Almost all that a history book should be:
Well-written. Relevant. Told a lesser-known story. Filled with startling facts, memorable people, and some unanswered questions. Jaw-dropping.

It is a truly terrifying book--the story of the Dust Bowl from the perspective of those who lived through it. For some reason, I hadn't realized how Texas was affected by this natural disaster. As the land blew away, the people tried everything to stay. It was an environmental disaster--caused by man and some really bad luck. I was completely overwhelmed at times just thinking about the volume of dirt--someone on the phone, letting a town down the road know that a duster was on its way, but unable to see the phone. People caught in a duster that went blind. The lives lost to dust pneumonia.

Not an easy read, but well worth it. Highly recommended. Puts our current economy in perspective, as well as reiterate why our current focus on being "green" is a very good idea.