Maine 101: Everything You Wanted to Know About Maine and Were Going to Ask Anyway

by Nancy Griffin

From Popham Colony and Massachusetts outpost to statehood and lumber capital of the world, to profiles of the mighty lobster, the Maine Moose, Stephen King, the Wyeth clan, Fly Rod Crosby, and Baxter’s great gift, no book is more comprehensive than Maine 101. No book is more fun! Well known Mainers weigh in on their favorite things about Maine. Adventurer Steve Callahan gives us five ocean adventures you shouldn't miss, Dave Mallett tell us his five favorite Maine show business moments, world renowned author Tess Gerritsen tells us her favorite fry joints, author Chris Fahy gives us his five favorite nonfiction books about our state, poet Betsy Sholl tells us her five favorite expressions that define Maine to her. From politics and weather to the origins behind place names, Maine slang, and the Native Americans . . . it is all here! Whether you are a lifelong resident or visiting for the first time, there’s no more complete book about Maine. If you love Maine, you'll love Maine 101.

252 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[Goose · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are interested in the state of Maine, Maine 101 is a good place to start. Maine history, weather, politics, famous crimes, and more presented in an easy to read and digest, almost website format. As someone born and raised in The County, I still found much of this book a welcome surprise. However, as with many Maine books, the primary parts of Maine represented are Southern Maine and Coastal Maine. Some Northern & Western Maine folks might find themselves under represented. I was surprised that the Crime and Punishment section made no mention of Jim Cullen's crime or his lynching in Mapleton Maine in 1873. One would think that a crime that has spawned poems, stories, and even a whole book, They Lynched Jim Cullen by Dena Lynn Winslow, would deserve a mention in a book about Maine.

People primary interested in the coast of Maine might give this en extra half star to a star. Those interested primarily in Northern Maine might want to eliminate a star.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent source of information on my favorite state! It covered a wide variety of subjects but in quick bits so it wasn't boring or overwhelming. If you wanted more information on a subject they covered they provided websites to explore. If you love Maine as I do, this book is a great introduction to the state, it's history and future.

[Matthew · Rating 2 out of 5]

Basically a bound copy of Wikipedia

Basically a listing of tidbits that you would find on Wikipedia. I did find some of the regional terms interesting; but information like most populous city and highest mountain were not as important.

[JoAnn Plante · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was full of tips, inside information, and fun facts about the state of Maine. I enjoy visiting that state every chance I get and now I have a new perspective on some of the places and towns. This book is a combination of history, facts, interviews, and just plan factual information. It's a quick, easy read. I would recommend this book to anyone, who wants to learn more about the state of Maine.

[Don Gubler · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very comprehensive and informative.