'The Golden Shore' is a captivating, enlightening book about the history, culture and allure of the California coast

Yes, California has some issues. The most populous state in the union has its critics. But as a new book, 'The Golden Shore," reminds us, the geographic wonder of its long coastline -- from San Diego to Crescent City -- is a marvel, the magnet that has attracted millions of people from all over the globe. David Helvarg's new publication is part history book, part travelogue, part environmental study and part love letter to one of the world's most beautiful places. My review for U-T San Diego: http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2013/feb/17/tp-state-of-bliss/