a difference in the lives of her students.

Throughout the book, readers get a glimpse into the daily life of Anne and her students, as they learn from each other and work to overcome the obstacles that they face. Overall, Tisha is a heartwarming book that will inspire readers to pursue their dreams and make a difference in the world around them.

Other books by Robert Specht: The Soul of Betty Fairchild and The Immortal

 

Two in the Far North by Margaret Murie

Two in the Far North is a memoir by Margaret Murie, who lived in Alaska with her husband from the 1920s to the 1940s. The book tells the story of their life in the wilderness, where they encountered challenges such as harsh weather conditions and wild animals. Despite these difficulties, the couple found beauty in the natural world around them, and their experiences inspired Margaret to become a passionate advocate for conservation.

In the book, Margaret Murie shares her love for Alaska and its wildlife. She describes the beauty of the land and the animals that call it home, and she emphasizes the importance of preserving these natural treasures for future generations. Two in the Far North is a powerful reminder of the beauty and fragility of the natural world, and it encourages readers to take action to protect it.

Other books by Margaret Murie: Wapiti Wilderness and Island Between

 

Alaska’s Wolfman: The 1915-55 Wilderness Adventures of Frank Glaser by Jim Rearden

Alaska’s Wolfman tells the story of Frank Glaser, a legendary hunter and trapper who lived in the Alaskan wilderness for 40 years. Glaser was known for his incredible hunting skills, but also for his bravery and resourcefulness in the face of danger.

The book is filled with exciting stories of Glaser’s encounters with wolves, bears, and other dangerous animals, as well as his experiences living in the harsh Alaskan wilderness. Despite the many challenges he faced, Glaser was able to survive and thrive in this unforgiving environment, thanks to his deep knowledge of the land and his incredible survival skills. It is a gripping and inspiring tale of one man’s incredible journey through the Alaskan wilderness that is sure to leave readers in awe of Frank Glaser’s bravery and determination.

Other books by Jim Rearden: Jim Rearden’s Alaska: 50 Years of Frontier Adventure, Sam O. White, Alaskan: Tales of a Legendary Wildlife Agent and Bush Pilot, and Wolves of Alaska: A Fact-Based Saga

 

Blonde Indian: An Alaska Native Memoir by Ernestine Hayes

Blonde Indian: An Alaska Native Memoir is the personal account of author Ernestine Hayes’ life growing up as an Alaska Native. The book is divided into two parts: “Blonde” and “Indian,” which represent the two sides of her identity. “Blonde” reflects her experiences growing up in a world dominated by white people, while “Indian” explores her connection to her Native heritage and the struggles faced by her people.

Throughout the memoir, Hayes shares stories of her life and reflects on the history and culture of Alaska Native people. She discusses the devastating impact of colonization, forced assimilation, and the complex relationships between Native people and the land.

Other books by Ernestine Hayes: The Tao of Raven: An Alaska Native Memoir and Juneau

 

Aunt Phil’s Trunk Alaska History Series by Laurel Downing Bill

Of course, I could not end this article without mentioning my favorite Alaska history series, Aunt Phil’s Trunk! Volume One is filled with short stories highlighting Alaska’s colorful past from the arrival of the Native people thousands of years ago all the way up to the Klondike Gold Rush of 1898. I share stories of the rushes for gold to the Koyukuk, Juneau-Douglas and Cook Inlet regions and features an extensive photo essay showing the various routes the gold-
crazed prospectors forged to get to the gold fields.

Not only do the easy-to-read pages keep readers hooked, they also offer a window into the past with close to 350 historical photographs to complement the entertaining collection of stories. And they won the 2016 Literary Classics gold medal for best nonfiction series!

Four additional books cover different time periods in Alaska history:

Aunt Phil’s Trunk Volume 2: 1900-1912
Aunt Phil’s Trunk Volume 3: 1912-1935
Aunt Phil’s Trunk Volume 4: 1935-1960
Aunt Phil’s Trunk Volume 5: 1960-1985
Aunt Phil’s Trunk of Alaska Trivia

These books are just a few of the many great Alaska nonfiction books out there. No matter what your interests are, there’s sure to be a book that will help you learn more about this fascinating state.

