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Inspiring and Entertaining Stories from the Sooner State!

The Voices of Oklahoma book series is a compelling collection of stories that bring to life the history, culture, and people of the Sooner State. Drawing from the rich oral history project founded by John Erling, these volumes preserve the voices of Oklahomans who have shaped the state’s legacy—from governors and war heroes to pioneering artists, civil rights advocates, and everyday individuals with extraordinary stories. The series captures Oklahoma's unique character, offering inspiration, education, and entertainment for readers of all backgrounds.

Across three volumes, the series showcases the resilience and achievements of its subjects. Volume I introduces readers to a wide range of inspiring narratives, including that of Henry Zarrow, Paul Getty, and Wilma Mankiller. Volume II explores the triumphs of figures like a WWII hero-turned-governor, the rise of Jana Jae in music, and tales of individuals overcoming many challenges. Volume III features stories of artistic accomplishments, quirky local mysteries, and moving personal accounts from the writing and filming of Killers of the Flower Moon.

Together, these books celebrate the enduring spirit and profound contributions of Oklahomans to history and culture.

Some of the Voices Featured in our Books

Henry Zarrow — Businessman & Philanthropist

Henry Zarrow

Businessman & Philanthropist

A generous heart and humble spirit make him one of Oklahoma's most beloved.

 Wilma Mankiller — Principal Chief, Cherokee Nation

Wilma Mankiller

Principal Chief, Cherokee Nation

"I want to be remembered as the person who helped us restore faith in ourselves."

 Henry Bellmon — Former Governor & Senator

Henry Bellmon

Former Governor & Senator

From the farm, to the war, to the Governor's mansion. Then finally back to the farm.

 Jana Jae — Fiddle Player

Jana Jae

Fiddle Player

A combination of hard work and raw talent helped this dynamic entertainer accomplish stardom.

 Ed Taylor — Communications Pioneer

Ed Taylor

Communications Pioneer

A pioneer in the satellite communication business and philanthropist for many good causes.

 Joyce Jackson — Civil Rights Activist, First Black Female Journalist on Oklahoma TV

Joyce Jackson

Civil Rights Activist, First Black Female Journalist on Oklahoma TV

A tireless advocate for sharing and applauding the history of black communities, civil rights activist Joyce Jackson was the first black female journalist in Oklahoma television history.

 Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear — Principal Chief of the Osage Nation

Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear

Principal Chief of the Osage Nation

Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear, Principal Chief of the Osage Native American Nation, shares his experiences as chief, the history of the Osage Nation, the impact of The Reign of Terror, and his experiences during the filming — and Cannes Film Festival debut — of the movie Killers of the Flower Moon.

 Wanda Clark — Lucille Ball’s Personal Assistant

Wanda Clark

Lucille Ball’s Personal Assistant

Moving from Oklahoma City to California gave Wanda the opportunity to work with one of Hollywood's most beloved stars of the 50s and 60s: Lucille Ball.

… and many more.

The Perfect Stocking Stuffers

Make this holiday season truly unforgettable for the student, teacher, or history buff in your life by giving them the gift of Oklahoma's most influential voices.

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Add the Whole Set To Your Collection


Voices of Oklahoma - Volume I:

Stories from the Oral History Website VoicesofOklahoma.com

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Voices of Oklahoma - Volume II:

Stories from the Oral History Website VoicesofOklahoma.com

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Voices of Oklahoma - Volume III:

Stories from the Oral History Website VoicesofOklahoma.com

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About John Erling

Following his retirement from his top-rated morning radio talk show on Tulsa’s KRMG, John Erling hardly rested on his laurels (which included induction into the Oklahoma Broadcasters Hall of Fame). After a three-year sojourn in advertising, he turned his attention to two of his first interests: Oklahoma history, and how oral history could contribute to Oklahoma History.

The result, in 2009, was the founding by Erling of VoicesofOklahoma.com, a website (and now a podcast and two books) that includes interviews with Oklahomans from all walks of life—from statesmen (and women) to entertainers, and from sports heroes to unsung heroes of World War II.

The success of VoicesofOklahoma.com is demonstrated by its continued growth, its wide acceptance by both teachers and students, and Erling’s induction into the Oklahoma Historians Hall of Fame.

Give the Gift of Oklahoma History

Celebrate the legacy of Oklahoma's most influential voices and the history of our great state.

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