The best 26 Genealogy books

The Family Tree Cemetery Field Guide by Joy Neighbors is a comprehensive resource for anyone interested in tracing their family history. It provides practical tips and step-by-step instructions for visiting cemeteries, locating ancestors' graves, and interpreting tombstone symbols and inscriptions. With this guide, you'll learn how to uncover valuable information and stories about your ancestors, bringing your family tree to life.

The Genealogist's U.S. History Pocket Reference by Nancy Hendrickson is a comprehensive guide that provides essential historical context for anyone researching their American family history. From key events and timelines to immigration patterns and census data, this book equips genealogists with the knowledge they need to uncover their ancestors' stories. It's a must-have resource for anyone delving into their family's past.

Ancestral Trails by Mark D. Herber is a comprehensive guide to tracing your family history in England, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland. It provides detailed information on how to use various records and archives, as well as tips and strategies for overcoming common research challenges. Whether you're just starting out or have hit a dead end in your genealogical journey, this book is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in uncovering their ancestral roots.

Organize Your Genealogy by Drew Smith provides practical tips and strategies to help genealogists keep their research organized. From creating a filing system to utilizing technology effectively, this book offers valuable advice for anyone looking to streamline their genealogy research process.

The Orange Lilies by Nathan Dylan Goodwin is a gripping historical mystery novel that delves into the secrets and lies of a family torn apart by World War I. When genealogist Morton Farrier is hired to trace the family history of a client, he uncovers a web of deception and betrayal that leads him to a startling discovery. Set against the backdrop of the war, this book is a compelling tale of love, loss, and the enduring power of family bonds.

Hey, America, Your Roots Are Showing by Megan Smolenyak is a fascinating exploration of American genealogy. Through captivating stories and insightful research, the book uncovers the hidden connections that link us all to the past. It challenges us to rethink our understanding of history and identity, and reminds us that our roots are an integral part of who we are.

They Came in Ships by John Philip Colletta is a comprehensive guide to tracing your immigrant ancestors through the records of their arrival in America. Colletta provides step-by-step instructions and valuable insights to help genealogists navigate through passenger lists, naturalization records, and other resources. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced researcher, this book is an essential tool for uncovering your family's immigration story.

Britain's Royal Families by Alison Weir is a comprehensive exploration of the history and lineage of the British royal family. From the early medieval period to the present day, Weir delves into the lives, scandals, and power struggles of the various royal dynasties. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, the book offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Britain's most famous family.

The Everything Guide to Online Genealogy by Kimberly Powell is a comprehensive resource for anyone interested in tracing their family history. From creating a family tree to using DNA testing for genealogical research, this book covers everything you need to know about uncovering your roots online. With step-by-step instructions and helpful tips, it's a valuable guide for beginners and experienced genealogists alike.

The Family Tree Guide to DNA Testing and Genetic Genealogy by Blaine T. Bettinger provides a comprehensive overview of how to use DNA testing for genealogical research. It covers the different types of DNA tests available, how to interpret the results, and how to incorporate DNA evidence into your family tree. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your genetic genealogy knowledge, this book is a valuable resource for uncovering your family's history.

Becoming an Accredited Genealogist by Karen Clifford provides a comprehensive guide for individuals looking to pursue a career in genealogy. It covers the necessary steps and requirements for becoming a certified and accredited genealogist, including education, research skills, ethical standards, and practical tips for success. This book is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in turning their passion for family history into a professional endeavor.

Evidence Explained by Elizabeth Shown Mills is a comprehensive guide to citing historical sources and analyzing evidence. It provides clear and practical advice on how to cite a wide range of sources, from archival documents to online resources. This book is essential for anyone conducting historical research and seeking to maintain accuracy and credibility in their work.

The Troubleshooter's Guide to Do-It-Yourself Genealogy by W. Daniel Quillen is a comprehensive book that offers practical advice and strategies for overcoming common challenges in genealogical research. Whether you're hitting a brick wall or struggling with elusive ancestors, this guide provides valuable tips and techniques to help you break through and uncover your family's history.