Happy reading!

 

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Catching up and new books!

New offerings from Aunt Phil’s Trunk!

Hard to believe it’s been more than a year since I’ve shared life events and new books with all of you. Needless to say, I have been busy juggling family and business!

First, and most important, I want to thank you again for all the prayers for grandson Toben. I am happy to report that his last chemo infusion was two weeks ago at UC Davis in Sacramento. The staff held a giant party for our now 7-year-old boy and let him ring a special bell three times to signal that his massive-dose chemo treatments for leukemia had come to an end. His parents and little brothers are planning a trip to Leggo Land to celebrate after Christmas. We are truly blessed.

Aunt Phil’s Trunk news is awesome, as well. I developed full curriculum for my Alaska history series a little more than a year ago (the crescendo of voices from parents and teachers finally became too loud to ignore) and it recently took the Silver Medal for Education from Literary Classics International. We now are in three Alaska school districts, as well as hundreds of home/charter schools. And the word from teachers, parents and students is that all are having a blast using the books for their Alaska history studies.

I have not written anymore books in the series, but I do have a few new offerings to tell you about in my Aunt Phil’s Trunk Proudly Presents series. You already know about The Spell of the Yukon and Other Verses by Robert Service and The Call of the Wild and Other Northland Stories by Jack London (with biographies of the authors written by me in the back of the books) that debuted in 2016 and 2017, respectively.

I recently added The Spoilers by Rex Beach and Where The Sun Swings North by Barrett Willoughby to the Proudly Presents lineup.

Rex Beach was in Nome in 1900 when the town exploded with more than 20,000 people looking for gold nuggets on the beaches. A crooked lawyer, shady judge and corrupt politicians colluded to steal the best mines, which threw the question of legal ownership into doubt. While the court was supposed to be sorting out the mess, the conspirators looted the gold to split among them.

The Spoilers hit the bestseller list when it debuted on bookstore shelves in 1906 and was made into a movie five times – even John Wayne starred in one of the versions in the 1940s.

The Aunt Phil’s Trunk Proudly Presents The Spoilers, released this summer, also has the real story of what happened in Nome during that time and a biography of Beach, both written by me, at the end of the book.

Then it occurred to me that Service, London and Beach – although making Alaska famous – did not spend much time in the Last Frontier. That thought led me to the question: Who was Alaska’s first authentic author?

My research uncovered Barrett Willoughby’s novel, Where The Sun Swings North. (Her first name was Florence, but Putnam & Sons told her to use a male name because no one would buy a book written by a woman in 1922.)

Her historical fiction tale features a family marooned on an island in Southeast Alaska for a year with only a month’s worth of food. It rings true because it happened to her in real life!

Her father sailed with the family from Washington state into the Gulf of Alaska in 1896. He then got them stuck on Middleton Island – a one-mile by four-mile island with no trees and no animals – for a year with only a month’s worth of food. That they survived is a miracle.

Rescued by a cannery ship in 1897, the father heard of the Klondike gold rush and packed his family off to search for golden riches. Then he later heard about the oil discovery in Katalla, near Cordova, and moved the family there for about 20-plus years.

Where The Sun Swings North was a huge hit across the United States. Hollywood soon came calling and turned it into a movie with John Barrymore and Marlena Dietrich starring. Barrett Willoughby went on to write more books about Alaska and was quite famous in the 1920s-1930s. I wrote a nice biography about her in the back of the Proudly Presents book.

I’m sure that you, or the history fan in your life, will enjoy one or more of these books written by famous authors from days gone by. They will make great Christmas presents and I will personally autograph each book for you.

Merry Christmas to each and every one of you wonderful Alaska history fans – Thanks for your patience with my lack of blogging during this past year, and I promise to do better in 2020.

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History comes full circle for Aunt Phil!

