Dr. Larry P. Arnn, President, Hillsdale College, Hillsdale, MI: "Your goal to understand modern learning and culture in the context of the ancients is noble indeed. … I was especially pleased to see that you cite Plato's Republic in Learning. Perhaps you would be interested in reading his Meno, a lesser-known dialogue in which he offers an intriguing theory of learning. Your account and his seem to share many important tenets. Thank you for your diligence. Your books offer a great testament to your love for truth. I wish you every success."
Grady Harp, Hall of Fame Top 100 Reviewer San Francisco Review of Books: Five of five stars! (Quotes from a full page review): Culture and the mysterious agent changing it: “The aging mind tampers with memory, shrouding elements of yesterday to alter perception, spins moments recalling now outdated themes and traditions and names that once were the commonality of being alive. In this superb book Gary Wietgrefe explores this phenomenon scientifically and philosophically…. In a most intelligent manner, suffused with wry wit, Gary walks us through the realm of ancient culture as it is warped by our lack of memory and respect for same. He glibly poses questions… ‘Can you and your friends make copper? What? You can’t. If not, you and your friends are dumber than a caveman. People in the Stone Age were smelting copper…. Fascination with technological gadgets has replaced intellectual pursuit.’ Moments such as this flow from the author’s mind and greet us, glancing at the ground in embarrassment, only to encourage us to rethink everything we know. Family, Money, Religion, Conflict, Riddles such as… ‘I am contained, but free, yet cost more each year. What am I?’ This is the platform used to share the author’s own history in a manner that makes ours relatable. ‘Society’s mental capacity has dwindled. The trend has been going on for hundreds of year and is escalating. Fascination with technological gadgets has replaced intellectual pursuit.’ Moments such as this flow from the author’s mind and greet us, glancing at the ground in embarrassment, only to encourage us to rethink everything we know. This is one of the most satisfying reading experiences around – take advantage of retrospection to put the world in perspective and become enriched! Very highly recommended.” Grady Harp, October 19, 2019 reviewed Kindle Edition: “Culture and the mysterious agent changing it.
Donna W., Austin, Texas: “Hi! I am reading your book ‘Destination North Pole’ and having a hard time putting it down but want the enjoyment of reading it the next day.”
JS, Sioux Falls, SD: “We received Dakota Country Poems two days ago and immediately read it all. You are a literary genius, indeed. Your insights, in verse, are remarkable along with the appropriate photos from the past also gave insight to the years gone by….we enjoyed it immensely!”
Grady Harp, Hall of Fame (currently) Top 50 Reviewer: Five of five stars! “Age is not a limiting factor…’ Welcome encouragement for seniors” Destination North Pole: “When a person of the depth of experience of Gary W Wietgrefe takes on a challenge/task/adventure as the one so well described in this ‘travelogue/memoir,’ the invitation to join him is strong. His ability to relate the impact of his trek is magnetic…. In addition to this fascinating diary of a journey, Gary adds moments of wisdom and insight that enhance the joy of reading his travelogue. ‘An idea is like light, if turned off you cannot return what you have seen’ and ‘Thinking is a step, but a step takes you toward your goal’ and ‘You cannot use what you forgot’ – all related to his preparation for this adventure, but also applicable to healthy mindsets for us all. There are many benefits from absorbing this adventure with the author. In addition to the actual journey, the author offers a fine series of questions posed about the his decision to embark on his carefully planned North Pole trek, questions that offer practical as well as philosophical aspects. Every day of his journey includes the journal of times of departure and arrival, number of kilometers, calories – daily and total to date - and ‘daily dangers /excitement.’ Accompanying Gary on his goal is an enriching experience, not only for the wonders he exposes, but also for the challenges he offers – an aperitif for launching our own adventure! Entertaining and inspiring, especially for seniors, this is a book rich in content and encouragement. Highly recommended.” Grady Harp, October 20, 2020.
DM, SD (former teacher & coach): “I read both your books (Culture and the mysterious agent changing it, and Learning as it influences the 21st century) including the all the footnotes. I agree with every word. …You know who the two best teachers are? Parents.”
