“Today, 24 months after publication and with no major media coverage, Real Philly History, Real Fast is still number nine on Amazon’s list of Best Sellers in Philadelphia Travel Books.”

“This book by Jim Murphy certainly ranks as one of the best guides to visiting Philadelphia … The author has done a fine job presenting a guide that anyone can use to navigate the city and all it has to offer. It is highly recommended.”

“We are so fortunate to live in an area of the city that provides so much to appreciate along with opportunities to explore our past. Bravo to Jim Murphy for adding a new volume to that historic heritage.”

“It dives into South Philly. Magic Gardens, the Italian Market and Sparks Shot Tower are just some of the fascinating entries with South Philly Flavor. Immigration Station, Grand Battery and Gloria Dei Church are also among the must-reads.”

“It’s less of a stodgy Fodor’s or Frommer’s travel book and more of “a cheesesteak wit” kind of guide.”

“The book's subjects range from the Acadians and the Mason-Dixon Survey to the Ninth Street Market and Isaiah Zagar of Philadelphia's Magic Gardens.”

“After visiting Philadelphia on numerous occasions for over 30 years, I thought I had reasonable knowledge of the ‘City of Philadelphia History.’ I was wrong!”

“Murphy introduces the reader to some Philadelphia history that many people might not know at all, and provides a new and interesting perspective on familiar historic places.”

“Jim Murphy distills people, places, and things that slipped through the cracks into a rapid-fire tour that’ll make you want to revisit Philadelphia’s past.”

“A new type of city guidebook, published by Temple University Press June 18, is gaining lots of attention in Philadelphia.”

“Fascinating facts and entertaining material for even the most serious students of Philadelphia history.”

“What makes the book unique, he says, is how much detail is packed into each story.”