The family of Jacob Marunenko, known to Anchorage as “Russian Jack” holds a painting of their ancestor that hangs in the Wells Fargo Russian Jack branch. From left: Sergei Marunenko, Tanya Malinovskiy, Olga Marunenko and Gregori Marunenko.

A crazy thing recently happened that I must share with you awesome Alaska history fans. One of my weekly TV shows led to a voyage of discovery for a family from California this past week.

Tanya Malinovskiy from Roseville, California, reached out to me after she saw my Story Time with Aunt Phil segment on “Russian Jack,” which aired on Anchorage CBS affiliate KTVA Channel 11 Daybreak show in November 2017. When she learned that our Russian Jack, an Anchorage pioneer who arrived here back when Anchorage was just starting out in 1915 was Jacob Marunenko, she exclaimed, “That’s my great-grandfather!”

She shared with me that her Ukrainian family had lost all contact with Jacob after he left his home country in 1910 to find a better life in America. Tanya explained that the family never talked about him, because at that time if anyone said they had a relative in the United States the entire family would suffer at the hands of the Ukrainian government – they might even be killed.

When she saw my story on YouTube, Click here to watch video she knew she had to come to Anchorage to see what sort of a town would love her great-grandfather so much that it named a beautiful park, elementary school, bank branch, street and apartment building after him.

On Sept. 12, I had the honor of meeting Tanya and her family – 78-year-old father Gregori, brother Sergie and sister Olga – and introducing them to Bruce Merrell, now-retired ZJ Loussac Public Library Alaska reference librarian who has extensively researched Russian Jack’s past. Bruce shared many documents and pieces of their long-lost puzzle about Jack’s life after he left Ukraine.

Bruce and I then led them to Russian Jack Springs Park. A KTVA Channel 11 crew filmed this emotional visit as we all watched Russian Jack’s grandson and great-grandchildren walk around the property that Jacob had once homesteaded. Jacob, who changed his name to Jack Marchin, had earned a living chopping down trees and selling wood and operating a still and selling moonshine on this piece of land that now is a 320-acre park that welcomes Anchorage residents with a golf course, greenhouse, ski trails and meeting chalet.

They also visited a Wells Fargo bank branch named for Russian Jack and held a replica of a painting of their famous relative that proudly hangs on the wall of the bank manager’s office. Two other crowning points of the family’s visit included sharing Russian Jack’s life with third-, fourth- and fifth-grade classes at the elementary school that bears his name. After I shared a bit about the early Anchorage that met Jack’s eyes at the turn-of-the-last century, Tanya told the children about Jack’s life in Ukraine and how his descendants immigrated to America in the 1980s and 1990s and how much they love the United States. The children sang their school song for the family, which brought tears to grandson Gregori’s eyes.

We then made our way to Anchorage City Hall, where Mayor Ethan Berkowitz greeted them and visited with the family. He pinned each member of Russian Jack’s family with Anchorage’s official anchor pin. That evening KTVA 11 aired a short news story about the family’s story, which originally was to be a longer clip but Hurricane Florence news overshadowed the news cycle. Click here to watch the news clip

The family left Anchorage with the knowledge that even though Jacob had been lost to them, he had found an entire community that loved him, and following his death in 1973, had perpetuated his memory for future generations.

As a side note, Bruce Merrell shared with me a bit of stunning news. He had been trained as an Alaska reference librarian by my Aunt Phil (Phyllis Downing Carlson) and had taken her job when she retired in the 1980s. As he was cleaning out his/her desk a few years later, he found an index card on which Aunt Phil had written Russian Jack’s real name and his address in California where he had moved in the late 1950s.

That information is what led him to research the life of our “Russian Jack.” Bruce shared his research with me in 2008 so I could write about Jack in the fourth book of my Aunt Phil’s Trunk Alaska history series.

So the story of Russian Jack has come full circle for me. My Aunt Phil had a hand in jumpstarting research that gathered missing parts of a puzzle about Jack’s life. And modern-day Aunt Phil’s little TV show helped bring together those puzzle pieces to answer questions for Jack’s family.