U.S. Senator John Thune, Assistant Senate Majority Leader: (handwritten personal note) Culture and the mysterious agent changing it and Learning as it influences the 21st century: “Gary, thanks so much for the letter and books. You have been very busy these past few years. Thank you for continuing to make a difference. Keep challenging the establishment.”
Peter Anthony Holder, (The Stuph Files Program), Montreal, Canada broadcaster: “Gary, as I mentioned to you when we chatted, there are so many things we could talk about. You’re probably the most overachieving person I’ve come in contact with, so I really look forward to having the chance to talk to you again about your varied accomplishments.”
Joel Stratte-McClure, travelogue author of Idiot and the Odyssey series, Redding, California: commenting on Destination North Pole: "That was fun — and instructive. My favorite lines: 'Urinating drivers are conspicuous' …and... 'Never trust a driver to give accurate elevation, distance or road conditions if they had never biked (or walked) long distance.' Technique: Nice starting each chapter with a blog entry and stats for those of us attentive to such detail. Thanks, bike on, stay in touch and ever onward, Joel."
Jim Woster, writer, broadcaster, public speaker, Sioux Falls, SD: "You are a very good writer, regardless of the topic." Destination North Pole: “Wonderful read. Wow! A lesson in so many things, not the least of which is human endurance and enduring love. Quite a lady you are married to! By the way, your end of the ride episode with the wolfdog was truly frightening as I read it!” Jim later wrote about my predictions: “You are right about the unexpected connection between your Learning and Culture books and the Pandemic.”
Urban Book Reviews: Review: Dakota Country Poems – Urban Book Reviews (wordpress.com): Rating: 5-stars Review:
Dakota Country Poems by G.W. Wietgrefe is a beautiful collection of wonderful narrative poems. Each poem tells a different story. The words are clear, concise, and vivid. I especially love the one labeled, Dad’s Desk. It reminded me of my own father’s passing just recently. To this day, I have no idea what my father thought nor why he thought things differently. Like the father in the poem, my own father died alone with no one around him during his last breaths. My other favorite poem in this book was Hills Above. Dakota Country Poems sparks emotions both new and old in readers as they associate the tales and words with whatever comes to mind while reading them. I highly enjoyed this small yet so beautifully woven collection. Poetry is good for the soul. https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5855929764
Connections E-Magazine, October 2023 issue page 96 presented a full-page feature of Dakota Country Poems. See https://view.publitas.com/mpsmith-publishing/connections-emagazine-3rd-quarter-2023/page/96-97
Author Anthony Avina: The Review Dakota Country Poems: This was a heartfelt and captivating read. The author does a remarkable job of creating a calming and easy-going vibe throughout many of his poems, touching upon the memories and experiences of his life and allowing the sometimes fun, sometimes sad, but always memorable moments to shine brightly on the page. The use of rhyme in these poems utilized the simplicity of the art form to bring to life some heartfelt lessons on life and those who live within it. One poem that spoke to me personally was Badger, which utilized the life and experiences of the animal to help illustrate the need to reach out to those who isolate themselves from society and ask themselves if it is isolation through choice or a form of self-sabotage through loneliness. The Verdict: Heartfelt, gripping, and thoughtfully written, author G.W. Wietgrefe’s “Dakota Country Poems” is a must-read poetry collection. The heart and passion for which the author writes these poems and the balance of lighthearted fun with care and essential themes make this a compelling collection not to be missed. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today! Rating: 10/10 https://authoranthonyavinablog.com/2023/09/29/dakota-country-poems-by-g-w-wietgrefe-review/?fbclid=IwAR1AMx2vpEJAYEzeAqUwcW_L3b9-FN4NkM0wZejunhYm-zRUQOLDdI-AcIU
Joy C., Alabama: After ordering four latest books from website: “I am looking forward to reading about your experiences! I’ve only dreamed of doing what you’ve done! I’m sure they will be inspiring reads.”
