THE BLUE BEN
A Slice of Life
The history of a beloved Bennington landmark is beautifully chronicled in Caitlin Randall and Peter Crabtree ’ s incredible new book , Sonny ’ s Blue Benn : Feeding the Soul of a Vermont Town
Pulling back the front cover of Sonny ’ s Blue Benn : Feeding the Soul of a Vermont Town , one is immediately drawn into a spellbinding story that perfectly exemplifies the power of community connection . Inside , the complex and compelling tale of Bennington ’ s classic American-style diner , The Blue Benn , is comprehensively documented — as well as its notable impact on Southern Vermont culture .
In the months following the book ’ s release , the journalists behind the book , Caitlin Randall and Peter Crabtree , sat down with VERMONT Magazine to discuss the work that went into making Sonny ’ s Blue Benn and the past , present , and future of the diner . By applying the same spirit of uncompromising integrity that guided Franklin “ Sonny ” Monroe and Mary Lou Monroe ’ s stewardship of The Blue Benn towards their work , they have created a beautiful tribute to a ubiquitously-adored Vermont landmark that is every bit as memorable as a trip to “ The Benn ” itself .
50 VERMONT MAGAZINE