This book is the sequel to the popular How the States Got Their Shapes, which went state by state in order to define how their various borders came about. I thought that was really interesting and was excited to learn that the writer had opted to do a sequel. This volume is done in much the same style with each chapter focusing on various people who had a major influence on the shapes of the states. These include the famous Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon to the lesser well-known Roger Williams, who founded Rhode Island and Representative Eleanor Holmes Norton, who attempted tirelessly to win statehood for the District of Columbia.

One of the things I enjoyed so much about both books was the strong use of maps and a great narrative writing style that was relaxed while also being informative. The personalities involved are brought to life with Stein's words. In a way, it is hard to put the book down since each chapter runs between 3 and 6 pages.

If you liked the first book or just like American history, this is a must read.