Great Americans: Famous Names, Real People

by K.K. Ottesen

From an inspired project - to document the lives of ordinary Americans with extraordinary names - emerges a fascinating composite portrait of our country. Did you know Elvis Presley lives - and works... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1582342962
• ISBN13: 9781582342962
• Release Date: July 2003
• Publisher: Bloomsbury USA
• Length: 180 Pages
• Weight: 1.70 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 9.3" x 9.3"

Customer Reviews

Celebrates the greatness in ordinary people

American is probably the only country in the world that has so much faith, and so much respect, on the greatness of the common folks. This book is a testimony to that faith and respect. The book depicts 47 Americans who happen to share the same name as some of the famous figures in American history and pop culture. These people, in their own language, talked about who they are, where they came from, their hopes and fears. A few expressed their views on politics and the direction the country is going. Each shared his/her core belief, and reflection on what it means to be American. What amazes me is that the core belief of all these people can be summed up in 4 words: Be your own person. This is quintessentially American. Another great feature of this book is that these people came in all racial and ethnic groups, all shapes and sizes. The author and her team have obviously gone the extra miles to mirror the mosaic of the American population. I am tremendously moved by the quiet dignity, optimism, and courage of these people to make a better tomorrow for themselves and the people around them. It is because these qualities in everyday Americans that foreigners like me still believe in the idea of America. This book is tremendous.

Poignant, Funny, Well Written, and Beautifully Photographed

This book was given to me as a gift, and I thought it was something I'd just keep on my living room table and flip through every so often. But once I started reading it, I was enthralled. The photographs are stunning, and KK Ottesen's descriptions of these fascinating people and her trip across the country to find them is truly captivating. I've since bought several more books for friends, and they've all expressed to me how much they love this book.

An upscale coffee table book - with depth and character

*****Ms. Ottesen has performed a great deed. With minimal distortion, she has painted a picture of America that is both truthful and reflective. The authenticity of her subjects comes through loud and clear as you hear their words in the first person. I suppose this is the sort of book that lends itself to reading a piece at a time. I wish you luck; I couldn't put it down.

Fascinating & Stunning Trip of the US

"Great Americans" is a visual and intellectual hit!The photographs are beautiful, gracefully capturing the spirit and tone of each "famous" person. The landscapes are equally stunning and help give a setting for the characters.The real words taken from one-on-one interviews with these 51 individuals are simple, thoughtful, straight forward, provocative, humorous and poignant. Each story is unique and fascinating. There are many memorable moments!Ms. Ottesen's anecdotes about her visits are equally fascinating, presenting a different perspective into the person's life.I highly recommend this book -- read a few pages before bedtime; put it on your coffee table and glance at the photos; keep the inspiring stories in your mind.