On my book tour for “Overburden: Modern Life on the Iron Range” I’ve heard several positive comments about the new documentary “Iron Range: Minnesota Building America.” Well, I must admit that I haven’t had the chance to see it yet (they’ve been playing it on one of those digital broadcast channels we don’t get out in the sticks). But you and me both will have the chance soon.

The program, which is a comprehensive look at the Iron Range’s importance to the history of Minnesota and the United States, will finally air on WDSE, Channel 8, in northern Minnesota on Thursday, June 11 at 9 p.m.

A friend also tells me it will also be shown on Monday, June 7 at Kaleva Hall in Virginia at 10 a.m. and noon during the Knights of Kaleva’s pancake breakfast. THAT is the preferred way to see this documentary, if you really want a taste of Iron Range. But the TV works fine, too.

The documentary features, among many others, Pam Brunfelt, the historian who was instrumental in shaping several concepts in my book.