Looking for America on the New Jersey Turnpike – Virtual Author Talk

One of the quintessential things that defines New Jersey is the Jersey Turnpike. It is the life-line that connects North and South Jersey and provides major access to New York City and Newark International Airport. Rest stops on the turnpike pay tribute to famous New Jerseyans who have shaped all aspects of American life.  Please join us as Michael Rockland explores the history and iconography of the Jersey Turnpike by discussing his book Looking for America on the New Jersey Turnpike as well as the many changes that have taken place since it’s publication in 1989.

Michael Aaron Rockland is professor of American Studies Emeritus at Rutgers University. His early career was in the U.S. diplomatic service, during which he was a cultural attaché in both Argentina and Spain . He is the author of sixteen books, five of which have received special recognition and prizes. His first book, Sarmiento’s Travels in the United States in 1847, was chosen by The Washington Post’s Book World as one of the “Fifty Best Books of the Year.”  A book he co-wrote, Looking for America on the New Jersey Turnpike, was chosen by the New Jersey State Library as one of the “Ten Best Books Ever Written on New Jersey or by a New Jerseyan.” Rockland has won seven major teaching/lecturing awards, including the National Teaching Award in American Studies. He has lectured in some twenty-three countries around the world. A regular contributor to New Jersey Monthly magazine, he has also worked in television and film production, mostly for PBS.

This is presented by the New Jersey State Library. Click here to register for this virtual talk.