Arizona Books

My husband is Air Force and we moved to Tucson for training. Tucson is awesome and this book shows you where to go, where to eat, what to explore. Was definitely worth it! We would have missed a lot if it hadn't been for this book!

We were new to Tucson and have found this book invaluable. It covers most everything a new resident needs to know. With this book and a good map (you'll need one) you will have a good start in this city. Most information you will need is here. The rest filters in through the newspaper, Tucson websites, and the radio. I highly recommend this book if you plan to relocate to Tucson.

I was looking for a book that would tell me inside information about restaurants, shopping, art galleries, bicycle trails and side trips for our month long visit next winter. This book dealt with all of those subjects and some extraneous subjects I was not interested in. The chapters were well defined, so finding a particular subject was easy. I would recommend this book to visitors as well as those moving to Tucson.

I was moving to Tucson and I had never even been there. I looked through the book to get a feel for the city. After visiting and making the decision to move, I tried many of the activities and resturants in the book. I found all the reviews were accurate. When I asked 'locals' about different things about Tucson, they quite often said just what the book said. I even carry this book in my vehicle as I refer to it quite a bit. If you planning to move to Tucson, this is a must have. The small price of the book goes a long way in learning about all that Tucson has to offer.

I searched all over for a book on Tucson, and this was the best one my bookstore had to offer. I am excited to see all that the city has to offer, but I wish that this book or any book on Tucson at all, had more about people who are moving to the area and have no idea what to make of the different neighborhoods. They offer brief descriptions, but I would have liked to know more.

The premise is intriguing; the execution is terrible. This superficial account never reveals much about the author nor the rich context of Navajoland in which she was immersed for several years. Instead, it reads like a series of day-planner entries. Whatever idealism may have motivated her at the outset, by the end of the book her observations have morphed into cliched rationales for whatever suits her emotional or economic self-interest. Not recommended.

I have been visiting Canyon de Chelly and Chinle for the past 10 years, and found it interesting that the place does not seem to have changed much since the author's days there. This is an entertaining and insightful book that has enhanced my knowledge of the area and people.

This is a book about how a pair of young, ideaistic white folks fared in Navajoland(now known as "Dinee") during the turbulent sixties and seventies. More importantly, it's a book about cultural and individual identity, and how unintended consequences can spring up like mosquitoes in a sultry pond to bite those who venture into a foreign culture, even with the best of intentions.
Written with wit and a welcome dose of humility.

Just finished Into the Canyon. What a lovely book! The naturalness and good humor of the writing are very appealing, and Ms. Moore has a nice way of setting up her anecdotes with a bit of suspense. I especially liked the arrest of the IHS doc in order to commandeer some medical expertise to help her in her coroner duties. And the Hopi Snake Dance. And...well the adventures of the "lawyer and wife" at Chinle are so attractive I felt unlucky not to have been a part of them.

On rare occasions, you actually can tell a book by its cover. Lucy Moore's account of her seven years living and working among the Navajo people near Canyon de Chelly is just such a book. As the cover photo of the "canyon" captures the range of shadow and light of this special and sacred place, so do the stories within explore a full spectrum of human experience. Moore does an especially good job of describing, with humility and humor, her early and on-going lessons about the differences between Anglo and Navajo cultures. Her narrative illustrates the profound and enduring relationships that are possible when people on opposite sides of a cultural divide "stay the course" to discover and celebrate deeper commonalities. Although Moore's book is technically a memoir set in 1968-1975, it contains an inspirational message for our time and for all time.

It is wonderful to see this book back in print. My Mom first gave me this book in 1972. It became a favorite of mine. I would dig it out and read it every decade or so. Being an Arizona native made it all the more exciting because I had been to the places that she talked about. Even if you have never gone West, this is a great book.

In the late nineteenth century, Martha Summerhayes and her young lieutenant husband take up residence in the dusty army forts of Arizona. Vanished Arizona is a collection of memories of those days. Along the way, the reader meets a variety of characters such as a nearly-naked Indian cook and a "dentist" who accidentally extracts the wrong tooth.

We learn of treacherous travel in which mule carts overturn and people drown while crossing rivers. In one harrowing adventure, young Martha is advised by her husband to shoot herself and her baby son in preference to being captured by Indians.

