Route 66 in Arizona
Arizona Travel Guide reviews the book Route 66 in Arizona by Joe Sonderman, covering the route from New Mexico through Winslow, Winona, Flagstaff, and Kingsman.
When I was a kid growing up in England, the first mention I ever heard of Route 66 was when the Rolling Stones made it the first track on their first album. The lyrics were drilled into my brain, especially this bit:
Flagstaff, Arizona, don’t forget Winona
Kingman, Barstow, San Bernardino…
Who could have known that years later I would marry an American woman and we’d end up living in southern Arizona. Route 66 goes across the north of Arizona, but these place names which in the song sound almost mythical to young English ears, turned out to be real towns, many of which I’ve now visited.
Route 66 in Arizona
How great, then, to come across a book specifically aboute Route 66 in Arizona! Joe Sonderman’s Route 66 in Arizona is a captivating and meticulously researched tribute to the iconic stretch of the Mother Road that winds through the Grand Canyon State. As part of the Images of America series, the book is a visual and historical journey that combines archival photographs with engaging storytelling, offering readers a vivid glimpse into the heyday of Route 66 and its enduring legacy in Arizona.
Author of Route 66 in Arizona
Sonderman, a respected Route 66 historian, brings his deep knowledge and passion for the subject to this work, making it an essential read for road trip enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone fascinated by Americana… and Arizona.
The book is structured as a photographic history, with each image accompanied by detailed captions that provide context and anecdotes. This format allows readers to visually experience the evolution of Route 66 in Arizona, from its early days as a dusty wagon trail to its transformation into a bustling highway that connected small towns and fueled the dreams of travelers. Sonderman’s narrative is both informative and nostalgic, capturing the spirit of an era when Route 66 was the lifeblood of communities and a symbol of freedom and adventure.
Route 66 in Arizona: Strengths
One of the book’s strengths is its focus on the unique character of Arizona’s portion of Route 66. Sonderman highlights iconic landmarks such as the Wigwam Motels in Holbrook and the quirky town of Oatman, where wild burros still roam the streets. He also delves into lesser-known but equally fascinating sites, like the Hackberry General Store and the Twin Arrows trading post, which have become symbols of the road’s enduring charm.
Through these stories, Sonderman paints a vivid picture of the people, businesses, and landscapes that defined Arizona’s Route 66, offering a sense of place that is both intimate and expansive.
Economic Impact of Route 66 in Arizona
The book also explores the cultural and economic impact of Route 66 on Arizona. Sonderman discusses how the highway brought prosperity to small towns, enabling the growth of motels, diners, and gas stations that catered to the needs of travelers.
At the same time, he doesn’t shy away from the challenges faced by these communities as the interstate system eventually bypassed Route 66, leading to its decline. This nuanced portrayal adds depth to the narrative, reminding readers that Route 66 is not just a road but a living history of American resilience and reinvention.
Appeal of the Book
Sonderman’s writing is accessible and engaging, making the book appealing to both casual readers and serious historians. His passion for Route 66 shines through on every page, and his attention to detail ensures that even those familiar with the road will discover new insights. The photographs, many of which are rare or previously unpublished, are a highlight of the book, offering a visual time capsule that transports readers to a bygone era.
Buying Route 66 in Arizona
You can find Route 66 in Arizona on Amazon.
Buying Route 66 in Arizona
You can find Route 66 in Arizona on Amazon.
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