Following this introduction (which really reads like a personal letter from the dealer to his customers) there are some 178 books listed, ranging in price from the twenty dollar range to ten or so times that and beyond (the most expensive item that this reviewer noticed was an original signed portrait of Ansel Adams, priced at $1250). And while this catalogue contains no images, it does much in its own unconventional way to convey the spirit of the West as well as the books that are so much a part of it. A must-read for any serious collector of Western Americana.

The catalogue reviewed above is available from Gene W. Baade, Books on the West, 824 Lynnwood Ave., N.E., Renton, WA, 98056-3805, (425) 271-6481, Email bookwest@eskimo.com.

The next catalogue to be reviewed is virtually the diametric opposite of the one discussed above. For many years, the Heritage Book Shop, Inc., has been turning out expensively produced, handsome catalogues featuring an exquisite mixture of valuable books and manuscripts in the Americana and in other categories (mainly, literature). This new catalogue from them is no exception.

To get a feel of the firm (and thus, by proxy, of its catalogues), let us first quote liberally from its “Shop History,” available on Heritage’s website:

“Heritage Book Shop was founded in Los Angeles in 1963 by Louis and Benjamin Weinstein. We are an internationally renowned antiquarian book shop specializing in fine copies of rare books and first editions. Heritage Book Shop constantly maintains one of the largest and finest inventories of rare books and manuscripts in the world.

Although known primarily as an antiquarian book shop, Heritage also houses a considerable inventory of original artwork, autographs, signed documents, and antique maps. Whether you are building a first-rate collection of a favorite author or an extensive library, we gladly offer the combined experience of our knowledgeable and helpful staff. Special expertise and familiarity with the international markets allow us to acquire uncommon titles in top condition at fair market prices.

Desiderata are entered into our records, actively reviewed and material is offered as it becomes available. Your specifications and budgeting requirements are conscientiously honored.