What I love about this book is the guileless storytelling that seems unblemished by political correctness. She does not varnish the truth as she sees it, nor does she attempt to make her life in dusty Arizona attractive; she offers an honest appraisal of the rather brutal trials of an army wife in that era.

At times you'll love Martha Summerhayes for her courage, and at times you'll wish she didn't whine quite so much.

I recommend this book to anyone interested in frontier America and the brave people who settled the land.

This is the autobiographical story of a young army bride who accompanies her husband to Fort Apache, one of the most remote frontier outposts in the Arizona Territory, in 1874. To accomodate to the vicissitudes of the transition from a sheltered New England home to the wilderness she must endure hardships in travel, hostile Apaches, lack of even basic amenities, and inhospitable climate. Her accounts of how she survived these problems and of her interactions with soldiers and civilians provide insight into the early history of the Arizona Territory as well as into life in the frontier army. The book is nicely annotated to provide extra detail on places and persons, and there is a good selection of additional references. It is well written and, in my opinion, a must read for those interested in this mostly forgotten part of our history.

Part travelogue, part coming-of-age story, a bit of a sociological study, and entirely a memoir of a woman's encounter with the unknown, "Vanished Arizona" is an introduction to a world most of us only know from John Ford westerns. In 1874, new Army wife Martha Summerhayes made the unusual decision to head west with her husband to his post on the Wyoming frontier. Further travels take them south through Colorado, Arizona, and other parts of the West. Along the way, Martha becomes a mother, meets Apaches face-to-face, and leaves behind the prejudices and presuppositions of her New England upbringing. This is a remarkable chronicle of the American Southwest from an all-too-rare perspective. Nearly a century after it was first published, it holds up very well for the contemporary reader.

Complain, complain, complain! Nantucket born and educated in Germany, Martha Dunham married John Summerhayes, a second lieutenant attached to the 8th Infantry, and in 1874 she accompanied him west to Fort D.A. Russell and then to Fort Apache in Arizona. This memoir recounts her experiences in the West (mainly in Arizona, but also including time spent in California, Nevada, Nebraska, Santa Fe, and Texas), and there is hardly a single positive thing she can say about her experiences. Forlorn, desolate, dreadful, unkempt, and disagreeable are adjectives often employed by Mrs. Summerhayes, and she is a constant complainer about the high temperatures, dusty conditions, poor living conditions, rattlesnakes, bugs, and just about every other inconvenience encountered on a western frontier military post in the 1870s.

Clothes are important to her: one of her first observations upon reaching Arizona is how old-fashioned the women are dressed, and one of the greatest tragedies confronting her was when a steamer carrying all her clothes burns to the waterline and she is left with only the clothes on her back. At one point she is so miserable that she questions whether marrying a soldier was wise for her, and she writes, "[I] decided then and there that young army wives should stay at home with their mothers and fathers, and not go into such wild and uncouth places." Her harsh opinions are somewhat tempered over time (and when her husband is assigned to "less primitive" posts such as Fort Niobrara in Nebraska), but it's clear her experiences were more an ordeal than an adventure. She must have been a pain, too, to others, with her demands about procuring good cooks and servants. Editor Dan Thrapp finds humor enough in her complaints (and in her "flexibility" in her responses to the complaints of others about her) that the reader "warms to her," but I found that not to be my response.

Interesting is Mrs. Summerhayes's decision not to write at all about the Indian campaigns or any other chiefly historical matters of her time and place. "I have given simply the impressions made upon the mind of a New England woman who left her comfortable home ... to follow a second lieutenant into the wildest encampments of the American army." Fortunately (for us, not her) her husband transferred frequently from one post to another, which gave the author different encampments and on-the-road experiences to relate. She paints quite a different picture than one would get in a military memoir, for example. And there's value to that, despite the negativity. Life was hard for the well-bred Mrs. Summerhayes, and she makes no bones about it in this memoir.

A beautiful selection of images that trace how the Canyon has been viewed through a lens over the past cnetury and how that view has evolved. You can begin to appreciate how the Canyon got to be grand (to paraphrase the title of a book on the history of the Canyon). It was also nice to have included images of the types of cameras that were used to make the images.

