Learned that I'm probably not a big fan of mysteries. And this one seemed to go on for too long. Interesting main character; plot was a little convoluted for me.

Spotty. Enjoyed the places he wrote about his developing love for books and how they became his best friends on his lifelong travels. Learned that there is actually a significant difference between a hobo and a tramp. Who knew?

The places where he editorialized about various subjects took much away from the reading experience.

What a refreshing read. Kinney completely captures what life is like for many kids in junior high -- at least for the male variety. Insecurities, changing friendships, family dynamics and presents it like a Looney Tones animation; it's probably just as enjoyable for pre-teens as it is for adults.

Uneven. There were times when the writing grew tiring and other times when it painted incredible scenes and feelings. The jumping around from past to present was sometimes difficult to follow.

Amazing book! If this had been a high school history text, I might have become a history major.

One interview I read with Bryson said he only wanted to write a book about Babe Ruth, since Bryson's a big baseball fan. When he discovered that the Lindberg flight was the same summer as Ruth's homerun record, he decided to include both events.

But then how could he leave out prohibition, Sacco and Vanzetti, Al Capone, "talking" pictures and so much more? Clearly, the man stumbling on a goldmine in his research. Very readable; hard to put down.