“Nevada is the American West’s state of contradictions. . . .John M. Glionna embraces these contradictions. . . . [His] writing is entertaining, humorous, and respectful. Most importantly, he discredits a misconception of rural Nevada.”
—Michelle Follette Turk, Western Historical Quarterly
"Glionna masterfully weaves historical anecdotes and rich descriptions of the terrain with residents’ unique dialects, reminding readers that, in storytelling, it’s all in the details. . . . Glionna carefully tends to both the sentences and the people [the stories] showcase, making for a funny, informative, and memorable statewide road trip."
—Brittany Bronson, Los Angeles Review of Books
“I dare you to stop reading a John Glionna story. I know I couldn’t. Every time I hop on board . . . I know I am in for a smart, informative and highly entertaining ride. It’s impossible not to take the journey to the end. His work is a real treat!”
—Michael Connelly, The New York Times best-selling author of crime fiction
“[Glionna’s] deep reporting and lucid explanatory writing evokes the McPhee school, but he tends to sprinkle his meat and potatoes with a kind of cosmic Flamin’ Hot Cheeto dust from the crinkled bag of his subconscious. Enjoy the burn. And wash hands thoroughly after contact.”
—Richard Fausset, The New York Times Atlanta bureau chief
“This collection is a vivid tapestry of human stories, representing twenty-first-century rural life in a state known for its eccentricity. John Glionna has made a career of portraying rural Nevadans, and the essays collected here are masterful glimpses into the realities of the region’s diverse residents. . . . the author presents them with precise details, enthusiasm, and a sense of humor.”
—Scott Slovic, University Distinguished Professor of Environmental Humanities, University of Idaho, and author of twenty-seven books, including Going Away to Think: Engagement, Retreat, and Ecocritical Responsibility
“Glionna brings life to unique and sometimes almost absurd characters, introducing a side of Nevada few may know exist.”
—Roberta L. Moore, park ranger, Great Basin National Park (retired); editor of Wild Nevada: Testimonies on Behalf of the Desert; author, artist, and activist