Unofficial Guide to Ancestry.com by Nancy Hendrickson is a comprehensive resource for anyone looking to trace their family history using the popular genealogy website. Packed with tips, tricks, and step-by-step instructions, this book helps readers navigate Ancestry.com's vast collection of records and build their family tree with ease. From understanding search filters to leveraging DNA testing, this guide is a must-have for uncovering your roots.

Slaves in the Family by Edward Ball is a powerful exploration of the author's own family history in relation to the institution of slavery. Through meticulous research and personal interviews, Ball uncovers the untold stories of the slaves who were owned by his ancestors in South Carolina. This thought-provoking book sheds light on the lasting impact of slavery and the complexities of race relations in America.

Saxons, Vikings, and Celts by Bryan Sykes explores the genetic history of Britain and Ireland, uncovering the ancient roots of its people. Through DNA analysis and historical research, Sykes delves into the migrations and interactions of different ethnic groups, shedding light on the complex and fascinating ancestry of the region.

Tracing Your Irish Ancestors by John Grenham is a comprehensive guide to researching your Irish heritage. It provides practical advice on navigating the unique challenges of Irish genealogy, including the loss of records and the importance of local sources. Whether you're just beginning your search or hitting a brick wall, this book offers valuable insights and resources to help you uncover your family's Irish roots.

The Family Tree Toolkit by Kenyatta D. Berry is a comprehensive guide to researching your family history. It provides step-by-step instructions, tips, and resources to help you uncover your ancestors and build your family tree. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced genealogist, this book equips you with the tools you need to explore your heritage and connect with your roots.

The Stranger in My Genes is a gripping memoir by Bill Griffeth that delves into the author's personal journey of self-discovery. After taking a simple DNA test for genealogical purposes, Griffeth uncovers a shocking truth – his biological father is not who he thought. This revelation sends him on a quest to unravel long-held family secrets and explore the complex interplay of genetics, identity, and the meaning of family.

In Search Of Our Ancestors by Megan Smolenyak is a captivating exploration of genealogy and the remarkable journeys people take to uncover their family history. Through fascinating real-life stories and insightful research, the book reveals the power of understanding our roots and the connections that bind us to our ancestors.

Scottish Genealogy by Bruce Durie is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to trace their Scottish roots. It covers everything from getting started with genealogy research to exploring different types of records and archives specific to Scotland. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced genealogist, this book provides valuable insights and tips to help you uncover your Scottish ancestry.

How to Archive Family Photos by Denise May Levenick provides practical advice on preserving and organizing your family's precious memories. From digitizing old photos to creating a family archive, this book offers step-by-step guidance and valuable tips to ensure that your family photos are protected for future generations.

It's All Relative by A. J. Jacobs explores the interconnectedness of humanity through the lens of genealogy. With humor and insight, Jacobs delves into his own family history and embarks on a global journey to uncover the surprising and often poignant stories that link us all. This thought-provoking book challenges our notions of identity and belonging.

The Genealogy Do-Over Workbook by Thomas MacEntee provides a step-by-step guide for anyone looking to re-evaluate and improve their genealogy research. With practical exercises and tips, this workbook helps you create a solid research plan, organize your findings, and make the most of available resources. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced genealogist, this book will help you take your family history research to the next level.

Albion's Seed: Four British Folkways in America by David Hackett Fischer explores the impact of four distinct British cultural groups – the Puritans, the Cavaliers, the Quakers, and the Scots-Irish – on the formation of American society. Through a deep analysis of their beliefs, customs, and traditions, Fischer uncovers how these early settlers shaped everything from regional dialects to political ideologies, leaving a lasting imprint on the American identity.

Shaking the Family Tree by Buzzy Jackson is a captivating exploration of genealogy and family history. Through her own personal journey, Jackson delves into the world of ancestral research, uncovering surprising and often poignant stories about her relatives. With humor and insight, she examines the ways in which our family trees shape our identities and offers a compelling case for the importance of knowing where we come from.