Book Reviews

Finding the Fountain of Youth
– Tampa Bay Magazine, July/August 2013

“In this book, Rick Kilby shares his collection of images of Florida and all things relating to Ponce de León and the Fountain of Youth, as he relates a compelling story about the Sunshine State and the Waters that flow through and around it.”



Finding the Fountain of Youth
– Real South Magazine, July/August 2013

“There’s no doubt Kilby understands the graphic appeal of kitsch, but also that it can be strangely beautiful and enlightening. What’s obvious is the power of marketing and promotion in creating the nation’s perspective of Florida. Even Kilby’s own narrative is short and snappy and enticing, like good brochure copy.” 



Ponce — the pitchman
Book explores adventurer’s mythic persona
– Florida Weekly, July 7/17/13

“SOMEHOW, SOMEWAY, IT’S ALL THERE IN one slim volume: Florida’s spring-fed myths and fables, history and geology, hucksterism and development, vintage photos and posters, loving and baleful looks at the past and worrisome glances into the future.”
Read the entire review here.

Author wants us to rediscover protect Floridas fountains of youth   
– Floridaenvironments.com, 7/12/13
“Finding the Fountain of Youth” will help Florida’s visitors and residents alike see another side to Florida’s springs — perhaps overly kitschy at times — and their need for protection.”
Read the entire review here.



Orlandoan finds fountain of youth in Florida’s magical waters
Orlando Sentinel, 6/05/13

“I enjoy the names given to objects folks collect: Disney fans gather Disneyana; aficionados of old Florida seek Floridiana. A few years ago, Orlando graphic designer Rick Kilby found himself on a search for “Poncebilia”—images of Ponce de León, the Spanish explorer who gave Florida its name 500 years ago.”
Read the entire review here.



Book Notes
– The Florida Historical Quarterly, published by the Florida Historical Society
Volume 92, Summer 2013, Number 1

"In addition to being a good read and a compelling tale, Finding the Fountain of Youth is a rare gem in that it is also visually stunning. Kilby has compiled an impressive collection related to this topic that included historic photographs, advertisements, travel brochures, postcards, maps, and signs."

Listen to an audio review from WGCU in Southwest Florida here.



Finding the Fountain of Youth: Ponce de León and Florida's Magical Waters
– Society for Commercial Archeology Journal, Fall 2013, Volume 31, No. 2

"This is what makes Finding the Fountain of Youth so meaningful– Kilby's awareness and attention to the issues threatening Florida's waters. This book articulates how the Sunshine State fashioned itself as a land of fantasy and rejuvenation–based largely on the powerful enticements of a fabled Fountain of Youth."


Finding the Fountain of Youth: Ponce de León and Florida's Magical Waters
– Florida Book Review (reviewed by Marci Calabretta)

"Packed with mermaids, ancient springs, strange stone crosses, springs, and lions, Finding the Fountain of Youth is perfect for anyone who has not explored the 'tourist traps' and is interested in both the history and mythic attractions of the Sunshine State. Every page is filled with fun facts, vintage flavor, and colorful photographs of the state boasting 'perpetual rejuvenation.' Whether or not you call Florida your home, you will find something magical about the waters rippling through these pages." Read the entire review here.

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