April 2023 MBR The Genealogy Shelf

The Genealogy Shelf

Generation by Generation
Drew Smith
Genealogical Publishing Company
3600 Clipper Mill Road, Suite 229, Baltimore, MD 21211
www.genealogical.com
9780806321271, $29.95, PB, 178pp

https://www.amazon.com/Generation-Modern-Approach-Basics-Genealogy/dp/080632127X

Synopsis: With the publication of "Generation by Generation: A Modern Approach to the Basics of Genealogy", Drew Smith has presents the actual processes used in contemporary genealogical research: Start with yourself, then move on to living family and relatives, and then move backwards in time, generation by generation. Each individual chapter describes a time period and the kinds of records available for that era, allowing beginners to learn about new types of records just as they need them.

This informative 'how-to' guide is divided into two parts. Part I discusses such things as relationships between family members, naming practices, genealogy software, how to review existing research, and the basics of DNA testing. Part II begins with a discussion of the major genealogy websites, and then explains the most important record categories for all generations from the present day back to the colonial ea. There are also chapters devoted to searching for the origins of American families in the records of Canada, Great Britain, Ireland, and non-English-speaking nations.

"Generation by Generation: A Modern Approach to the Basics of Genealogy" makes ample use of consecutive Internet screen shots to take the mystery out of online searching. Of special not is that it is written by an expert genealogist and teacher who is equally conversant with traditional search methods and the digital world.

Critique: An ideal instructional resource for those new to genealogical research, and with a great deal of relevance and value for the more experienced genealogists, "Generation by Generation: A Modern Approach to the Basics of Genealogy" must be considered an essential, core addition to personal, professional, community, college, and university library Genealogy Research collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.

Editorial Note: Drew Smith and his partner George G. Morgan have been podcasting about genealogy since September 2005, when they launched The Genealogy Guys Podcast (http://genealogyguys.com). Each episode includes the latest news from genealogical companies and organizations, listener email, and other content, such as book reviews and brief interviews.

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