Finding the American Dream: A Guided Tour of Places Where Americans Changed History

Book excerpt: From a can of Dr. Pepper, to the iconic sounds of Motown hits like Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, and The Temptations, each of these uniquely American emblems began as a dream. From humble beginnings and against insurmountable odds, our culture pervasively clings to the notion that given equal opportunities, anyone can achieve the success of their wildest imagination. It’s the dream that has empowered countless entertainers, leaders, inventors, and historical figures to become and create to the best of their ability, and that still inspires us today. Travel journalist and author Bill Clevlen opens up the topic in Finding the American Dream, chapter by chapter, one dreamer at a time. Be guided to the place were they began their journey, as if you were traveling there yourself. Stand inside the small rural house were Johnny Cash grew up after the Great Depression. Explore the bottling plant where Dr. Pepper became America’s first nationally sold soft drink. Discover the very first Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant where 65 year-old Harland Sanders started a billion-dollar franchise. A flip through these pages will prove that the American Dream is not dead. The inspiring stories contained within demonstrate that anyone can still achieve greatness through hard work, determination, and of course, a little bit of luck.