Backroads of Paradise - by Cathy Salustri (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

In the 1930s, the Federal Writers' Project paid Stetson Kennedy and Zora Neale Hurston, along with other lesser-known writers, to create driving tours of Florida. The FWP and the State of Florida jointly published the results as Florida: A Guide to the Southernmost State. In Backroads of Paradise, Cathy Salustri retraces the routes these writers traveled, bringing a modern eye to the historic tours.

Review Quotes

"This book will remind you why Florida is considered paradise, just in case you had forgotten."--Tampa Bay Magazine

"[Salustri] delights in letting people know that to really discover Florida, you have to turn off the congested interstates and explore the state's towns and cities."--New York Times

"Across 5,000 miles of Florida back roads, Salustri shows readers the state's hidden gems, uncovering anything from sugar sand to working oyster boats. With Salustri, readers will gain an in-depth look at the Florida that isn't often seen in travel brochures."--Booklist

"Provides a perspective different from the theme park and beach images most commonly associated with Florida."--Library Journal

"Salustri's enthusiasm for Florida is evident and contagious. . . . You are sure to be intrigued, if not in love, by the time you finish."--Florida Book Review

"The ultimate Florida road-trip. . . . Anyone who shuns interstates for backroads in order to rediscover old Florida should rush to buy this lovely book!"--Tallahassee Democrat

About the Author

Cathy Salustri is the arts and entertainment editor at Creative Loafing Tampa and lives in Gulfport, Florida.