Have you ever wondered what ordinary people went through during important times in our history? Would you like to know the thoughts of the Lenape Indians, the Quakers, or the Irish immigrants? Can you imagine the problems during Washington's encampment at Valley Forge, the Civil War, the Underground Railroad, the two World Wars, the flu epidemic, the Vietnam war, the rebellious Sixties? Follow the people and their dreams during very different times in the town of Norristown and the U.S.

Olympians, soldiers and abolitionists have all hailed from the bustling shores of Norristown, Pennsylvania. Beginning as a modest seventeenth-century settlement along the "hidden river," it became an industrial boomtown and attracted waves of immigrants to its forges, railways and mills. Local journalist Stan Huskey brings together lively vignettes and fascinating firsthand accounts to introduce such characters as Union general Winfield S. Hancock, hero of Gettysburg, and baseball greats Tommy Lasorda and Mike Piazza. From tales of calamitous train wrecks to the bygone era of streetcars, Huskey brings readers back to the glow of the hometown lights.

The Olympian Leap: The Life and Legacy of Josh Culbreath is a moving tribute to an immensely talented, world-renowned athlete. His name struck apprehension in the hearts of all his opponents. His sly grin and infectious smile let his competitors know he would kick butt. Josh was a gifted athlete in high school, and they proclaimed him the country's second-top high school hurdler in the country. Described as the "Martin Luther King of athletics", he was a fierce opponent who was humble in victory and gracious in defeat. Kudos to Olympic gold medalist Dr. Edwin Moses, who wrote the Foreword for this book. Dr. Edwin Moses stated in his foreword that Josh Culbreath was one of his "true heroes... and mentors" in his hurdling career. Cynthia Culbreath brings him to life in a gripping sports biography of her cousin's history, leaving no detail untold. Segregated events of his era shaped who he became during his lifetime, and their pasts converged in one explosive moment. Let us remember Josh as someone who overcame tremendous obstacles and triumphed in the life of track and field. This book tells how he won the Olympics, overcame challenges, and covers his distinguished career as an American hero. His story can be called the "Olympian Leap" because his jumping ability was second to none, and he broke world records, which led him to gain immense prestige. Only after you finish reading his story will you understand why people are stunned by his achievements. Please read this book and see what it feels like to soar higher than any other human being ever has.