United States of LEGO®

United States of LEGO takes readers on a journey across America that has never been seen before. Photographer Jeff Friesen composes artful LEGO brick dioramas, each revealing a scene with a witty caption that celebrates what makes every American state unique, incorporating toy-scale monuments, colorful citizens going about their daily lives, and new spins on state history.

Here is a fresh vision of every state assembled with bricks, from Washington’s steaming rivers of espresso to the ancient reptiles in Florida (we’re not talking about alligators here). Brick Minnesotans tirelessly shovel snow but are ready to pose with a friendly “okey-dokey!”

Giving readers even more than a cross-country tour, United States of LEGO reveals intriguing secrets of the states for the first time. Have you ever wondered who extinguished Rhett Butler and Scarlett O’Hara’s passion in Georgia, what’s fishing for fishermen in Alaska, or how NASCAR drivers earn extra spending money in North Carolina? The answers will surprise and delight you.

Readers will also find thrilling scenes from history re-created in meticulous detail. Who can forget Lewis and Clark’s intrepid manservant, Gaston? Okay, the history textbooks did, but not United States of LEGO. And what ever happened to the giant turkeys that once roamed Massachusetts? Your education may have missed these tender birds whose fate is detailed here.

Every captioned photograph is infused with good-natured humor, and occasional ill-humored nature, such as the Maryland crabs who are through with being lunch. Speaking of lunch, the famous Kentucky Frying Chicken awaits your order within these pages. Don’t delay! Good citizens of all ages will enjoy exploring every state’s unique character in enchanting LEGO dioramas.

Jeff Friesen’s photography has received worldwide acclaim for a remarkably diverse array of work. His awards include the most prestigious in the photography world, including those from Communication Arts and Photo District News. Every summer Jeff works alongside his elementary school–aged daughter, June, as they take pictures of dioramas made with June’s toys. It’s serious fun. Jeff lives in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. To see more of his work visit jeff-friesen.com and thebrickfantastic.com.

"The scenes touch on the varying cultures, histories, traditions, and politics of each state . . . playful humor . . . Sometimes it's easy to forget just how distinctive our states are. These photos will make you want to go unearth that old LEGO set." —Huffington Post

"In his book United States of LEGO, photographer Jeff Friesen takes a comical yet artful look at the building blocks of America, one state at a time." —Reader's Digest

"An impressive collection of LEGO creations that 'capture' all fifty US states. . . . Look closely and you might spot some subtle touches." —Atlantic Cities

"Whimsical and smart, wittily captioned and rich in vibrant color and detail." —Resource Magazine

"Everything's better when it's done with LEGOs, especially Canadians making fun of Americans." —Wired

"There's nothing wrong with a little home-state pride. But it's important to maintain a sense of humor about the goofy qualities that make each of the fifty states special. Photographer Jeff Friesen pokes a bit of good-natured fun at each of the US states." —Mashable