1001 Things Everyone Should Know About the South

An irreverent, idiosyncratic, and information-filled catalog of all things Southern--the people, places, history, traditions, foods, and foibles that fascinate Americans both north and south of the Mason-Dixon line.

The Confederate States. The Cotton Kingdom. The Sahara of the Bozart. The bible Belt. However it is defined, the South is the most intriguing--and misunderstood--region of the country. It's not surprising: Where else can such diverse cultural icons as Robert E. Lee, Martin Luther King, Jr., and Moon Pie be found in one place?

In 1001 short, eminently readable essays, authors John and Dale Reed illuminate every nook and cranny of this fertile land and culture, clarifying with an authoritative but humorous touch what everyone should know about. Interspersed with their incisive entries on history, politics, life, and literature, is a whole mess of fun facts such as what state has the best barbecue, where kudzu originally came from, why chivalry is so important to Southern males, and the origins of bluegrass music. So if you want to know the difference between a bubba, a good ol' boy, a redneck, a whelp (Tennesseean), and a sandlapper (South Carolinian), you're sure to find it in 1001 Things Everyone Should Know About The South.

"A writer this funny is definitely dangerous."--Raleigh News and Observer

"John Reed knows his region intimately, probably as well as anyone around, and manages the impressive feat of regarding it both seriously and lightly."--Jonathan Yardley, The Washington Post