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Southern California Story
Michele Zack
Author & Historian









Winner of national awards

American Association for State and Local History Leadership in History Award of Merit; this is the nation’s most prestigious competition for recognition of achievement in state and local history

American Design Award

"In Southern California Story: Seeking the Better Life in Sierra Madre,
Michele Zack again delivers urban history at its best. As with Altadena, she pays her subject the tribute of extensive research and lively narrative. Whether it be people, politics, water, the environment, or social and racial issues, Zack places Sierra Madre’s story in a regional and national context—so that this history encompasses the range and richness of Southern California for those seeking a better life.
Here is a regional history that offers us real insight into American life."
Dr. Kevin Starr, author of the California Dream series

"Magnificently illustrated with photographs, maps, and works of art, this book will please all who love Southern California and its environment. Michele Zack, local historian, fills her history of Sierra Madre with fascinating information while also showing how it relates to larger historical developments." Daniel Walker Howe, 2008 Pulitzer Prize-winning author of What Hath God Wrought: The Transformation of America, 1815-1848.

Save shipping costs and purchase our award-winning SMHPS book locally:

Lizzie's Trail Inn Sierra Madre Public Library Vroman's (Hastings Ranch & Pasadena)

Arnold's Hardware Bean Town






Past Sierra Madre Historical Preservation Society Newsletters

The Rescent Past:

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