REVIEW

"American Lighthouses (Lighthouses)" by Ray Jones begins with a lengthy introduction about the romance of lighthouses. Isn't that the point of our enjoyment? The history and tales, and the architecture all draw us to wonder about the tall, bold and previously bright buildings. That's the approach Jones assumes throughout the book.

Filled with color photos of both recent and old lighthouses, Jones takes us through each region of the United States. He discusses 450 lighthouses in all, presenting facts about each. We learn the year it was built and, in some instances, rebuilt. He gives us travel information as well, helping us find our way there with general directions or a location.

This could be a primer for the average lighthouse seeker, but it is not the complete word on any of them. A book could be written on each, and we only get a few paragraphs. Most of us will be happy with that. If you need more, look at the more specialized volumes for each region or state.

The writing is crisp and interesting, but never scholarly. It is accessible in the same way as a short encyclopedic entry would be.

The pages are made of a stiffer glossy paper, and the dimensions of the book are awkward. It does not lay flat, and in general is hard to open. This production makes reading difficult, even though it is otherwise very attractive.

A newer edition has since been published and should be checked out, but if the price is low, this is still an adequate choice. "American Lighthouses (Lighthouses)" by Ray Jones will help as you vacation through the US.

Anthony Trendl