Lasting Light is a treasure, a compilation of photographs taken of the Crand Ganyon over a broad stretch of time. The viewer/reader may gain a sense of history, passing from the old to the new. The book is an experience in images of the vast wonder of the Canyon and the smallest, most discreet detail. Because the text is direct and not-technical, anyone interested in what is grand and lit by extraordinary light, the Grand Canyon itself, will find this work a delight.

I bought this as a present for my wife. We had just returned from a trip that included a visit to the Grand Canyon, and I wanted to get her a memento of the visit. This book sounded good, but was not the one that included the beautiful vistas that we wanted. There are some photos too dark to really discern why they are included. There are some photos of a boat on the bank of the river. That could be from anywhere.
Although I suppose others may find it interesting, we didn't want a book of prose, we just wanted amazing photos. This was not that book.

Yes, you would expect truly astounding photography here, and you get exactly that, in lots of different flavors too, but the stories are deft and revealing -- far more than in a book of photos alone of a place that you couldn't take a bad photo if you tried. Trimble himself is a master craftsman with the camera, but his service here is to gather some really remarkable work and voices into a tome that anyone who has gaped and prayed there will want to paw through before you get major brownie points for giving it to someone else. Terrific work.

This book is so awesome, and of such high quality, that its Amazon price seems surreal...I have two copies and am ordering a third, for posterity or whatever.

Intensely beautiful photographic prints, at the very leading edge of Canyon photos....almost beyond description!

If you buy one copy of this book, you'll then want another for a gift, and another for your own collection.....etc.

This is a well written book covering the early days of Tom Horn's life. Tom Horn lead a very interesting and exciting life and he conveys that to the reader very well. Although the book does not cover his exploits as a stock detective, this book still raises doubts about whether Tom Horn was guilty of the offense for which he was hanged.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone having an interest in the old west. This book was definitly a great addition to my library

As with all autobiographies this book provides us with a fascinating picture of the adventurous life of Tom Horn. Yet it is the death of Tom Horn that has been the subject of great controversy to the present day; hanged for the murder of a fourteen year old boy, on evidence that was highly questionable.

This book is refered to as a vindication, and though many have disputed this, in some subtle ways it is. Whilst reading this narrative of Tom Horn's years as a scout and interpreter, at no point could I envisage him being the kind of man to kill a boy from ambush. He portrays himself in his autobiography as hard working, fearless, trustworthy, and as a man who served his country well. Though with any autobiography the reader has to accept an elemant of bias, it appears at times as if Tom Horn tries to minimize his own heroics and exploits. To this end the book serves its purpose.

What is most astounding about the book is where it finishes. Tom Horn makes no attempt to explain the events leading upto his conviction and execution. This is both surprising and baffling. Surly most men in his position would have taken the opportunity to plead their innocence. Not so with Tom Horn. He seems content to let the readers make their own decision, by things reported in the newspapers at that time. Maybe he was just confident that people would believe him to be innocent despite much of what was being written.

This edition of the book was supplemented with letters written to and from Tom Horn whilst he was imprisoned. These are valuable as they offer an insight into Tom's state of mind during this period. In a couple of these letters he does choose to explain a little of the events leading up to his arrest, to certain associates

Tom Horn's personal narrative is just as fascinating for what it excludes, as for what it includes. It also provides an excellent look at other celebrated and infamous characters such as Al Seiber, Geronimo and the Apache Kid. For those interested in the life of Tom Horn, or the role of government scouts/interpreters, the book will hold much interest. It is also recommended that readers have some basic knowledge of Tom Horn - particularly his latter life - for a greater understanding.

This is an exceptional autobiography that details the life of Tom Horn prior to the tragic incident in Wyoming. The book is NOT a vindication. The material added by John Coble is clearly identified, and were his personal attempts to vindicate Tom Horn. Written in jail and on his way to the gallows, Tom Horn wrote only about his life as Indian Scout and Intepretor, because this is how he wished to be remembered! "Life of Tom Horn" reflects upon his childhood, and the early adult events that shaped the most glorious and enjoyable years in the prime of his life. He probably deserved the Medal of Honor for the Apache Wars. Details of his life as a miner, Pinkerton detective, rodeo champion and mule skinner for the Spanish American War were left out, probably intentionally. His reputation in Wyoming was so thoroughly distorted and trashed by journalistic sensationalism fueled by ongoing range fueds, that it probably wasn't worth addressing. (He is still hated today by many.) I feel he believed that good would prevail and find him innocent. Time wasn't on his side when he wrote this...