Adele K, Wetaskiwin, Alberta, Canada: “Gary, I want you to know that I bought and downloaded your book Destination North Pole through Amazon. It was finally available though Amazon.ca. Thoroughly enjoyed it and couldn’t put it down. It’s amazing what you accomplished and the remarkable recovery from your adventure. Wishing you much success on this book.”
Scribble’s Worth Book Reviews 9.4 of 10.0, Cover 7.5 of 10: “Destination: North Pole – 5000 Km by Bicycle” by Gary W. Wietgrefe – Scribble's Worth Book Reviews (wordpress.com). “Here we have a book with an interesting premise: A 65 year old man, goes on a crazy journey from Pierre, US , to the freaking NORTH POLE! With a bike! No, no, not a motorcycle, a BICYCLE! And here’s the best part of it: this isn’t fiction. It’s a travelogue. YES! That is right, this book is about the journey of Gary W. Wietgrefe written by he himself, as he bicycled his way from the USA to the North Pole, on a 10 year old bicycle, in 40 FREAKING DAYS! He wrote it all, he catalogued it all and now, in this book he lets us know the adventures, in humorous detail, that he had while pushing his way to one of the poles of the Earth, enduring the harshness of weather, without distractions, no music, no earphones, no laptop, just he himself, his supplies – with his lovely wife as back support team- and nature and it’s grace and dangers on the way, along some dangerous and speeding drivers. How AMAZING IS that? This is something that 25 year-old daredevils would never think about doing, and if they did, it would be waaay too extreme for them, but here we have a 65 year old man, doing it like a boss, without safety nets, without guarantees, back-ups, guns or anything like it, facing a 5000 Kilometre journey, against the wilderness and risking his life at every spin of the wheel! Welcome to “ Destination: North Pole – 5000 Km by Bicycle ” by Gary W. Wietgrefe, this is its review. From the introduction, we get a clear idea of the narrative of the author, finding it pleasing and enticing enough to make the readers wonder and imagine things for themselves, although there are pictures on the book, and give the reader the sense of adventure that one would get in a fantasy book, so, by the end of it, we are pretty relaxed and confident that this will be a good read and a valuable one indeed. Another thing that enticed us from the first page, or the title page is the corniness of the bicycle graphic that is always present on the title pages. A stick figure on a stick bicycle that looks like it was drawn by a pre-schooler. This little detail is cool because we get, instantly that there will be humor to the book, playful humor, and that the book was made purposefully light and fun for the reader, which tells us that the writer clearly cares for his readers and their reading experience, which is always a good sign. Right in the beginning, you get inspiration for your dreams and ideas. Not that this is an inspirational book, far from it, but the way Gary W. Wietgrefe speaks about the holding this goal in mind, year after year and making small steps towards it, even when he had a corporate job, is inspiring, and the fact that he decided to do it shortly after retirement, is even more inspiring. Gary W. Wietgrefe talks with a casual determination about cycling to Alaska, making plans along the years and preparing everything although it seems like a far-fetched possibility, yet, he kept on, even after all the risks and dangers considered. THAT’S what we need! Amazing, simply amazing. In his trip, the author takes time to explain how little towns work, their costumes and how to better deal with local establishments and the reasons behind such claims, which makes lots of sense once you give it some thought, the history of the places he crossed like dams, rivers, forts, how they related to the history and development of the populations and the history of the US. Small and interesting bits of information taken from here and from there and laid across in a casual way that not only educates, but entertains us, and once again inspire us to explore the vastness of the countries and world that we have. In his experiences, very well detailed and shown Gary W. Wietgrefe recalls how his family and friends supported him, the surprises on the road with some other cyclists and the problem of lots of roadkill, caused by drivers that don’t pay attention to the road, and don’t respect the limits and regulations of speed while not accounting for the wild environment they are in, which is sad once you think about it as there is a lack of training for people that actually are allowed to drive cars in the US. There is a constant reminder to live in the present, in the moment, and many analogies are made, questions are asked, very good questions are asked to the reader about the future and its nature of ever possible unrealized potential, questions that grow with the contrast and explanations of how cycling allows one to actually see things, to have time to actually see things and not just zoom past things and not even notice, as it happens on a car trip. It’s a great way of thinking, it’s