This exhaustive & definitive work sets out in the greatest detail the historical, physical & cultural characteristics of the more than 700 varieties of apples that once grew in the state of Maine, over 200 of which were of Maine origin. Perhaps the greatest value of this book, however, lies in the copious reference notes to each variety, comprising all known American sources prior to 1920. Further, there is a long chapter dealing with the history of Maine pomology since 1629 & another on the discovery of Maine apples never written about. Included also are numerous appendices & several indices to enhance the utility of the work to the researcher. Nevertheless, due to the easily readable style of the text, this book is of the utmost value not only to the pomological historian & variety collector, but to anyone who desires to read of a special way of rural life that is, unfortunately, gone forever. Available in an elegant, hard bound, numbered & autographed edition only from the author: George A. Stilphen, R.R. 1, Box 1347, Bolster's Mills/Harrison, ME 04040. (207) 743-9420. A 30% discount is available to dealers, 20% to libraries.