Archaeological Oddities

Reviews / Votes

Archaeologist and author Kenneth L. Feder has written several books about ancient sites and, in this book, takes on forty places that have interesting but strange stories that stretch credulity. He tells the story of the place, how it was discovered, what artifacts were found and in what condition and circumstances, who was involved and what their motive might have been to create the find, why there is skepticism, and how to find and visit the site now. Since he is a highly educated archaeologist, Feder is able to debunk this stories handily. He is an accomplished writer with a lively writing style and a wonderful sense of humor exemplified by the 'Fake-o-meter' included in many of the chapters. Wonderful photographs support the writing and help to make this an absolutely fascinating book. Don't miss this one. * Tulsa Book Review * Feder has written the indispensable travel guide to the most colorful blind-alleys and wacky dead-ends of North American archaeology. He knows the territory like nobody else, and he's passionate about the subject with a delightful sense of humor. And along the way, you'll learn a lot about real archaeology too. Buckle up and enjoy the ride. -- Brad Lepper, Senior Curator of Archaeology, Ohio History Connection Ken Feder is an indefatigable archaeological traveler, blessed with insatiable curiosity. He takes us on an entertaining, at times funny, and always well informed excursion to forty archaeological sites where you can experience the often zany site of North American archaeology first hand. This nicely written, well illustrated book takes us on a delicious archaeological journey through a sumptuous array of oddities. It's a delight. -- Brian Fagan, emeritus professor of anthropology, University of California, Santa Barbara Feder's humorous commentary and honest presentation of facts make this a fun and informative read. Probably the best way to plan a unique trip to an unusual place in search of hidden messages, lost civilizations, and ancient aliens. -- Sara Head, host of Archaeology Fantasies Feder's latest is a fascinating field guide to America's imaginary past from an expert archaeological traveler who combines deep knowledge, a wicked sense of humor, and a thoughtful perspective on the many ways Americans envision ancient times. -- Jason Colavito, author of The Cult of Alien Gods: H.P. Lovecraft and Extraterrestrial Pop Culture Feder's excellent Archaeological Oddities is an oddity itself: an exhaustive guide to the spookiest archaeological sites in North America that provides real evidence. Readers who want the facts, dig in. Highly recommended. -- Jeb J. Card, assistant teaching professor, department of anthropology, Miami University