I, like many Americans, am enamored with the idea of a log cabin in the mountains, hot cup of tea in my hand, wrapped in a cardigan. But how did we get to this point of "cabin chic"? How did the log cabin, once looked down upon as the dwelling of poor people and vagrants, become a giant symbol of American patriotism and pioneering? Andrew Belonsky's book traces the history of the log cabin from the first English settlers in Jamestown (who, in fact, did not introduce the log cabin to America; that would be the Finns and the Scots-Irish) to the campaign-boosting origin stories of hopeful presidents, to the Disney-fied theme park attractions, and finally to the fashionable aesthetic we see today. It was certainly very interesting to examine the history of America through the history of a structure, and I learned quite a bit while reading this book (the historical pictures throughout helped). He even managed to end on a hopeful (and self-admittedly schmaltzy) note about the resiliency of America - much like the log cabins that still stand today.

My only complaint is that sometimes the modern, trendy speak Belonsky peppers in (#haters, natch, etc.) is jarring, and not really necessary. But that did not take away my enjoyment of reading this book! ( )

Well researched, excellent photographs and illustrations, the details and facts behind the history of log cabins and legendary log cabin lore. Written with a sense of humor. Very detailed! ( )