Warriors, Saints, and Scoundrels: Brief Portraits of Real People Who Shaped Wisconsin

by Michael Edmonds, Samantha Snyder

A governor who saw ghosts, an incorrigible horse thief, a husband and wife who each stood over seven feet tall, an American Indian chief who defied forced removal, and the first woman to practice law before the Supreme these are just some of the remarkable characters whose lives influenced and defined the state of Wisconsin. Authors Michael Edmonds and Samantha Snyder plumbed the depths of the Wisconsin Historical Society’s collections to research and compose lively portraits of eighty of these notable mayors, ministers, mystics, murderers, and everything in between. Each story is followed by recommended sources for readers’ continued exploration. Whether read on the fly or all in one sitting, these short, colorful narratives will intrigue and inform as you delve into Wisconsin’s diverse and diverting history.

Genres: Nonfiction

224 pages, Paperback

Published April 14, 2017

Reviews

[Vince Mussehl · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a Wisconsin history junkie I found this book very satisfying. The various chapters provide the reader with just enough information to taste a piece of history throughout the state. They authors did a good job of finding information from all over Wisconsin and the length of each chapter inspired me to continually read "one more." The only reason I didn't give 5 stars is because they omitted Wisconsin's "snow baby" from Sawyer County in the mid-20th century. Maybe next volume? ;)

[Colleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written and I really enjoyed reading about the different people in this book. I learned all kinds of tidbits about so many things. As I wanted to know more regarding certain people I Just wished I didn't have to google everything I wanted to know more about. I received this book free in exchange for a honest review.

[Christine Schultz · Rating 4 out of 5]

The readers' interest is piqued in this exploration of curious characters from Wisconsin and they are left to explore the stories further. The conveyance of research through a lively writing style makes it a fun, quick read. This makes a great coffee table conversation piece.

[Quinn · Rating 5 out of 5]

A short but good read on the early residents of Wisconsin who shaped the state. Each biography is two pages so you can pick up anytime. References are given of you feel you would like to delve more into that person’s story.

[Carolyn Page · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very entertaining vignettes of historical characters. Well-researched and very readable! Excellent for those who like to read just a little at a time.

[Wendy Hellwig · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoyed reading this!

[Kris · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun book of interesting Wisconsin characters.