something that we need to do more, to live in the now, in the present, enjoy the moments of now and realized them everyday. To actually do things and not simply dream of them and keep dreaming as the future “becomes” present, and we don’t even realize it because we are always looking ahead instead of around. Nice. “I rode without listening to radio or music. On our city’s bike trail it was not unusual to see bicyclists wearing headsets. Some music was so loud I could hear it. Those over-stimulated, some addicted to electronic impulses, cannot appreciate nature’s subtleties. It remains elusive.” Gary W. Wietgrefe. And maybe this is a key factor of why the current population is destroying nature and wildlife, because we cannot take time to appreciate it. Something to think about indeed. We have GOLD MINES of wisdom throughout the book such as: “Growing up with electronic stimulation, rationalization seemed to divorce those born in the 21st century from reality. Instantaneous digital snippets are mind-boggling. Ever-present smartphone impulses beg attention. Young ears and eyes have become shock absorbers. What is learned? Sadly, yesterday’s reality, history, culture, tradition, and nature lays hidden—anticipating another incongruous snippet. Gadgets occupy time. Being at work does not get work done, nor does access to knowledge make one wise. That is as foolish as saying the bicycle in the garage kept me in shape.“ Gary W. Wietgrefe. The emphasis on the peculiarities of language, accent, culture of the small communities, their history, their food, and their people, many of them natives to the land, others coming from distant cultures, and the distinct focus on the German-Russian lineage dominated on the Dakota and Akaska regions are intriguing, inviting and show a respect for the communities, while the author shows the differences of the past and present generations and how this dynamics affect the sheer survival of the communities themselves. The bakeries and how they are “the hearts” of these small towns, how we should give extra support for them when we are travelling around and appreciating their distinct generational secrets, is something enlightening and touches a chord on our hearts that we didn’t know we had. It brings compassion, passion and understanding, it fuels a need for us to contribute in every way we can to keep these little-big treasures alive. It’s SPLENDID. This is WAAAAY more than a book about a senior man that bicycled his way to the ever-moving North-Pole, but it’s a book about culture, the re-alignment of modern society with nature, the appreciation of living in the present and actually enjoying the scarce, little moments in life, and above all, to go for our dreams, no matter what age. LOVED IT! Those who love adventure, travel, adrenaline, culture, science, history and books based on real facts and accomplishments, look no further than this absolute gem that is totally underrated, because this book, along-side with the feat of the author are nothing short of Legendary! This is a heck of a read that will inspire you to live your life now. Epic!”
Dennis Ragland, Rapid City, SD: “Finished Destination North Pole in a few days and it is excellent. Could not put it down. Well written and captivating. I highly recommend it to anyone who is an adventurer or just one at heart.”
Dawn, Queretaro, Mexico: “…People, listen up......if you haven't read the book (Destination North Pole)....read it. It is well written, thoroughly enjoyable, and a fun way to enjoy a trip through western Canada in your armchair. The joy and love of this couple travelling together, enjoying a trip of a lifetime is worth every minute of your time with this book. Loved, loved loved the book. Once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down! Thanks for a great read Gary!”
BM, British Columbia, Canada: (email advising others to order Learning as it influences the 21st century) “Hope you get a copy from Amazon & find it an interesting read. I certainly did!”
Art & Lisa, Guatemala: “I (Lisa) cannot tell you how much I enjoyed reading Destination North Pole. I could picture you two through the whole book. I have enjoyed a chapter or two at a time. I, then, would either recount or read those portions to Art. Art and I both do our exercises in our offices every day. Your book was very inspirational to keep moving and set those physical objectives.”
Wayne, La Penita, Mexico: (Explains memories evoked from sights and daily stops mentioned Destination North Pole:) “I used to drive from Calgary to Regina about 3 times per year and as I was driving through southern Alberta I would try to imagine what it must have been like with the huge herds of buffalo roaming the prairies. One other comment--as I would drive along the Trans-Canada I would marvel at the large number of small prairie towns that were disappearing. I was once talking to an old railroader (this would be in the 60's) and he stated--the prairie towns were planned by the CPR (railroad) every 10 miles as that was the distance you drive in one day with a team of horses and a wagon. Every town had a grain elevator.
