New Libertyland Book Now Available!
Note: signed copies of Libertyland: Images of Modern America are no longer available for purchase online, but select Memphis-area bookstores (listed below) still have signed copies in stock.
About the Book
Nestled in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, the Libertyland theme park debuted on America’s bicentennial: July 4, 1976. The quaint park celebrated America’s history, heritage, and culture. Not only was it home to Elvis Presley’s favorite roller coaster, Libertyland also offered guests rides on the historic Grand Carousel, exciting shows, gift shops selling handcrafted souvenirs, delicious food, and much more. The park’s themed areas–Colonial Land, Frontier Land, and Turn-of-the-Century Land–paid tribute to some of the country’s most historically significant eras. From its opening in 1976 until its closure in late 2005, Libertyland was a first roller coaster ride, a first date, a family reunion, a summer job, or simply a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the real world.
Libertyland: Images of Modern America author John R. Stevenson V
Images of Modern America: Libertyland is a chronological look at the theme park’s life, from blueprints to its razing and beyond. Photographs were gathered from former park employees, guests, historians, Memphis-area libraries, and the Shelby County Archives. Born and raised in Memphis, author John R. Stevenson V rode his first roller coaster at Libertyland and considers his childhood days spent at the park unforgettable. This book is not only a tribute to Libertyland’s legacy, but also a history lesson for generations of Memphians to come.
Where to Buy in Memphis
Support Memphis business by purchasing the book in store! Libertyland: Images of Modern America is available at the following retailers:
Novel
387 Perkins Extd.
Memphis, TN 38117
(901) 922-5526
Tiger Bookstore
3533 Walker Ave.
Memphis, TN 38111
(901) 324-2808
Burke’s Books
936 Cooper St.
Memphis, TN 38104
(901) 278-7484
South Main Book Juggler
548 S Main St.
Memphis, TN 38103
(901) 249-5370
Barnes & Noble – Wolfchase Galleria
2774 N Germantown Pkwy.
Memphis, TN 38133
(901) 386-2468
Barnes & Noble – Carriage Crossing
Collierville, TN 38017
(901) 853-3264
Barnes & Noble – The Mall at Barnes Crossing
1001 Barnes Crossing Road, #104
Tupelo, MS 38804
(662) 791-7828
Are we missing anyone? Let us know!
In the News
Aug. 30, 2017 – “What a Ride ‘Images of Modern America: Libertyland’ debuts September 25th” (Memphis Magazine)
Sep. 15, 2017 – “Remembering Elvis Presley’s Favorite Theme Park in New Book – Libertyland” (Theme Park University)
Sep. 21, 2017 – “Q&A With John Stevenson, Author of Libertyland: Images of Modern America” (Coaster101.com)
Sep. 26, 2017 – “Book promises to help you relive Libertyland” (WMC Action News 5)
Sep. 26, 2017 – “New book relives the memories of Libertyland” (WREG News Channel 3 – Live at 9)
Dec. 11, 2017 – “Libertyland Book Review” (Imaginerding.com)
Dec. 12, 2017 – “Book Review: Images of Modern America: Libertyland” (CoasterCritic)
Libertyland Podcast
Listen to author John Stevenson talk all things Libertyland on the amazing Memphis Type History podcast!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long did it take to write the book?
From proposal to printing took around nine months.
How long is the book?
Libertyland: Images of Modern America is 96 pages long.
Why did you write a book about Libertyland?
I wrote a book about Libertyland, because the park holds a special place in my park. It was one of the first amusement parks I visited, and it undoubtedly fueled my love and passion for roller coasters and the amusement industry.
I also think it’s an important chapter in Memphis’ history. The park was significant not only to the city but the amusement industry — it was the country’s first “miniature theme park” and helped influence the construction of similarly sized regional parks across the country.
Can I host a book signing? Can I review your book for my website, publication, etc.?