A well-researched book can provide an excellent window into a particular geographical area's history, culture, attractions, and its people. Not surprisingly, Insight Guides New England guidebook effectively synthesizes an understanding of the culture, history, institutions and people of this rich region.

A look at what the book offers will assure you that you will not be disappointed with its contents. Commencing with the chapter entitled America's Attic, the guide book exposes how the traditions of Old England were blended with the New World's values creating six distinctive states, each with its own character.

Drawing upon the vast knowledge of the book's contributors, these six states, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, are more fully explored providing the reader with a better sense of place and understanding of their distinctness.

In addition, there is an entire chapter devoted uniquely to Boston, its history, diverse neighborhoods, attractions, and daytrips you can enjoy if your home base is here.

Fascinating tidbits pertaining to such "must see" attractions as Newport Rhode Island's "Gilded Age" Mansions, Old Sturbridge Village, Hancock Shaker Village, Harvard University, Mystic Seaport, Quincy Market, Tanglewood, Yale University, and Gillette Castle, are scattered throughout the book.

In addition, the book contains useful tips that will enhance your visits to New England. Did you know that North Conway's outlet shops are especially attractive because New Hampshire has not sales tax? However, you are also cautioned that this commercial strip is prone to bottlenecks. From my personal experience, this is advice well taken.

If you are visiting the White Mountain region you might want to take a boat trip on Squam Lake, the setting for the movie On Golden Pond.

The back flap of the book contains an index pointing out the page numbers that will immediately provide information about getting acquainted, planning the trip, practical tips, getting around, where to stay, and activities. The front flap of the book indexes the main cities, popular attractions, heritage sites museums, alluring islands, waterside venues, and the principal maps.

Best of all are the well-selected photographs of places and people enliven every page. These photos are a visual delight - stunning, superb, clear and sharp of the highest quality depicting scenes of amazing color and beauty. Just look at the image of the quintessential fall when you first open the book - a scene that would be worthy to a shortlist of the Audubon Society calendar.

As in all of the Insight Guides, the main places of interest in the Places section are coordinated by number with a full-color map and a symbol at the top of every right-hand page telling the reader where to find the map.

Beyond doubt, this guidebook will prove to be a feast for eye and spirit for those interested in traveling to the New England States.