SCENICRUISING

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Check back here for what folks are saying about Scenicruising.
 

• September 18, 2024: "That's a book like no other. It's great." Randy D.
   

• September 9, 2024: "I read your book cover to cover and it's terrific!" Phillips S.
   

• December 30, 2023: "Your book is incredible… I can’t believe the details in it. I’m really enjoying reading it." Michael S.
   

• December 27, 2023: "Great reading!" Michael S.
   

• December 27, 2023: "In my opinion it is the best reference to the Greyhound Scenicruiser." Charles W.
   

• December 7, 2023: "In my opinion, it is without question, your book is the best resource for anyone wanting information about the Greyhound Scenicruiser." Charles W.
   

• November 19, 2023: "I received mine last week and am enjoying it immensely." Phil F.
   

• December 3, 2022: "This is an outstanding book. I refer to it often (having read it cover to cover multiple times)." Douglas P.
   

• November 27, 2022: "You won't be disappointed .. got mine .. pouring over it .. great info !!! great book !! highly recommended !!" Max S.
   

• November 10, 2022: "Book arrived .. very very nice .. almost too much info lol .. its gonna be fun to work thru it .. found my bus in the back photos .. !! much obliged .. great info !!!!"
   

• November 4, 2022: "Paul’s book is the best, most comprehensive documentation of the Scenicruiser published!" Guy F.
   

• January 23, 2022: "I recently bought your book. Great reading, and helped pass the time after returning home from hospital. Very grateful for all your hard work." Matthew F.
   

• January 22, 2022: "I bought your book at the Greyhound reunion in Reno 3 years ago, amazing research and history :)" Guy F.
   

• January 17, 2021: "I too recommend the book "Scenicrusing," by Paul von Fange, if you're interested in a well written, detailed history of Greyhound's GM PD-4501, "Scenicruiser," intercity buses."
   

• June 29, 2020: "All this information and these photographs were from Scenicruising by Paul von Fange. If you are a Scenicruiser fan, you must get that book."
   

• May 23, 2020: "Just received a copy of Scenicruising . It is everything a person would want to know about Scenicruisers . Thanks Paul, a great research." Edwin V.
   

• May 23, 2020: "This has to be one of the best intercity bus histories I have ever read!" Jay C.
   

• April 6, 2020: "Hi Paul, I wanted you to know that I enjoy your book and use it as a reference frequently."
   

• March 30, 2020: Great Book! "Loaded with pictures, drawings, charts and lots of detailed information about the entire Scenicruiser program. The early designs, development, production, operation and re-powering are all covered here." P. Messinio
   

• March 30, 2020: "I'm reading the scenic cruising book again. Boy do I love that book. As an aviation enthusiast as well, I have several books about different aircraft models like the Boeing 777 for instance. I actually have three books about the 777 and none of them have the detail in their books that you have about the PD 4501 scenicruiser. Your book really dives deep. It really does, man. I don't mean to sound so comparative but I'm only doing it in a good way. My book about the world's largest jetliner, the Airbus A380, does not even go into the depths that you did. They did not go back and dig through all the letters and the memo and the stockholders report and all that good stuff like you have. They did not dive into all the different engine components and all that good stuff. I just have a lot of respect for you and your efforts that you have made in the gathering all this information for bus enthusiasts like me. I just pressured my friend Jack into buying your book and I've been friends with him for a year."
   

• December 26, 2019: "Hi Paul, got your book Scenicruising for Christmas, haven’t been able to put it down. I remember seeing them go down Governors Highway down US 54 between Chicago and Springfield , IL. I also rode one on a local route between Indianapolis and Louisville in 1973 . Rode the first seat on the second level."
   

• November 20, 2018: "This book is well written, researched and organized! I would call it the best intercity bus reference & information volume I have ever seen - Paul is offering a real deal and you will not be disappointed!" Jay C.
   

• September 18, 2018: "It's an excellent book. I'm so happy that you were able to publish this. I will enjoy [it]. I like to give a big shout-out to Paul von Fange for this wonderful book. During my time of researching the internet in these past 8 years I never found all this information about this bus. I never found any of the pictures or any of the technical charts or anything like that online. I highly recommend scenicruising fans to purchase both of these books." Sal L.
   