The book is a fabulous historical accout of life in the southwestern frontier. The details of his life as indian scout are easy to put into perspective and supported by many factual historical accounts of the time. If one has a map and photographs of the southwestern United States and Mexico, it becomes even easier to put into perspective. The book is also a great resource for anyone researching Geronomo and the Apache wars.

To this day, Tom Horn's innocence or guilt is embroiled in controversy. Some family members still carry a burning hatred for the man, others admiration and love. Visit the Historical sections of the Denver or Cheyenne Library's, so you can read newspaper accounts of the politics of the range fueds and wars in Wyoming during Tom Horn's time, and come to your own conclusions. After the Apache Wars, Tom Horn became a drifter of various jobs or "careers," typical of many cowboys of that era. He always tried to do the right thing and worked, for the law, not against it. At over 6 feet tall, muscular and lean, he was imposing, but soft spoken, and a loner. When he went to Wyoming, he "walked softly and carried a big stick." The big stick being his reputation as indian fighter and killer, although there's no proof he murdered anyone. He always maintained his innocence, and remained defiantly brave to the very end.

this book was a pleasant surprise written by tom horn himself it reads like a good movie horn although he had only a rudimentary education is a very good writer the book is full of his adventures and colorful characters of the apache wars with GERONIMO he explains the nuts and bolts of tracking indians in the southwest usa it is ajohn wayne movie in print

This book was written by Tom Horn while waiting in a Cheyenne, Wyoming Jail to be hanged. It is a very colorful account of the Government Scout, Arizona Territory Lawman, and "foster son" of Geronimo himself. While it is a very one sided story that almost pleads with you to believe that Tom was blameless, it gives a VERY unique look into the solitary life of a scout and hired gun in the real old west. "A Must Read"

Engrossing,"hard to put down" style, like a good murder thriller, but with a depth of knowledge and intelligence far beyond what one usually encounters in that genre. I'm a physician from Phoenix, and can attest to the accuracy of the city referrences, but his knowledge of cryonics goes way beyond what I knew. My favorite aspect, however, was his detailed description of the tactics and procedures used by attorneys in a high profile criminal trial. The author is obviously an expert in this area, and it is facinating to get a "behind the scenes" view of what goes on. He's a great advocate, but I still am cold about being frozen!

This courtroom thriller is right out of today's headlines.

Omega Terrace provides sophisticated cryonic freezing and storage services to clients who bet their bodies, and their millions, that science will someday discover how to "reanimate" their frozen remains.

Trouble begins when OM's beautiful head scientist agrees with her incurably ill friend that "pre-mortem" freezing is the best way to preserve his body from further ravages of his terminal disease. Pre-mortem freezing is science jargon for starting the freezing protocol before the client is legally dead. The ferocious county attorney calls it murder, and wants the death penalty.

The trial preparation and courtroom drama are intense as the stakes couldn't be higher. You'll recognize the characters: the obnoxious local politician looking for a "hook" for his reelection campaign, the high-priced brillant New York trial attorneys who've seen and done it all, and the equally talented yet less polished prosecutor who know's evil when he sees it and is committed to fight it.

This courtroom thriller owns your attention all the way to its disturbing end. Long Life? will also keep you thinking about life and death questions that have no easy answers, and that's no small accomplishment for a thriller.

LONG LIFE is excellent! Robert Begam has succeeded in creating a new and exciting courtroom drama that exceeds his previous novel FIREBALL and that book was terrific. Several of the same great characters return in LONG LIFE and they are more clever than ever. The story explodes into the courtroom forcing you to deal with your own mortality. How will you face death when the moment comes? Who will help you? What methods are available...and what is the morality of the method? Be prepared for a wild ride that achieves an absolute rarity in literature...you find yourself thinking, analysing and taking sides, all while being totally caught up and involved in this great courtroom adventure. Yes, all that and I didn't even mention the beautiful and sexy blonde doctor. Read it. I did and it was fantastic.
Brian Gordon Sinclair: Playwright, HEMINGWAY ON STAGE

A fantastic book that you cannot put down with may twists. I recommend it highly to anyone who wants a great book to read while on an airplane.

