Firmly practical in its approach yet entertaining in its style, this reference guide is the indispensable companion for all who are seeking a reliable, one-source volume to use while tracking down their family origins. The book gives comprehensive guidance on the variety of governmental, religious, and more obsure records available, and also contains highly useful advice on how to expand and reinvigorate a search when the trail runs cold. Tips on using the Internet as both a starting point and a supplement to more traditional searches are especially useful and timesaving.