• July 29, 2018: Great Informational Book "Lots of good information on the Scenicruiser Buses. Highly recommended!!" 
   

• July 29, 2018: "I was reading a friend's copy but I'm definitely buying one as well. I really appreciate the time, energy and research you put into the book. Many thanks👍" Jim O. 
   

• April 14, 2018: "Best writing and history of the Scenic I've ever read-you will not be able to put it down!"
   

• April 1, 2018: "Hey, Paul von Fange, I bought one of your books a couple of years ago and I just thought I would tell you what a great book it is. I have thousands of books that I keep in my home library, but yours made it in to the much much smaller collection of books in my office."
   

• March 2, 2018: "This is a highly technical treatise on the development of the Greyhound Scenicruiser. It is interesting to the very technically minded readers who have a particular interest in this particular bus. I found it very interesting. There are some organizational problems within the chapters but all the pertinent facts are there. The illustrations are of poor quality and look as though the book was privately and economically produced. They are readable but not without some effort. Nonetheless I would purchase it again as I have a keen interest in the Scenicruiser, having been a bus driver and having driven this model.
   

• January 29, 2018: "I've read my copy several times, comprehend more stuff every time. Thanks for the book Paul:):)"
   

• January 29, 2018: "A really nice book and well worth investing in! The most complete Scenic book I've ever seen!"
   

• December 14, 2017: "I have enjoyed this great book from cover to cover. It covers so many details to do with the design and building of these road icons. Great information on the problems and solutions that arose from the many new features that arrived with this great bus. Scenicruising and FLAGSHIP OF THE FLEET are two books that go hand in hand with these great cruisers."
   

• October 2, 2017: "I wanted to tell you how much I am enjoying your book. I like the details that you put in it. It is so interesting. Great job!"
   

• August 11, 2017: "I have your book, and enjoyed it greatly.  I was keenly interested in the subject matter, having been in and out of the Indianapolis Greyhound garage a number of times while the Scenicruiser rebuilding was taking place.  At the time I was a very young charter bus driver, and when in Indianapolis on layovers, we frequently parked our buses on Greyhound's back (storage) lot."
   

• July 14, 2007: "You have done an outstanding job on the book - "Scenicruising"!!"
   

• July 14, 2017: "Well done!!! Fred Rayman told me about this masterpiece. I'm so glad that I ordered the book. This book has answered almost all my questions.... "Scenicruising is the BIBLE of the Greyhound Scenicruiser!" Thank You."
   

• June 4, 2017: "I am a lifelong bus guy and fan of your great book.... Keep up the good work on behalf of the Scenicruiser community." Jim, Bracebridge, Ontario
   

• June 2017 review in BUSES WORLDWIDE: "The books has been written by Paul von Fange who has left no stone unturned when telling the story ... The amount of research that has gone into this book is astounding."
   

• May 30, 2017: "More of a working manual cum history than a conventional coffee table book. A lot of detail many readers will probably not need but for owners and would-be owners, probably just right. Print and reproduction standards are only about average and poor by standards of most UK bus and coach books. Interesting engineering, two engines originally fitted, something I never appreciated until recent times."
   

• May 26, 2017: Bus Nuts will love this! "For the Old School bus nut, a fascinating read."
   

• May 16, 2017: "... It was great and so is your book. An amazing amount of detail, wow!"
   

• May 15, 2017: Five Stars "Well written, knows his subject."
   

• May 1, 2017 review in BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS: "... Paul von Fange ... brings special perspective to the coach and our business. He has produced and uniquely thorough history of the development of the motorcoach industry's most recognized "deck-and-a-half" coach.... The scope of this 495-page book is huge ... Many of us in the bus industry think we know the story, but "Scenicruising" lays to rest many misconceptions and fills in a lot of blanks.... [It] is well documented, and encyclopedic in scope, while remaining very engaging.... Bill Luke, a bus-industry legend himself, wrote the foreword, and says the author succeeds "by encouraging the reader to engage and take up the cause of preserving one of America's most  iconic transportation vehicles.""
   

