Inside The Berkshires: Sixteen Journeys of Discovery (Pathways to the Past) - Softcover

McLaughlin, David J.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0976350076 ISBN 13: 9780976350071

Publisher: Pentacle Pr, 2008

Synopsis

Inside the Berkshires is a unique full color guide to this historically rich and naturally beautiful region of Massachusetts. The book presents 16 journeys of discovery with over 500 full-color photographs. These journeys highlight historic, cultural, scenic and outdoor attractions in and around the region's 32 towns. They transport you into the heart and soul of the Berkshires.

About this title

About the Author

David J. McLaughlin is a well-traveled writer and photographer with an abiding interest in New England. He is the author of six other books including the 2007 publication The Unfoldeing History of the Berkshires, which won a bronze award as one of the best travel / history books of 2007 from the Independent Publisher's Association and has been called .a work of art.'

Review

LOCAL TRAVEL GUIDE BREAKS THE MOLD Shelving Inside the Berkshires near other travel guides does the book and its author a disservice. This is much more than a simple travel guide. There are no stale lists of star-rated accmodations, no restuarant lists with tiny dollar signs or fork-and-knife selections. That's all been done before. This hasn't. Not like this. Rather than telling readers where to stay or where to eat, David J. McLaughlin has chosen to draw interest to the county's cities and towns through his descriptions and photographs...he devotes pages upon pages to the well-know and the lesser-know sitess and attractions of the region. This isn't just for the out-of-towner. Locals, too, will be surprised to learn about some of these sites. I was pleased to find a few lesser-known gems nestled in the book's pages, such as Stevens Glen, Richmond Furnace and the Keystone Arches. And with so much to explore, from Alford Center Cemetery to Nathaniel Hawthorne's Little Red House, McLaughlin will keep me busy all summer. Of course, the old favorites are here in all thier glory as well: Hancock Shaker Village, the Norman Rockwell Museum, The Mount and others. The only real disappointment in reading this book came on page 328, when I realized the book was over. Of course this is not a fault, per se; rather its a nod of approval to the writer and his obvious depth of research. Simply stated, this is a shockingly beautiful, well-written book Most points of interest are listed with locations and, sometimes,dirctions. Many also have Web sites or telephone numbers to assist the reader in making travel arrangements. And at the end of each chapter is a listing of various resouces for more information. The people of the Berkshres take grat pride in the preservaiton of their towns, their history and their culture. And that's what makes a visit to or a residence in the area truly magical - amost like taking a step back in time. Inside the Berkshires is one of the most remarkiable and complete homages to the region captured in print. Even for those who know everything there is to know about the Berkshires, there is sure to be something surprising and new in this book. --The Berkshire Eagle, July 13, 2008. Review by Amy Norkus

NEW GUIDEBOOK COVERS ALL OF BERKSHIRE COUNTY A new full-color guide book to the Berkshires features over 300 pages of cultural venues,hidden treasures and historical markers for all 32 towns and cities that make up the county. [In an interview with the author, David J. McLaughlin] he explained that over the last three years he made extensive trips to the Berkshires, meeting with historical commissions, local residents and visiting what he calls 'hidden treasures.' 'One of our goals was to create a guidebook that would even appeal to people who have lived in the Berkshires their entire lives.' Besides including all the large cultural venues such as the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival, Tanglewood and the Francine and Sterling Clark Art Institute. McLaughlin strivbed to include smaller attractions such as the North Adams Museum of History and Science. the Windor History Museum and outdoor locations like Whitcomb Summit. 'I've found that in the Bershires if you take the occasional turn off the main road, you have a great adventure.' McLaughlin says. 'Sometimes people need to be nudged to form a game plan for the day' he said. 'We've organized the book so people can take excursions to a group of terrific places. For example, most visitors know about Hancock Shaker Village, but we've included information about a wonderful museum (The Shaker Museum & Library) across the border in Old Chatham, N.Y; and we describe and show images of the Shaker buildings that still exist at the Darrow School in Lebanon, N.Y.' --North Adams Transcript, June 13, 2008, by Jennifer Huberdeau

'This is a terrific book. I am off to the bookstore to buy another copy.' (Historical Commission Chairwoman) 'A splendid publication in every respect. The photos enhance the narrataive beautifully. We particularly enjoyed the context of the sixteen excusions grouped by areas and towns. You have enlightened even seasoned residents like us and enticed us to new discoveries with your book in hand.' (Long-term Berkshireresident) 'This hefty book is a real winner, a must for any Berkshire enthusiast.' (Visitor from West Coast) 'Stunning and very readable.' (College Professor) 'A wonderful addition to my Berkshires library. Packed with information and great images. Lots of fun to read.' (A Professional Photographer) 'I have already discovered a dozen things to see and do on my next trip.' New York Resident --Reader Commentary

About this edition

• Publisher: Pentacle Pr
• Publication date: 2008
• ISBN 10: 0976350076
• ISBN 13: 9780976350071
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 328