testimonials
“Land of Fun reads like a warm summer day at the beach.
I can smell the caramel popcorn and Coppertone, taste
the saltwater taffy in every page. It's a great book to steady the nerves, to provide comfort and a dose of nostalgia in trying times like these. Well done!”
-- Eric Eyre, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist
and author of Death in Mud Lick
“The book was the perfect mix of the history of Funland and personal accounts from the many people connected to Funland in one way or the other. I couldn’t put it down. The book brought back so many memories of my growing up, and now I get to watch my own kids enjoy the same rides, games and family-friendly atmosphere. If you like Funland, you’ll love this book!”
-- Kristine Loeffler, Randolph, NJ
“As a person who grew up taking weeklong pilgrimages to Rehoboth during the summer, Land of Fun brings back great memories. For those who've never been to Rehoboth Beach, the insider knowledge about what makes an amusement park successful for nearly 60 years is both interesting and fun. I like the book so much that I bought 14 copies to give to my relatives so they could relive our Funland experiences as well. Thank you for such a pleasant read. Funland Forever!”
-- John Allnutt, Kensington, MD
From left, Al Fasnacht and Chris Lindsley, the author of Land of Fun, sign books at Funland in Rehobeth, Del.
“I recently picked up the book Land of Fun by Chris Lindsley and highly recommend it. Funland is all about carefree child
happiness on the boardwalk of Rehoboth Beach, DE. Funland has the same sights, sounds, & smells for generations.
Five of the original rides are still in operation and their costs are unchanged. How special it is to be able to see your kids
and grandkids enjoy the same ride that you did? This is also the story of a successful family business now approaching
its 5th generation. How you make someone feel is everything, and Funland is one of the best! Al Fasnacht, the patriarch,
has led by example since 1962. The book highlights Al’s special leadership style, work ethic, and connection with the
staff and customers. Al often says “You are not working for us, you are working with us.” Our family vacationed in Bethany
Beach, DE and our trips to Funland were the highlights. The Funland family has provided a special place for multiple
generations and the memories from it – which this book helps bring back to life – are priceless!”
-- Mark Dirlam, Gaithersburg, MD
“A must-have book for families who have enjoyed Funland for generations!”
-- Peggy Letter, Bethesda, MD
“I finished the book, Land of Fun, last evening and truly enjoyed the story.
I liked the amount of research on the Fasnacht family, and in particular, Al.
I enjoyed how the chapters flowed and the way you told the story about Funland,
a true treasure. It is evident that you love Funland. It is a book that I'm sure
I'll read more than once, because my family and I love Funland and Rehoboth Beach!”
-- Bob Mitchell, King of Prussia, PA
“I loved this charming book! You did a great job representing the family.
As a small business owner myself, I know the family’s unique attributes
are so very important and have created memories for so many. Keep up the good work!”
-- Jane Theriot, Sterling, VA
“The book is very well written. It covers everything from the family history to how they select the rides and games,
and there is a whole chapter dedicated to by favorite ride -- the Haunted Mansion. Three weeks before I got married,
I contacted Funland about buying 400 ride tickets. The ride tickets were our wedding favors. ... Our family
has been planning yearly trips to Rehoboth since the 1960s. Last Christmas I purchased seven books
for my family, and everyone loves the book!”
-- Stephanie Rudewicz, Eastampton Township, NJ
“It's a VERY well told story. I couldn't put it down.
Every chapter is different, yet the whole story ties together PERFECTLY!”
-- Ashley Gray, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA
“I wanted to say thank you and also to let you know how much this book
means to me and my sister. This is a birthday present for her. My family came to
Rehoboth Beach when it was a Methodist meeting ground in the late 1800s and built
a house in 1922. My mother inherited the house at 45 Delaware Avenue
and we moved to Rehoboth in 1960; the rest, as they say, is history. We would sit
out on our front porch in the summer and hear the sounds of Funland down the street.
Our memories of Funland have lasted a lifetime! My favorite remains the old train
that ran in little more than a big circle, but to me, it was the adventure of a lifetime
riding with my dad. I’m grateful to you for taking on this project so others
can read about this special place too.”
-- Marion Jones, Rehoboth Beach,
"I finished your amazing book about Funland a few months ago My son gave it to me to read and reminisce. I went to Funland
as an ornery kid frequently with my parents in the early years.
I t took my kids in the 80s and 90s. And now my son has our
grandchildren, 4 and 6, who are madly in love with it.
Thanks for helping to find the kid again in many of us!”
-- Tom Burns, Dover, DE
Tom Burns in a Funland bumper car that was carried
to the beach by the Great Atlantic Storm of 1962.