• April 30, 2017: "Like I said before, book is awesome. Scenicruising forever."
   

• April 21, 2017: "Your book is fantastic. I need to reread it again. There was about four things I questioned, nothing major and I didn't make notes. I can't say enough great things about it. You really did it right. Can't wait for the next one!" Fred Rayman, "Mr. Scenicruiser"
   

• April 4, 2017: "... Paul von Fange's 498 page title is what I was really after. Every nut, bolt and washer of the amazing Scenicruiser is revealed through meticulous research and nicely the author considers similar models historically from ACF, White, Kenworth and Fageol who all produced deck and a half buses in the 1920s and 1930s and into the 1950s Beck, ACF, Flxible and Sultana (from Mexico) who turned out look alike Scenicruiser versions....  The author writes about the development and making of the bus in a very readable style ... and an interesting chapter looks at what happened to the few hundred that have survived over the years and mostly changed into what the owners wanted but there are a precious few that have been restored to what a new Scenicruiser looked like inside and out.... The book's back pages have a very comprehensive bibliography, index, technical diagrams (especially electrical) and a fascinating sixteen pages reproducing two Greyhound brochures for the GX-1 and GX-2, thankfully big enough on the page to read most of the copy. If you want to know all Greyhound Scenicruisers this is the only book you'll need. The slight downside is the picture quality, there are several hundred and it's unfortunate that print-on-demand inkjet printing and the paper just doesn't allow for the best reproduction of all these photos and illustrations.
   

• March 27, 2017: Amazing "This book is absolutely amazing! If you like industrial history, this book is great for you!"
   

• November 2016 review in NATIONAL BUS TRADER: "The fascinating book by Paul von Fange covers the story behind the iconic Greyhound Scenicruiser. This is a very comprehensive volume for anyone interested in ... Scenicruisers."
   

• October 11, 2016: "I've been making my way through your book, Scenicruising , and am finding it an informative read about a bus which I loved as a kid. Thank you for all your research which enriches our understanding of this iconic coach."
   

• July 13, 2016: Five Stars "Very informative and makes very interesting reading."
   

• July 4, 2016: "You did a beautiful job of putting the history to that fabulous vehicle, my opinion, there will never be another vehicle with amenities like that vehicle."
   

• May 2016 review in BUS HISTORY Magazine: "A colossal undertaking, this tome is truly indispensable for any fan of Greyhound or the Scenicruiser, and we all owe the author an immense debt of gratitude for his perseverance and thoroughness in tackling what is undoubtedly the most famous coach ever built ..."
   

• May 5, 2016: "... a copy of our recent issue - the one which includes a review of your majestic Scenicruiser book ... It was indeed a pleasure not only to read but to study and absorb -- and I can certainly appreciate the time, effort and dedication that it all required. Quite incredible!"
   

• February 23, 2016: "nice review of an awesome book- thanks for your herculean efforts! The early year construction section has stuff I've never seen before and I'm a dyed in the wool 40 year Scenicruiser nut!
   

• February 22, 2016: ". . . your fabulous and astounding effort on Scenicruising . . . I have received a few inquiries and positive comments from the bus nuts out there, and they are purchasing it . . ."
   

• February 2016 review in BUS RIDE Magazine: "Paul von Fange writes the book on Scenicruisers. Scenicruising: The Greyhound Scenicruiser Story, is a phenomenal research effort . . .  [a] must read . . . his goal for this monumental 500-page tome was to record the history of how the Scenicruiser came to be ... essentially leaving nothing unturned and inspected. As a result, he has managed to meticulously document or debunk every factoid and story told on the Scenicruiser ... Bill Luke ... took honor in providing the foreword, commending von Fange for his penchant for detail in providing the most complete and accurate history on one of the most iconic vehicles the industry has ever seen."
   

• February 2016 review in BUSES Magazine: "This is truly an extraordinary history … the book is authoritative, painstakingly researched and highly readable…. Paul von Fange tells this and much more in this masterpiece, which is one of the best-researched and written bus books ever to cross the editorial desk. You do not need to have a prior interest in American buses to enjoy it, but if you do, you will find it especially irresistible.”
   

