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Wednesday, July 3, 2024

Top 20 Best-Selling Genealogy and Family History Books

Welcome to our blog, where we embark on a captivating journey through time, exploring the rich tapestry of history and genealogy.  In this edition, we'll delve into the treasure trove of historical news articles dated July 3, unearthing stories that resonate with genealogists and history enthusiasts alike.  From local happenings to global events, we'll uncover the stories that shaped the lives of our ancestors, providing valuable insights for those on a quest to discover their roots.  So, grab your magnifying glass and step into the past as we unravel the July 3 historical headlines that may hold the missing pieces of your family's history puzzle.
    Here are 20 best-selling books on genealogy and family history, ranging from how-to guides to personal narratives that bring history to life:

    "The Family Tree Guide to DNA Testing and Genetic Genealogy" by Blaine T. Bettinger


    This book is an essential resource for anyone looking to incorporate DNA testing into their genealogical research. It explains different types of DNA tests, how they can be used to trace ancestry, and how to interpret the results. Bettinger provides practical advice on choosing the right test, understanding genetic matches, and using DNA to break through genealogical brick walls.

    "Tracing Your Irish Ancestors" by John Grenham


    John Grenham’s book is a comprehensive guide for anyone tracing their Irish heritage. It covers a wide range of sources and strategies specific to Irish genealogy, including civil registration, church records, and census data. The book also offers tips on dealing with common challenges like name variations and record loss.

    "The Genealogist's Companion and Sourcebook" by Emily Anne Croom


    This sourcebook is a go-to reference for genealogists at all levels. Emily Anne Croom provides detailed strategies for researching various types of records, from census data to military records. The book includes numerous checklists and case studies, making it a practical guide for overcoming research obstacles and finding elusive ancestors.

    "Evidence Explained: Citing History Sources from Artifacts to Cyberspace" by Elizabeth Shown Mills


    Elizabeth Shown Mills’ authoritative guide teaches genealogists how to properly cite their sources. It covers a wide array of source types, from traditional documents to digital records, and provides clear examples of citation formats. This book is indispensable for ensuring accuracy and credibility in genealogical research.

    "The Everything Guide to Online Genealogy" by Kimberly Powell


    This guide is perfect for anyone interested in exploring their family history using online resources. Kimberly Powell provides a thorough overview of various genealogy websites, databases, and tools available on the internet. The book includes step-by-step instructions for building a family tree, conducting online searches, and utilizing social media for genealogical purposes.

    "Genealogy Standards" by the Board for Certification of Genealogists


    "Genealogy Standards" outlines the best practices and ethical guidelines for conducting genealogical research. Compiled by the Board for Certification of Genealogists, this book provides standards for documenting sources, analyzing evidence, and presenting findings. It’s an essential resource for both professional and amateur genealogists aiming for high-quality research.

    "Mastering Genealogical Proof" by Thomas W. Jones


    Thomas W. Jones’ workbook helps genealogists develop skills in analyzing and proving genealogical claims. Through exercises and examples, the book teaches readers how to evaluate evidence, resolve conflicting information, and construct well-reasoned conclusions. It’s a practical tool for anyone looking to strengthen their genealogical methodology.

    "Roots: The Saga of an American Family" by Alex Haley


    "Roots" is a landmark work that traces the author’s African American ancestry back to Africa. Alex Haley’s narrative brings to life the struggles and triumphs of his ancestors over generations. The book not only tells a powerful family story but also provides a profound exploration of African American history and identity.

    "Finding Your Roots: The Official Companion to the PBS Series" by Henry Louis Gates Jr.


    This companion book to the PBS series "Finding Your Roots" offers insights into the genealogical journeys of various celebrities featured on the show. Henry Louis Gates Jr. provides a behind-the-scenes look at the research process, along with tips and resources for conducting your own family history search. It’s an inspiring guide for anyone interested in genealogy.

    "The Source: A Guidebook to American Genealogy" by Loretto Dennis Szucs and Sandra Hargreaves Luebking


    "The Source" is a comprehensive reference for American genealogical research. It covers a wide range of topics, including census records, military records, and immigration records. The book also includes contributions from numerous experts, providing detailed guidance on using various sources and overcoming research challenges.

    "Ancestry's Red Book: American State, County & Town Sources" by Alice Eichholz


    This guidebook is a state-by-state resource for genealogical research in the United States. Alice Eichholz provides detailed information on the availability and location of vital records, probate records, and other key sources. The book is an invaluable tool for locating and accessing records across different jurisdictions.

    "The Family Tree Problem Solver" by Marsha Hoffman Rising


    Marsha Hoffman Rising’s book addresses common challenges in genealogical research and offers practical solutions. It covers topics like missing records, name variations, and brick walls, providing strategies for overcoming these obstacles. The book includes case studies and examples to illustrate effective problem-solving techniques.

    "A Field Guide for Genealogists" by Judy Jacobson


    This field guide offers practical tips for conducting genealogical research in various settings, such as archives, libraries, and cemeteries. Judy Jacobson provides advice on planning research trips, organizing findings, and documenting sources. The book is a handy resource for genealogists who enjoy on-site research.

    "Unpuzzling Your Past: A Basic Guide to Genealogy" by Emily Anne Croom


    Emily Anne Croom’s beginner’s guide is perfect for those new to genealogy. It provides a step-by-step approach to starting family history research, including tips on gathering information, organizing findings, and using different types of records. The book is filled with practical advice and examples to help beginners get started on the right foot.

    "The Family Tree Guidebook to Europe" by Allison Dolan


    This guidebook offers country-specific resources and strategies for researching European ancestry. Allison Dolan covers a wide range of European countries, providing information on available records, research facilities, and online resources. It’s a valuable tool for anyone tracing their roots back to Europe.

    "The Genealogy Do-Over Workbook" by Thomas MacEntee


    Thomas MacEntee’s workbook is designed for genealogists who want to restart their research from scratch. The book provides a structured plan for reviewing and redoing genealogical research, focusing on best practices and accurate documentation. It’s a helpful resource for improving and refining research techniques.

    "The Sleuth Book for Genealogists" by Emily Anne Croom


    This book offers techniques for solving genealogical mysteries and uncovering hidden family history. Emily Anne Croom provides strategies for analyzing records, piecing together evidence, and making connections. The book includes numerous examples and case studies, making it a practical guide for detective work in genealogy.

    "Hey, America, Your Roots Are Showing: Adventures in Discovering News-Making Connections, Unexpected Ancestors, Long-Hidden Secrets, and Solving Historical Puzzles" by Megan Smolenyak


    Megan Smolenyak shares fascinating stories from her career as a professional genealogist. The book includes accounts of uncovering surprising connections, solving historical puzzles, and discovering long-hidden secrets. It’s an engaging and entertaining read for anyone interested in genealogy and family history.

    "Who Do You Think You Are? The Essential Guide to Tracing Your Family History" by Megan Smolenyak


    This companion to the popular TV series "Who Do You Think You Are?" offers practical tips for tracing your family history. Megan Smolenyak provides guidance on using various records, conducting interviews, and utilizing online resources. The book is filled with inspiring stories and helpful advice for genealogists of all levels.

    "They Came in Ships: A Guide to Finding Your Immigrant Ancestor's Arrival Record" by John P. Colletta


    John P. Colletta’s book is a comprehensive guide to researching immigration records. It provides strategies for locating and interpreting passenger lists, naturalization records, and other documents related to immigrant ancestors. The book includes detailed case studies and practical tips, making it an essential resource for tracing immigrant roots.

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