In this part detective story, part history lesson...readers gain insight into the adventures of a real-life treasure hunter; Raab's exploits will remind readers of Indiana Jones or Benjamin Gates of the National Treasure film series. They'll be amazed by the artifacts Raab comes across, including many that have been passed down from generation to generation ... With several chill-inducing moments combined with engaging writing, this book will hold readers' interest until the last page. May be of particular interest to fans of Antiques Roadshow or American Pickers.
Though Raab is an avid history buff with a wide range of expertise, he sometimes oversimplifies American history for the reader, as his admiration for American presidents leads him to gloss over many of their well-known misdeeds. Nevertheless, his book is a fascinating glimpse at the day-to-day operations of an unusual profession, and Raab’s exploits will delight lovers of history like himself.
... a delightful account ... As skilled in satisfying readers as clients, Raab knows how to tell a story, chronicling how descendants of great historical figures invite him to their homes and reveal treasures ... Though the anecdotes are unconnected, they are unfailingly entertaining.
Rare documents dealer Raab relates the stories behind his greatest finds in his brisk and entertaining debut ... The anecdotes share a similar structure, and they all serve to burnish Raab’s reputation. His genuine love of history radiates from the page, however, and readers will root for people like Robert Johnson, who saved a piece of Amelia Earhart memorabilia from the trash pile. The result is a thoughtful tribute to the art and business of collecting history.
