Whether you’re a born-and-raised Alaskan, a recent transplant, or just passing through, Alaska Curiosities will have you laughing out loud as B. B. Mackenzie takes you on a rollicking tour of the strangest sides of the Last Frontier State. Catch a glimpse of the ghost ship Clara Nevada, lost in a storm in 1898 while carrying a cargo of gold from the Klondike. Watch a baseball game on the longest day of the year in Fairbanks. Witness the Running of the Reindeer down 4th Avenue in Anchorage—held annually in March.

The Alaska Homesteader’s Handbook is a remarkable compilation of practical information for living in one of the most impractical and inhostpitable landscapes in the United States. More than forty pioneer types ranging from their mid-nineties to mid-twenties describe their reasons for choosing to live their lives on Alaska and offer useful instructions and advice that made that life more livable. Whether it’s how to live among bears, build an outhouse, cross a river, or make birch syrup, each story gives readers a window to a life most will never know but many still dream about. Dozens of photographs and more than 100 line drawings illustrate the real-life experiences of Alaska settlers such as 1930s New Deal colonists, demobilized military who stayed after World War II, dream seekers from the ’60s and ’70s, and myriad others who staked their claim in Alaska.

An Alaska family celebrates Hanukkah with a stubborn moose in their backyard and the Northern Lights as the best-ever menorah. Hanukkah in Alaska is unlike anywhere else. Snow piles up over the windows. Daylight is only five hours long. And one girl finds a moose camped out in her backyard, right near her favorite blue swing. She tries everything to lure it away: apples, carrots, even cookies. But it just keeps eating more tree! It's not until the last night of Hanukkah that a familiar Jewish holiday tradition provides the perfect—and surprising—solution.

The stunning wilds of Alaska are not for the faint of heart—but when Beth Rivers finds herself with a need to disappear, she’s already faced far worse. So how hard could it be? Beth Rivers, known to the world as Elizabeth Fairchild, has spent years as a bestselling novelist. Her twisty, page-turning thrillers have garnered a legion of fans, but unfortunately, her story-telling landed her in an unbelievable tale of her own—a situation even more terrifying than she could have dreamed. Crazed Elizabeth Fairchild super-fan Levi Brooks stalked and kidnapped Elizabeth, holding her captive inside a van for three days. She escaped by throwing herself from the speeding van, suffering a severe head injury and memory loss. Scarred and still healing from her injuries, she secretly escapes to the beautiful—and very remote—Benedict, Alaska. It’s the only place she can be sure no one will find her. But just before Beth’s arrival, the already small population of Benedict was reduced by one. Linda Rafferty’s death was ruled a suicide, but no one in the close-knit community quite believes that conclusion, even the sheriff. While she waits for her attacker to be apprehended in the lower 48, Beth takes on a project to revamp the Benedict town newspaper. She knows enough to go where the story is, and there’s clearly one behind Linda’s death. As rumors of murder spread, suspicion falls upon the felons staying at a local halfway house—and Beth herself. Intrigued by both the mystery and the wary folks who call Benedict home, Beth starts asking questions—only to find her investigation stirring up memories she’d much rather had stayed forgotten...

In "The New Eldorado: A Summer Journey to Alaska" by Maturin M. Ballou, readers are taken on an insightful exploration of the Alaskan frontier. Through engaging and vivid descriptions, Ballou presents a comprehensive account of the landscapes, cultures, and experiences he encounters during his journey, making this book a valuable historical and travelogue piece. Written in a descriptive and engaging style, the book captures the essence of the Alaskan wilderness and its inhabitants, offering readers a glimpse into a world filled with beauty and challenges. Set within the context of the late 19th century, this book sheds light on the allure of Alaska during the Gold Rush era. This literary work is a captivating blend of travel writing, historical documentation, and personal reflection, making it an essential read for those interested in the history of the American West. Maturin M. Ballou's extensive travel experience and keen eye for detail are evident in his evocative writing, making him a respected and knowledgeable voice on the subject of Alaska. As a seasoned travel writer and journalist, Ballou's genuine passion for exploration and discovery shines through in this book, offering readers a unique perspective on the Alaskan frontier. I highly recommend "The New Eldorado: A Summer Journey to Alaska" to those seeking a captivating blend of history, travel, and adventure in the Last Frontier.