Land of Sunshine, State of Dreams: A Social History of Modern Florida (Florida History and Culture)

"Land of Sunshine, State of Dreams" is a sympathetic and engaging biography of Florida and her people in the 20th century. As the author reminds us many times, geography is not destiny. The Florida of today-- a paradise of sandy beaches and cartoon characters brought to life, an inferno of racial tensions, drug trafficking and endless urban sprawl-- none of this Florida was inevitable.Mormino's account is loosely organized into thematic chapters. A chapter addressing technology discusses how innovations like DDT, air conditioning, the interstate and trailer parks rendered the tropical dream accessible to every class of American after WWII. Also, did you know that Lee County once offered itself up to the U.S. government as a base for the "atomic bombing of hurricanes"? "The Beach" recounts how far-seeing developers wrested Miami Beach from mangrove swamps and crocodiles, and black "swim-ins" sought to liberate public beaches from Jim Crow. We learn that "massive overbuilding and overspeculation resulted in a real estate collapse" in 1974. Some things never change.Florida is amazing and aggravating all at once, and rather than railing against the state's many problems this book traces the processes that created them. Reading it is a bit like therapy for a transplant like myself."Land of Dreams" was published in 2005, at the height of the housing bubble, so unfortunately it does not address the devastating impact of the Great Recession upon the state. The Trayvon Martin case will also change Florida forever. Mr. Mormino, it is high time for an updated edition-- or perhaps even a sequel.

At 459 pages, this book distinguishes itself from others I have read on Florida history because it goes well beyond superficial treatment of the subject. Despite its length, it's a very comfortable read; not at all like a textbook. I literally couldn't put it down from the time I downloaded it to Kindle. There are photos, charts, and maps, although I would have welcomed even more of them than are included. There's a greater focus on the 19th and 20th centuries than more remote periods, which is just fine with me.One of the most welcome features of Mormino and Arsenault's work is the balance they strike between Florida's strengths and weaknesses. I've been disappointed by other books on Florida history that have a decidedly (and for some, even overwhelmingly) negative view of the state. In "Land of Sunshine, State of Dreams..." the authors take the position of true historians: comprehensive research, well-organized presentation of the facts (with references provided), and leaving the reader to draw his or her own conclusions.I did find a number of typographical errors in the Kindle version - mostly the use of "S" instead of "$" or "5", and letters instead of numbers, which were at times distracting. If not for this one issue, I would have given the book 5 stars.For anyone who's interested in a complete yet entertaining presentation of Florida history, I highly recommend this book. Of the several Florida history books I've read this year, this is by far the best.

It is about the modern sunshine state.

A relatively new Florida resident of 8 years, I have been intrigued with the state since my first vacation to Daytona Beach in the 1950's. This is where I wanted to retire - my husband did retire, and loves the easy, warm days of golfing, swimming and hobbies. I am still working, so I see a different side of Florida than he does. Interested in learning more about how this unique peninsula of sand became such a traffic jam, I chose this book, and it did not disappoint me. Informative, entertaining, and eye-opening!

Even though the book at times has a slightly academic feel to it, the author has been able to make it enjoyable reading, and a page-turner. Had been meaning to read this for a while. Glad I finally did.

Gary Mormino is definitely an expert on Florida! In person he is very interesting and a great speaker. His book, though chock full of information, is a slog to read---fact after fact after fact. While the information is potentially fascinating it is not written in a way that is very readable. I gave it 3 stars because it is an excellent source of information about how Florida became what it is today. I only wish it was more readable.

Being a Florida snowbird, I have always wanted to understand the nuances of the state and its inhabitants - seasonal and native. It was a great read; well researched and the author has added personal trivia as well as pertinent facts. Enjoyed this book and would recommend.

Having come late to Florida I have been delving into its history. I found this social history to be very useful in understanding the state's development. It kept me curious to learn more and not overwhelmed by dry facts.

Those of you who see Florida only as a tourist destination will think different after this valuable read. Highly recommended for anybody wishing to understand Florida's big influence in today's U.S.