• February 12, 2016: "Got your book a couple weeks ago. I'm a long way from having thoroughly read it, but like the development and production parts. Lots of new-to-me info on that subject. I know from experience that any project has its cost/benefit tradeoffs, glitches, and other unforeseen headaches. Even everyday manufacturing of proven stuff has them (keeps my day job interesting). I'm happy you could tell us what some of those early issues were. Clearly, the twin-engine setup was a big risk, but for lack of a powerful enough engine in the early 50's, it made sense to try. I owned PD-4501-427 (motorhome conversion) from 1989 to 2011, when I donated it to the Commonwealth Coach & Trolley Museum in Roanoke, VA. I try to get there once or twice a year, and do what I can to help. The outside is looking good in its gold-stripe livery, the inside is gutted and "awaiting restoration". We can definitely get you some pictures for a future edition of Scenicruising. If you know of any surplus Scenicruiser parts, such as almost everything for the interior, let me know. I know a bus that could use them... Thanks for doing the book!" 
   

• August 28, 2015: Book arrived 2 days earlier and I have not been able to put it down for long. This book is fascinating. I am glad you did this book. It is a complete history from design to finished product. The Experimental buses GX1 and GX2 had more coverage than previous history novels. This book is a real treat.
   

• August 27, 2015: I just finished reading my copy of Scenicruising. Wow! I've learned an amazing amount of detail from it.... I want to say thank you for an amazing, fascinating, and thoroughly readable book.
   

• August 24, 2015: Received your book over the weekend. So far I've just been browsing through but it is amazing! I love the detailed technical information. 
   

• August 17, 2015: Mine arrived. Looks like a very comprehensive history on the Scenicruiser.
   

• August 12, 2015: I want to complement you on the outstanding job you did on the new book. It's just great!! I can't imagine how many hours it must  taken to do the research?
   

• August 11, 2015: Arrived yesterday, very impressive, great work Paul.
   

• August 10, 2015: I just got mine today. Haven't had a chance to do more than a brief scan. I'm very impressed so far.
   

• August 7, 2015: Also, the Scenicruising book is nothing short of fabulous!  I have just started to dig into it, but a quick perusal indicates it is, indeed, the most thorough publication on the subject available. Thanks again for the offering.
   

• July 30, 2015: Your book came today in the mail from Royal Coach. I had a hard time putting it down! I was surprised at the length of the book and the detail that you uncovered in putting it together. The only thing that would have made it better would have been color…..and I’m sure that that was financially prohibitive. [over $100] Thanks for a great book! I will highly recommend it to friends.

 

• July 27, 2015: Thanks a ton! Greatly looking forward to it!

 

• July 27, 2015: I have already ordered your book ....  I look forward to getting it ... I may even want to buy another, so I will keep your website address.

 

• July 25, 2015 (10 hours later): It is a measure of the effect this book has that I have neglected to do several chores today. It is addictive. I have learned more in the time I have spent on the subject of the Scenicruiser than I think I already knew. Remarkable. This is arguably one of the most comprehensive volumes ever written on a singular North American transportation subject, something for which you should feel tremendous pride.
   

• July 25, 2015: I continue to get great pleasure from Tom and Fred's Scenicruiser book. It is a gem. To add to my collection, I picked up my pre-ordered copy of Paul's of new book, "Scenicruising" from George's Trains early this morning. In the half-hour since I got it home, I have perused it and cannot believe the detail contained within its covers. Anyone with even a peripheral interest in this milestone coach should get a copy without delay. It will be well worth it.
   

  It has also brought back many happy memories for me. In the large section on the GX-2, I am reminded of the "Blue Brochure", a copy of which I got from my father when the GX-2 came to Montreal (Paul, I don't know what other Canadian cities it visited but Montreal was on the itinerary - my Dad, a hale and hardy 94 year old retired industrial designer, remembers it well). Not only is the past covered in unbelievable detail, there is also a drawing on page 413 of what a Scenicruiser might look like today. My advice to the designers at MCI and Prevost is to take a look. The smart manufacturer might give it serious thought.
   

