Top 5 Genealogy Books for Beginners

Whether you are just beginning to explore your family history or are well on your way, this book will become a staple. Professional genealogists Christine Rose and Kay Ingalls have covered just about every aspect of genealogical research in an easy-to-read, conversational manner, while still stressing the right way of doing things.

From family interviews and cemetery records to making use of technology and planning a research trip, George Morgan provides nearly 500 pages of well-written advice on researching family history. The book is highly readable, and numerous examples make it easy to apply the methods to your own family search. The perfect choice for anyone who wants just one book.

This essential genealogy book by best-selling genealogy author, Emily Anne Croom, presents a no-nonsense look at the entire family history research process. Packed full of useful forms and examples which bring her words to life and will help you apply the information to your own family research.

This book covers all of the required beginner topics, but also goes beyond the basic information by encouraging new genealogists to learn through participation in the larger genealogical community, including genealogical societies, classes, and conferences. Author Sharon DeBartolo Carmack uses many case studies and examples which make it easy to apply her instruction to your own research.

Well organized and easy-to-read, this genealogy book by Pat Richley, a.k.a. DearMYRTLE, is perfect for the impatient beginner who wants to use the Internet to find their family tree. It provides a brief overview of important genealogy research basics, from record types to microfilm; covers important computer skills, such as message board etiquette; and highlights major genealogy Web sites.