The Turtle, The Mitten, and An Epic History of Michigan

Author: Aaron Helman

Publisher: Independently Published

Paperback: 256 pages

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 explore:

• 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.