  Paul, I cannot imagine the hours you put into this, but I'll tell you, I'm very grateful you did. I have already ordered hardbound and spiral-ringed versions also. These books will be well used.
   

• July 14, 2015: You cannot know how appreciative I am that you have put such effort into this book, Paul. The 4501 was the first coach I ever rode solo (at the age of fifteen) on an epic journey from Montreal to St. Petersburg in the spring of 1963 to visit my grandparents. I was actually on four Scenics in all, and the memory of the Scenicruiser and Greyhound experience is etched in my mind. Already an avid bus fan at the time, but with little knowledge or resources to tap into, the trip was a tremendous eye-opener for me. Thank you again for creating this tribute to this industrial design triumph.
   

• July 1, 2015: This is a huge undertaking and it amazes me that you have packed so much into it. Just reading the index consumed a fair bit of time! I assure you, the book will be very well received whenever it is released. Thanks for so promptly providing feedback, and for your excellent and regularly updated website.
   

• July 1, 2015: Very glad to see that George's Trains in my neck of the woods is now an official retailer for the book, Paul. I was in there on Saturday morning and reminded them about it. Tom and Fred's book did very well there, and I know yours will also. That is where I'll be obtaining my copy. I've looked at your sample pages. This is one impressive piece of work!
   

• June 26, 2015: I have to tell you my friend, you have done a masterful job on this book. I can’t believe some of the info you’ve uncovered!! I feel like I’m reading a crime novel with some this stuff. It’s amazing! ... Wow! Anyone who owns one or is even casually interested in Scenics will HAVE to have this book.

 

• June 17, 2015: “The Scenicruiser was one of Greyhound’s most iconic buses in its fleet, representing the pinnacle of romanticism with intercity bus travel. The thorough attention to detail and enthusiasm toward showcasing the Scenicruiser’s fine history is reflected very well in this piece.”      
  Kim Plaskett, VP of Marketing, Greyhound Lines, Inc.

 

• June 10, 2015: "I'm more than impressed with what you've put together. Great job!"

 

• June 9, 2015: "WOW! I sure wasn’t expecting THAT!! I thought a pdf of your rough draft or the like. Not a full blown book. When is this going to be for sale and available? I’ll start getting the word out....You’ve gone a hell of a job here. I like your web site too. Very nicely done."
   

• June 6, 2015: "Paul's book is a monumental work -- thorough, comprehensive, exhaustive.  It presents a wealth of information about the background and development of the beloved and magnificent Scenicruiser."

 

• "I was privileged to be able to briefly look at a rough draft of this book a couple of years ago at the Blytheville rally. I'm looking forward to buying the finished copy when it's available! This may be the best book yet written about Scenicruisers and greyhound history from the 50's when Greyhound was the biggest bus company in the world."
   

• "I've seen the draft while still in the works and its going to be a great book! Lots of time spent researching details to make it true to its history! Looking forward to it!"
   

• "I have to say, Paul, my jaw dropped when I took a look at the index for your new book. Comprehensive doesn't do it justice. It will be a natural companion to Fred's and Tom's book. I predict it will be equally popular (my hobby shop folks are interested) and in great demand if it gets the exposure it deserves." 
   

• "Congratulations! After browsing through your website, I feel extremely well impressed. I love the name Scenicruising. You've done a fantastically good job of everything I've seen so far."
   

• "… so much interesting detail about the Scenicruiser. It is a masterpiece … the research you have done on the book is fantastic....  Your book on Scenicruisers is great!"

              Bill Luke, Author, Spokane, WA
 

• "Many sources were investigated which revealed many virtually unknown facts which are now documented and in print for the first time. For the serious student of the subject."

              Charles Wotring, Royal Coach, Mechanicsburg, PA
 

• "I cannot wait to see the book!"         

             Tom McNally, author, Greyhound Scenicruiser, Peoria, IL

 

• "Can't wait to get the book!"

             Fred Rayman, author, Greyhound Scenicruiser, Oklahoma City, OK

 

• "Great work!"

             Dave Phillips, Vice President, Greyhound Package Express

 

• "... really nice!"

            John Kyros, GM Media Archive