Punxsutawney Phil and other Strange American Traditions

In this episode, Hailee explains the quirky and beloved tradition of Groundhog Day in America, from origins in ancient beliefs to a quaint local observance to a nationally recognized phenomenon. We will also explore a few other quirky American traditions, including the Presidential turkey pardon and a unique form of communication in the rural south. 

All books shared in this episode can be purchased at our Bookshop! 

Staff picks:

• Big by Vashti Harrison
• There Was a Party for Langston by Jason Reynolds, illustrated by Jerome and Jeremy Pumphries

Recommended reading

Non-Fiction 

• Weird U.S.: Your Travel Guide to America's Local Legends and Best Kept Secrets by Mark Moran and Mark Sceurman

Fiction

• Opposite of Always by Justin A. Reynolds
• The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton
• Neverworld Wake by Marisha Pessl

Sources:

• Groundhog Was Once on Punxsutawney’s Menu
• The Curious (and Possibly Murderous) Origins of Punxsutawney Phil's Name
• The bizarre history of Groundhog Day
• The Surprising History Behind Groundhog Day
• Pardoning the Thanksgiving Turkey
• Hollerin’ History
• “The Lost Art of Hollerin’”
• The Rise and Fall of North Carolina’s National Hollerin’ Contest