My books’ slogan, “Bringing Alaska’s history alive,” has even more meaning for me now!

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Aunt Phil update and new gift idea!

Limited supply of handmade sourdough pot gift packages available for the holidays from Aunt Phil’s Trunk!

Before I share the exciting news about the great gift idea for the upcoming holiday season from Aunt Phil’s Trunk, I need to share updates of what’s been happening in Aunt Phil’s world since my last blog post a few months ago.

First, I want to thank everyone for the prayers, donations and well wishes for our now-5-year-old grandson, Toben, in his fight for his life against the leukemia that invaded his little body last August. He finished the heavy-duty chemotherapy treatments this summer and began kindergarten like a normal little boy last month. He will be on a maintenance regime of chemo taken daily at home, and once a month at a clinic, for the next two years. But the prognosis is good and we are hopeful that he will succeed in this battle. Continued prayers are appreciated.

While helping with grandchildren as Toben underwent treatments near Sacramento, I managed to finish all the curriculum workbooks and teacher guides for the Aunt Phil’s Trunk Alaska history series. The response, since their publication two months ago, from charter schools, village schools and home schools has been phenomenal. The feedback from students and their teachers include raving enthusiasm with this method of learning about Alaska’s colorful past. Entire families now are using the system, which also includes crossword, word search and word scramble puzzles based on chapters in the books, and having a ton of fun. I couldn’t ask for anything more than that, and I’m feeling so blessed.

And as some of you are aware, I also produced a couple of books with workbooks for literature study, as well: The Call of the Wild and Other Northland Stories, by Jack London, and The Spell of the Yukon and Other Verses, by Robert Service, with biographies written by me. This curriculum focuses on teaching students to create poems and stories from two masters of their crafts. I fear that youngsters are losing the ability to write in this digital world and want to help them realize how much fun they can have creating their own works.

All of the books and curriculum for history and literature are available on the Aunt Phil’s Trunk Website. There are several packages that offer nice discounts and free shipping. Check out the packages here!

Now to get back to my new offering of a special gift for the upcoming Christmas season. A local Anchorage potter agreed to make a few special sourdough pots for me, so I’ve created a limited supply of gift baskets that come with a packet of my great-grandfather’s sourdough starter dating back to the 1896 gold fields of Hope, Alaska.

Go to my Website to check out this new holiday gift idea. Valued at $100, I’m offering it for $64.95, plus shipping. The package includes one handmade sourdough pot, my Sourdough Cookery cookbook, the starter, a wooden spoon and a jug of birch syrup from Talkeetna for the first batch of sourdough pancakes the recipient makes.

Order now to save more than $35 and guarantee that your gift will be delivered before Christmas. Hurry – we only have a limited number of these gifts available. Sourdough Gift Package Link

Thank you all for your love and support – Alaska history fans rock!

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Alaska history curriculum now available!

Hello Alaska history fans!

Copies of the curriculum I developed for Aunt Phil’s Trunk just arrived – I am beyond excited! There is a student workbook and a teacher guide for each of the five books in my Alaska history series. Children from fourth grade up into high school can now have a lot of fun as they learn about Alaska’s colorful past.

Not only is the curriculum chock full of comprehension questions, discussion ideas and important facts, but it also features crossword puzzles, word scrambles and word searches that are based on lessons throughout the series.

Frontier Charter School in Anchorage just placed an order for the entire series and its representatives said they will “enthusiastically promote Aunt Phil’s Trunk for Alaska studies” this year.

The series, student workbooks and teacher guides also are available at my Website: Click Here

In case you missed the last couple of episodes of Alaska Story Time with Aunt Phil on TV, here are links to recent stories:

Last Shot of American Civil War in Bering Sea Click Here

History of Bogoslof volcano Click Here

Annabelle the elephant starts Alaska Zoo Click Here

Enjoy the rest of June!

Laurel

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