I really enjoyed "Fireball", Robert Begam's earlier novel, and was delighted to meet several of my favorite characters again in "Long Life?" Begam's credentials as an experienced litigator enable him to take us through the corridors of powerful law firms, the prosecutors office, and, better still, inside the thinking, the speculation, the anxieties and the motives of these fascinating players as they confront both legal and moral dilemmas that are just over the horizon. Good fun and deep thoughts in one delightful package!

Trixie Belden was an ordinary girl who never studied or did her work has
been invited to a wonderful place in Arizona ! But she has to study all winter! So then Honey (her best friend) convinced her mother to go! So She got to go! Then at the place it wasn't all that exciting. Di, her uncle owns the place and is supposed to be the director ,is being very weird...

I've read them all - I own them all. Trixie Belden has been one of my favorites since I was very young.

This book was good to me! It didn't have a real bad guy though. I liked all the characters and all the problems Trixie and her friends encountered. It is a really fun book and I liked it! This book deserves 4 stars!

Christmas at Uncle Monty's dude ranch in Arizona sounds like heaven to the Bob-Whites, until they find that the ranch may have to close when the family of Mexicans that keeps the place going mysteriously disappears. Who can Uncle Monty ever find to tidy the guest rooms, wash the mountains of dishes, and serve the dinners? Hmmmm? On top of it all, Trixie has to bring her grades up before the midyear exams, so Brian and Jim tutor our distracted heroine. But throw in in the secrets of some unhappy guests and add the cook's little son Petey, who inexplicably wants to run away to join his Granddaddy in a surreal 'cavelike place'? and Trixie is in her sleuthing element. The book also slides in lots of Arizona and Mexican history and customs, so it gets points for being educational too!

Christmas vacation is coming, but the Bob-Whites aren't dreaming of a white Christmas. Their hopes are set on Di's Uncle Monty who has promised all of them a vacation to his dude ranch in Arizona. But the trip almost doesn't come off. Trixie needs to study to bring her grades up. And when they arrive, Monty is having a crisis. Seems most of his staff has vanished with no warning and no explanation during the busiest time of the year. Where did they go? The Bob-Whites agree to take over the chores, but with Trixie's studies, will she ever get to have any fun? And that doesn't take into account the mysteries surrounding the other staff members and a few guests. Will these distract Trixie from her studies?

This was the last book series creator Julie Campbell wrote. It's not her best with lots of background on Arizona and Indian culture slowing the story down. The mystery, once it does get going, focuses on what is going on in people's lives. There are so many things happening I found it interesting even if it's not a traditional type mystery. Spending time with Trixie and her friends is always enjoyable, and the efforts they go through to make Christmas enjoyable for all is entertaining as well.

This was the second book I read many years ago when I was first getting into the series. While it's not up there with Julie Campbell's best, it's still and entertaining read that holds a special place in my heart.

I own both vol.1 and Vol 2. of Photographing Southwest". I agree with other reviewers that they contain excellent materials and are very useful.
What I don't like is that Vol. 2 contains the following that is essential the same in Vol.1:
PREFACE (identical)
ACKNOWLWDGEMENTS (identical)
ABOUT THIS BOOK (differs in a few words)
Chapter 1 (identical)
Chapter 2 (identical)
Chapter 16 (Identical to parts of Chapter 5 in vol. 1)
APPENDIX (Majority is the same)

In other words, 30% Vol. 2 is already in Vol.1. In my opinion, it should really be a single book containing both.

Martres's two books on photographing the Southwest are remarkably useful, sensible, and affordable. He keeps his directions--both geographic and photographic--brief, relevant, and precise. Even if you don't take a camera, these books can help you reach remarkable places of which may never or only vaguely have heard of. I even enjoy just "armchair travelling" with these books.

