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Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
In Letters from Mr. J B Fact Finder: A Weekly Letter on History Trivia by Joe W. Boyd, the titular Mr. Fact Finder taps into facts through a letter format. He explores a wide range of topics, from historical figures like Levi Strauss and Milton S. Hershey to the origins of products such as Bic pens and Oreo cookies. He covers pivotal events like the completion of the transcontinental railroad and the Great Depression's impact on industries. Additionally, he discusses cultural phenomena like "The Sound of Music" and "The Wizard of Oz" and American traditions and holidays such as Valentine's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. He shares nuggets of facts about notable individuals like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, as well as entertaining trivia spanning odd laws, burial practices, classical music composers, horse racing, and toys, offering a comprehensive exploration of diverse subjects and historical milestones.
Joe W. Boyd uses an accessible creative approach to conveying facts in Letters from Mr. J B Fact Finder, which helps break down the topics into bite-sized pieces. Boyd employs a straightforward conversational writing style, making it easy for readers to understand the information presented. Some of the references may seem outdated to contemporary youth with inclusions like "Gone with the Wind" and the space dog Laika likely to draw warranted scrutiny, but there is no doubt that the book will evoke some good nostalgia for those of us “of a certain age.” Out of all the topics covered, the historical insight into the American company Kodak emerged as a standout to me as memories resurfaced of dropping rolls of film off at the drug store to be developed. I also remember Kodak stores, which elicited a laugh between myself and my sister. Overall, Boyd provides a well-written, thoughtful, and fun little romp through time. Recommended.