”Gary has reached North Pole--but he was almost done in by a dog on the last day. I enjoyed the book, it was interesting that you used no electronic devices, ear buds, etc. --I don't think there is a member of the younger generation--30 and under that could have done that (survived without constantly texting or without music blasting into their ear). All of which would have distracted from the peacefulness of your surroundings and the enjoyment of nature and the trip.”
Jasmine, Alberta, Canada: “It takes a lot of determination to write a book (Destination North Pole)...but you did that amazing bike trip which is another kind of determination!! Soooo...that is a double whammy!!! IMPRESSIVE! Congrats to you!”
(Name withheld for privacy), Greensboro, NC: "I truly agree with the technology comments and agree with Einstein's quote: 'I fear the day that technology will surpass our human interaction. The world will have a generation of idiots.' I feel we are getting close."
Pastor Jack Graham, PowerPoint Ministries, Plano, TX: “Thanks for your books. Quite thought provoking!” Learning as it influences the 21st century and Culture and the mysterious agent changing it.
DB, La Penita de Jaltemba, Mexico: "Gary, I am done (with) first book (Culture and the mysterious agent changing it). I couldn't put it down. I LOVED IT!!! ...I have so many sticky notes in it, I am going to reread it again after I am done with the one on Ancient Learning."
AL, American originally from Brazil: “I'm loving Destination North Pole! I generally have several books that I read at the same time depending on how I'm feeling and I just can't wait for night to come, when I get to read it. It's like I'm traveling with you. I love the history on the way and I can imagine the places you were going through.”
JT, Mobridge, SD, school teacher/principal’s wife: Learning as it influences the 21st century and Culture and the mysterious agent changing it: “I have gotten your books from Amazon…. I have enjoyed reading what I have read so far. It is nice to be prompted to think about how things were and are. My 50-year reunion was in 2015…the later reunions get to be more fun all the time.”
Michael Hyde, Fiction Author, Pierre, SD: (A few days after purchase) “I’ve made it though three chapters of Relating to Ancient Culture thus far. A good read during my downtime.”
KK, Georgia: (Learning as it influences the 21st century) “… very attention getting. I really liked the zinger about giving children responsibility when they graduate college being two decades too late. Due to my father's death when I was age 5 and ensuing financial circumstances, I had probably held at least two dozen jobs before I entered college...and I feel very fortunate for those experiences. I worry about my grandchildren who enjoy scouting and gymnastics but have zero exposure to entrepreneurship.”
KT, La Penita de Jaltemba, Mexico: "Enjoying your book." (Learning as it influences the 21st century)
TruthForLife.org: “We pray you will be able to touch many lives with your books.” Learning as it influences the 21st century and Culture and the mysterious agent changing it.
DK, Rincon Guayabitos, Mexico: "We all enjoyed your talk and were very impressed with your books. Congratulations on your achievements! We were honored to have been able to hear about your processes and research on how your books came to be." Learning as it influences the 21st century and Culture and the mysterious agent changing it.
LMC, Pierre, SD: "I have been reading "Culture". ...Nice to see these ideas in print! Maybe others will see the light. Well written. Good job."
Robert, Morristown, New Jersey (business executive): "Your books look great! Very intriguing and your background is amazing." Learning as it influences the 21st century and Culture and the mysterious agent changing it.
Dick H (former co-worker): “I just finished your book about your North Pole bike trip. Wow. Quite the undertaking. Good for you and book was a good read.”
Steve, Lewisville, North Carolina: "You have generated some good reading and ideas." Learning as it influences the 21st century and Culture and the mysterious agent changing it.
LL, Kailua, Hawaii: "Wow! Very Impressive. You've been a busy man. We'd like to propose a book signing here in Kailua. We have a book store."
Agneta, Vancouver, BC, Canada (Author): "As a writer and life-long learner, I am intrigued by the subjects in 'Relating to Ancient Culture' and 'Related to Ancient Learning.' I've read the synopses and will certainly grab both books on their release. There is so much we can learn from the past. We can begin with Gary's two new books."
