Our Florida: Heritage of the Sunshine State in Stories and Photos Book

Our Florida is a fabulous collection of writing and photography that celebrates Florida's history, variety of people, and culture. Stories range from reflections on the state's natural wonders to pieces that honor Florida's multicultural heritage.

Contributors represent the best of Florida writing: Carl Hiaasen and Marjory Stoneman Douglas on the Everglades, Dave Barry on Disney World, Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, Zora Neale Hurston, the world of old-time "Crackers," Jose Yglesias on the Cuban-immigrant cigar factories, John McPhee on oranges, Jeff Ripple on Florida's natural wonders, and more.

The comprehensive artwork perfectly matches the mood of the written selections. Illustrating the breadth of Florida culture, it includes historical photographs of cigar factories; a panoramic of a 1920s bathing beauties swimsuit contest; Seminole Indians; highly collectible fruit labels and cigar labels from the 1930s; 1950s tourist kitsch; Audubon prints of flamingos; 1920s tourist promotion posters; funky old postcards; and more.

Florida has 14 million residents, and approximately 47 million visitors each year; it's the second most visited tourist destination in the U.S.

Also recommended: Miami, Florida: The Natural Wonders, The Florida Keys, and Sanibel Island.