Florida has long been a mecca for those looking for a change of scenery, pace, or fortune. One way or another, all who enter Florida are "touched by the sun." Its powerful rays leave them with a sense of well-being, better health, or maybe just a sunburn. Come meet some of the glorious sun-drenched characters.

In this third volume of the Florida Chronicles, a continuing series on the state’s history, author Stuart B. McIver tells his tales of Florida through the often tangled lives of people who could never be brushed aside as ordinary. These players in that great theatrical production called Florida include presidents, cowboys, gangsters, baseball players, writers, politicians, captains of industry, inventors, movie stars, and even a fire chief.