Writing Out Loud, 2009
“In the souls of the people, the grapes of wrath are filling and growing heavy, growing heavy for the vintage.”—John Steinbeck, The Grapes of Wrath
Bob Burke
(1948– )
Historian Bob Burke has written over 100 nonfiction books celebrating Oklahoma and its people. Particularly known for his biographies, he has collaborated with other writers to tell the stories of such legendary Oklahomans as David Boren, Wiley Post, Ralph Ellison, and Kate Barnard. He has also published several retrospectives, including The Glory Days of Summer: The History of Baseball in Oklahoma (1999).
An attorney as well as an author, Bob comes to the state’s defense in John Steinbeck Was Wrong about Oklahoma! (2008). The book challenges Steinbeck’s characterization of “Okies” in his classic novel, The Grapes of Wrath (1939).
Related listings: George Nigh and David Boren
Did You Know...
Bob Burke began his career in radio, working as a disc jockey and sportscaster.Getting Started with Bob Burke
Selected WorksGood Guys Wear White Hats: The Life of George Nigh, 2000
John Steinbeck Was Wrong about Oklahoma! 2008
Oklahoma Statesman: The Life of David Boren, 2008
Bob Burke’s website