cover image Hugh Morton's North Carolina

Hugh Morton's North Carolina

Hugh Morton. University of North Carolina Press, $36.95 (224pp) ISBN 978-0-8078-2832-8

A bit like the Forrest Gump of North Carolina, Morton has apparently managed to be present at almost all of the most important events in the state's history. (It's understandable, considering he's one of the region's top photojournalists.) This volume is a lush compendium of his best photographs, many published before, and many drawn from his personal collection. The fruits of Morton's 60-year career are divided into distinct sections--Scenes, People and Events, and Sports--but by far the most impressive collection is of his nature shots, which speak of a visceral appreciation for the land and of an instinct for gorgeous framing. The latter two sections have more of a prosaic, journalistic feel. But they still fascinate as historical documents, with candid shots of everyone from musician Benny Goodman to newsman David Brinkley. A more lyrical writing style might have served as better accompaniment to such a distinguished career as Morton's. In both the introduction and the captions, the prose is a bit plodding. The images speak for themselves, however, appealing to those with an abiding love for the state, and even to those beyond its borders.