Under the Radar Michigan

Starred review from February 1, 2015

When describing the TV series UTR (Under the Radar) for non-Michiganders, it's tempting to call it a cross between Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, and, given the PBS connection, Rick Steves, but that's not seeing it for the singular cultural expression it both captures and embodies. Celebrating, by air-date chronology, the first 50 episodes, UTR isn't worried about details (unless they're essential to the plot), such as lodging, directions, or hours of operation, but instead blips in and out of "the mitten" two to three cities or regions per episode, uncovering cool spots people should know about. Distilleries, galleries, skate/bike shops, bakeries, cider mills, wineries, landmarks, restaurants, quirky festivals and curiosities are breezed upon from "Ypsi" to "da UP," revealing, if nothing less, that Michiganders have always gone local and were hipsters before it was a thing. VERDICT A beautifully illustrated and organized (commendably cross-indexed, too) guide to culture and personalities purely Michigan. While less enhanced than its televised counterpart, it's no less vital and valuable; even lacking the audio/visual it still seems to capture the voice and tone of the people and places. This work of love is a welcome addition to travel collections, especially with many larger publishers covering fewer cities, regions, and states. Michigan libraries (and neighbors) need to invest in both print and DVDs. Reads like a backyard hangout.--Benjamin Malczewski, Toledo-Lucas Cty. P.L.

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