The Turtle, The Mitten, and An Epic History of Michigan: Part History, Part Travel, Part Adventure — And 100% Pure Michigan

by Aaron Helman

Part History, Part Travel, Part Adventure—And 100% Pure Michigan

From vanished towns and famous battles to forgotten beaches and backroad legends, The Turtle, The Mitten, and An Epic History of Michigan takes readers on a captivating journey through the people, places, and moments that shaped the Great Lakes State.

This isn't your typical textbook history. It's a road-ready companion — perfect for travelers, history lovers, lifelong Michiganders, and curious newcomers alike.

You’ll

The lost town of Singapore, buried beneath Lake Michigan sand dunes

The Union Pier Nudist Club, where Chicago writers helped reshape literature

The intersection at Phillips Corners, where Michigan and Ohio went to war

The lumber towns, auto plants, and battlefields that defined a nation

Along the way, you’ll visit charming lakeside destinations, ancient forests, and the gritty heart of Detroit — the most American city there ever was.

Whether you’re planning your next Michigan road trip or rediscovering the stories of home, this book offers a smart, surprising, and unforgettable adventure through one of America’s most fascinating states.

Aaron Helman is a historian, storyteller, and podcaster whose books bring local legends and overlooked history to life. His previous works include Ride the Jack Rabbit and An Incomplete History of St. Joseph County, Indiana.

258 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 22, 2025

Reviews

[Adarae Rempel · Rating 5 out of 5]

So well written!! I learned so much about my home state, and laughed so much along the way! BRB, going to go share this book with my fam.

[Cindy Walker · Rating 3 out of 5]

page 188: Michilimackinac translates to "Big Turtle" .. the native people were
referring to Mackinac Island, not the Lower Peninsula. the LP is the Mitten.

also, the beginning of the book talks about Gen. George Custer, but there was no mention of Ft. Custer training grounds or Ft. Custer National Cemetery in Augusta/Battle Creek. both are kind of a big deal to the state and nation.

sorry to be critical, but those two facts bothered me.

I enjoyed the writing style of the author & his wit, and it was like he was a friend talking about the bike ride along the way.

[Christy Mcfadden · Rating 4 out of 5]

I bought this book at Snowbound books in Marquette. I share a love for book stores and coffee shops (and ice cream) like the author. Great read with a lot of great historical info and funny wit throughout. Creative way of learning history via a bike ride. I feel like the next one should be all about women in Michigan’s history!

[Patrick Tarbox · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a beginner to Michigan history and culture, I definitely enjoyed it, but there is also a saltiness and critical eye to this where if you are looking for Michigan red meat, this might not be for you. It was fun though!

[Hannah Davidhizar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting, entertaining, & warming. Great awareness of who really lived in Michigan first. Not me Google all the ice cream, beer, and sunset references to add to my bucket list.

[John Bagley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lot of fun ... whether you are from The Mitten or not. Interesting facts in this trip around the Lower Peninsula.