This book, combined with Photographing the Southwest: Volume 1, which covers Colorado and Utah, is an absolutely essential tool for serious photographers who are looking to spend time photographing some of the most spectacular natural sights of Utah, Arizona, New Mexico and Colorado.
I own both books, together with the accompanying cd roms, and I can honestly say, as a serious advanced photographer, I have never made a better investment. Since aquiring these guides, I have returned to the Southwest three times in three years, and each time have returned home with memories and photographic images that I had never known existed. These books are well written with great attention to details and chock full of black and white photos which excite the imagination. The cd roms provide hundreds more photos of these and nearby areas in vivid color. Together, this is a must have collection.
These books are not mere travel guides; they are an indispensable aid to photographers looking for the most photogenic spots in any given area of the Southwest. After spending hours enjoying these volumes, you will learn exactly how to get to each of these awesome spots, the best time of the year to travel to them, the preferred time of day to arrive for ideal lighting, suggested lenses and equipment and even the best spots (literally) to stand for ideal camera angles. Laurent Martres pretty much does it all for you; however, you will have to put on your own hiking boots and do your own walking, climbing, scrambling and whatever else it may take to get you to some of these hidden and often out of the way places. The rewards are great for those willing to follow his suggestions which will often include getting up well before dawn, hiking a few minutes or a few hours in some cases and a few days in others, scrambling over bolders or squeezing thru narrow canyons, wading thru waist high water or four-wheeling over back roads that will challenge the most adventureous among us.

Since getting hold of these books I have done all of the above and have always come home with more than my share of wonderful memories and prizewinning photos. I have discovered spots that I must return to over and over again because I just can't get enough of their jaw dropping beauty. I have spent time in locations you won't find in travel books or just about anywhere else for that matter. Many of these are places you would drive right by, never realizing their existence were it not for these books. A good number of the places featured in these books are generally not well publicized or often written about.
If you have interest in photographing or seriously exploring the lesser known and less often visited scenic wonders of America's Southwest, then I can't recommend both of these books and their accompanying cd roms enough. They should be on the bookshelves and in the backpacks of all serious lovers of the Southwest. They are invaluable in planning my photo trips; before I leave home, I pretty much know where I'll be going each day and what I can anticipate along the way. I have yet to be disappointed in any of the places I've spent time hiking to; quite the contrary since I am most often overwhelmed upon experiencing these spots in person. I expect to spend many future years searching out and exploring the great number of wonderful places Laurent Martres brings to our attention in both of these volumes. Thanks, Laurent; I'm looking forward to your future works.

This is a very good book with detailed information for photographors. It gives photo advices, time estimation, etc, which can be very helpful for planning your trip. I give it 4 stars for two shortcomings: the first is that it doesn't have colorful pics, although you can buy the accompanying CD; the second is that it doesn't contain any maps, so you'll have to figure out by yourself where the places are. I'd suggest you also look up one other title by Joseph K. Lange: Photographer's Guide to the Grand Canyon and Northern Arizona. In my opinion, that one is even better.

Have you ever been in "The Southwest" without looking at Laurent Martres two guide books Vol. 2 and Vol. 1, than you really have to visit the place again.
If you see landscape-pictures in magazines, calenders, on postcards or posters and you think: "Whow, this is something I want to see with my own eyes.", than you will surely find it in Martres' two books "Photographing the Southwest".
He not only shows beautiful pictures from things you have never seen before and I'm sure you like to, no, additional he gives very good way descriptions (including needed time) and a lot of tips how to take the best pictures and at which time of the day.
I visited the area and the National Parks (and the visiting tourists) in more than one vacation. Laurent Martres was able to lead me to the places I ever dreamed of, "behind the tourists".
Planning your next trip? Best buy!!!

I recently purchased this book while on a visit to Sedona. I was looking for the Arizona Highways photography guide, but looked at this one at the bookseller's suggestion. The AH book is better for learning composition, lighting, etc, but if you are a nature photographer looking for a where to go book, this is the better choice. Well written with great suggestions for scenery on back roads and hiking trails, as well as the all important recommendations for which time of day and season to visit. There are no maps, so you'll need an atlas or GPS. Great pictures of what you'll find at any given location (better color reproduction than the AH book, too) and suggestions for side trips/hikes and best venues. Highly recommended for serious photographers.

A beautiful book but lacked the technical information that I take a keen interest in.

