This week’s tour takes us to Grand Rapids, Michigan, more specifically East Grand Rapids (I couldn’t find much of a distinction pictorially, but I’m sure that those who live there know the difference) and to Holland, Michigan. My inspiration comes from reading a cute YA book called I Now Pronounce You Someone Else by Erin McCahan. Here’s a little about the book:

Eighteen-year-old Bronwen Oliver has a secret: She’s really Phoebe, the lost daughter of the loving Lilywhite family. That’s the only way to explain her image-obsessed mother; a kind but distant stepfather; and a brother with a small personality complex. Bronwen knows she must have been switched at birth, and she can’t wait to get away from her “family” for good.

Then she meets Jared Sondervan. He’s sweet, funny, everything she wants — and he has the family Bronwen has always wanted too. She falls head over heels in love, and when he proposes marriage, she joyfully accepts. But is Jared truly what she needs? And if he’s not, she has to ask: What would Phoebe Lilywhite do?

I’ve picked some photos that show the different aspects of the area, from the urban jungle to an actual shot of rapids, the beach and a windmill and tulips in Holland, MI, which has obviously got strong roots from the real Holland. Then there is John Collins Park, which is a big part of the story, as well as the brief mention of the Gerald Ford Museum, which is a bone of contention with some of the characters. I have left out the grisly winter pictures that come along with living in this area though, lol.

It looks to me like Michigan isn’t just all about Detroit and car manufacturers. What do you think? Does it look like a place worthy of a visit? I’d love to hear your thoughts 🙂

About Jackie

Jackie is a quirky mom, living in Ontario, Canada. She's a bookkeeper by day and a book lover by night. She also blogs at The Novel Nation and writes occasionally for Heroes and Heartbreakers.

• View all posts by Jackie →
• Blog
• Twitter
• Facebook