B & N, Brainerd, Minnesota: (before publication) "It was such a pleasure meeting you at _____ this summer. We...made some very different choices for our family.... We wanted to let you know that we are very interested in getting your books when available."
Dominique, Sioux Falls, South Dakota: "Thank you for the book titles. Sounds extremely interesting."
Boswell, Gabriola Island, British Columbia, Canada (world traveller, author & businessman): "...(From) the initial information about your latest two books, I must compliment you on both the subject matter and the choice of pictures for the book covers. They effectively speak volumes in capturing the essences of what is timely, relevant, interesting and certainly provocative. As we witness society and trends unfold, it is important to understand from whence we came. In doing so, we may better understand the link between the past, present and inevitably the future. As a seafaring Captain once said, "...If you wish to know where you are heading, you must first look back at the ships wake, and from that you will understand where you are going". You appear to have done that very effectively. I recall our past conversations, when you spoke of the material that you were developing for these books. My compliments to you, as you seem to have achieved your goal, in what appears to be a very interesting read. I look forward to getting the finished texts and recommend them to all who want better insight as to why we are at this juncture in our human history. Just as an afterthought...Ancient culture is just that...something that is in the past.... History can only be interpreted or looked at differently, not changed.... ...I am sure both will be very interesting reads."
(name withheld for privacy), Ipswich, SD: (Feb. 21, 2018) "...your talk was interesting. Thought provoking."
Rob, Colorado Springs, Colorado: "As a U.S. Army veteran, having served at the end of Vietnam and subsequently peace time rising in the ranks from Private to Sergeant, I find it interesting to see the different ways different cultures and ethnicities learn and teach. I am looking forward to reading Relating to Ancient Culture and the mysterious agent changing it. ...We learn basically by repetition or by our mistakes. Makes one think."
Jenessa, Yankton, South Dakota: "I am excited to learn more about your books! They sound intriguing."
Carmen, Fort Pierre, South Dakota: "As a person who takes a great interest in preserving local culture and heritage, I'm very intrigued to discover Gary's observations from his many travels. Looking forward to reading both of Gary's books. His insights into the comparisons, both positive and negative in ways people live and the characteristics that influence their culture and the advancement of their ways of life, will be very fascinating!"
Dee, Sioux Falls, South Dakota: "As a retired daycare manager and people person, I am very interested in this author's views and findings about Ancient Learning. To read his findings in his new books would be a delight."
Barb, Oshkosh, Wisconsin (retired Special Education Instructor): "Mr. Wietgrefe indulges in his mid-century upbringing to bring a relationship perspective to the continuance of ancient cultures and how they affect us today and in future centuries. P.S. Your book covers are intriguingly beautiful." Learning as it influences the 21st century and Culture and the mysterious agent changing it.
JK, Rogue River, Oregon: "Having grown up in the 40s and 50s, I still have a strong love and appreciation for old things, old culture, primitives, antiques and more importantly old family ways and traditions and how families taught and raised their children preparing them for the time when they left home and on their own. I am interested in reading these books about old cultures and learning....and what and why things are sadly changing with our young people in today's society. I look forward to reading these books in hard cover and having them signed. Books are part of my treasures." Relating to Ancient series.
Dan, Pierre, South Dakota: "Thanks for letting me read your rough manuscript of "Culture". I found your book very interesting and thought provoking on the changes to our culture. I'm interested in both...hardcovers. Please be sure to autograph before you send them."
Robert, Calgary, Alberta, Canada: "Having always enjoyed our thoughtful conversations, I look forward to reading Gary's organized and thought provoking contributions to the discussions of learning and culture. While many of us think of the questions, few take the time to offer insights and reasoned opinions."
Larry, Sioux Falls, South Dakota: "As a retired mathematics teacher of 45 1/2 years, I find the summary of your books to be intriguing in today's culture.... I look forward to reading both books. One can never learn too much." Learning as it influences the 21st century and Culture and the mysterious agent changing it.