This was the first book of the "Southwest" series that I have read. I purchased the book to prepare for a trip I was taking to Arizona. I found the book to be an excellent reference for someone that isn't familiar with all of the wonderful landscape locations available in the Grand Canyon state. The only thing that would make the book better would be greater details in the "getting there" sections. Some local maps and maybe GPS headings would also be a great addition. Some of the best spots are very difficult to find and these additions would really help out. Overall, I am very pleased that I bought this book and kept it by my side throughout my journey. I highly recommend it.

In the first edition of this book I found Mr. Martres' directions to be hard to follow and, in some cases, in error. This edition has greatly improved them.

If you're planning a tour of the American Southwest these brilliant books are simply the best possible guide to what to photograph, and how. In three volumes Martrès guides you to all the photographic highlights of Arizona, Utah, Colorado and New Mexico. At the well known tourist spots he tells you what and when to shoot for best results, but he's also not afraid to take you off the beaten path to some less frequently visited scenic gems.

I've just completed a photographic holiday following roughly the traditional "grand circle" route, and I couldn't have got some of my most successful shots without these books.

The author provides consistent, detailed instructions for each location, including guidance on lenses and timing. Sometimes he even tells you which rock to stand on! Follow his instructions carefully, and you'll usually get good results, although some instructions require careful interpretation.

It's also great fun shouting "snap!" when you realise the only other souls in some lonely location are also clutching a copy of the same book.

All three volumes have recently been updated, with high quality colour photos throughout, and a comprehensive index of locations including ratings for accessibility and scenic and photographic value, invaluable if a tight schedule means making difficult choices.

I'm already planning my next trip using volume 3! Highly recommended.

This cookbook is one of the best I have seen for a long time (yes, the cover is very creative and fun!). It truly reflects the talent and creativity of the women belonging to the Junior League of Phoenix who spent countless volunteer hours creating this current gem of a cookbook. The recipies are very easy to follow and turn out fabulous. I especially enjoyed the menu planners located in the front section of the book. I would highly recommend this exceptional cookbook to everyone. I have also purchased several copies to give as gifts and have received rave reviews from the recipients of these gifts! Two thumbs up on this one ladies!!

I'm a lifelong collector of cookbooks. Some of my favorites are those put out by the various Junior Leagues across the country, invariably wonderful snapshots of local culture. Reflections Under the Sun, is, however, probably the single biggest disappointment that I have acquired over the years. Charleston Receipts this is definitely not!

There is very little that is local to Phoenix, Arizona or the Southwest in Reflections. The book is chock full of restaurant recipes, seafood and goat cheese, while the true flavors of Arizona are scarce at best.

Not a "bad" book - but certainly no star!

Reflections Under the Sun has to be one of my favorite cookbooks for everyday cooking to family entertaining. It is contains healthy recipes for everything from soup to nuts. Some of my favorites are the Calico Chicken Chili (wonderful on a cold winter's day) or the Pear and Blue Salad (so simple to make). I also love the Cowboy Carmel Corn and so do my kids. It is the perfect snack anytime! Reflections Under the Sun, makes a wonderful addition to any cookbook collection and I think is the perfect gift for family and friends!

This cookbook is one of the best I have seen for a long time (yes, the cover is very creative and fun!). It truly reflects the talent and creativity of the women belonging to the Junior League of Phoenix who spent countless volunteer hours creating this current gem of a cookbook. The recipies are very easy to follow and turn out fabulous. I especially enjoyed the menu planners located in the front section of the book. I would highly recommend this exceptional cookbook to everyone. I have also purchased several copies to give as gifts and have received rave reviews from the recipients of these gifts! Two thumbs up on this one ladies!!

Reflections has some wonderfully Southwestern recipes like Southwest Black Bean and Wild Rice Salad and Green Chile Cornbread. There are even wine recommendations with almost all the recipes--for people like me who don't know what to serve with dinner. And there are all kinds of menu suggestions from Fiesta to Summer dinners. The desserts are incredible. The Grand Chocolate Mint brownies are beautiful to look at and truly decadent. And my kids love the Wrangler Ranger Cookies. There are so many great recipes in the book, it's hard to decide what to make first. The San Francisco Chicken is so easy to make, and delicious too. I often make it when we have last minute dinner guests. This is a great value cookbook for all the wonderful recipes. I highly recommend it.