Mikel Classen talks about True Tales: The Forgotten History of the U.P.

Digging deep into the past, U.P. author & historian Mikel Classen uncovers hidden stories in his newest release “True Tales- The Forgotten History of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.”

Stories of piracy, lost gold mines, the origin of the Copper Boom, profiles of people of note, Starvation on Isle Royale, and one of the darkest periods of Michigan history, are all True Tales of the early days of the Upper Peninsula Frontier.

“Some subjects I’ve researched over the years as a journalist,” Classen said.

One story, in particular, captured Classen’s inquisitive mind and set him off on a wild chase across the rugged northern peninsula hunting down the truth to rectify myths. During his research, Classen visited the historical societies in 16 towns.

“The local communities and historians sometimes intentionally buried the stories,” Classen said.

In seven towns, he was able to confirm the unimaginable.

“I was shocked,” he said.

Find out what it was by listening to this intriguing episode with a true U.P. expert for a chance to win a signed copy of his “True Tales.”

Luck or Miracle

SKU 978-1-61599-777-0
$19.95
A World War II POW's Survival Story
1
Product Details
UPC: 978-1-61599-777-0
Brand: Modern History Press
Binding: Paperback
Audiobook: Audible, iTunes
Edition: 1st
Author: Reginald Bollich and James Bollich
Pages: 122
Publication Date: 11/01/2024

"Courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it." - Nelson Mandela

Jim Bollich, a 102-year-old World War II soldier, offers a first-person account of courage, fortitude and the will to survive three years of frost-bitten captivity as a POW in Manchuria, enduring the Bataan Death March, thirst, starvation, diseases, a 32-day sea voyage (crammed into the hold of a Japanese hell ship) and aerial bombings. After liberation, the transport ship to take him home hit a mine and lost power. A violent typhoon ensued and he had to lash himself to a bulkhead above deck to survive.

Jim survived because he strengthened his mind to confront evil and overcome fear in the face of danger, beatings and pain. Daily prayer strengthened his will to live.

"The unselfish actions of James Bollich are perfect examples of how dedication and love of country are manifested and have kept our country free. His narrative shows how a humiliating defeat on the battlefield can turn one's life upside down and create untenable situations that force one to overcome some of the most horrific situations imaginable and to realize that only through Providence can one survive." -- Major General Bob "Hawk" Hollingsworth, USMC (Retired)

From Modern History Press

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