Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on
bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
New Mexico, A History
by Joseph P. Sanchez
This cooperative effort between three native New Mexicans is the first complete history of New Mexico. It charts the state’s development from 16th-century Spanish colony to frontier province, from its 1912 American statehood to a hub of (often classified) scientific research. A vital source for anyone seeking to understand the complex history of the West.
New Mexico Wildlife, An Introduction to Familiar Species
by James Kavanagh
A handy fold-up card featuring color illustrations of common plants, animals and reptiles of New Mexico.
A Field Guide to Western Reptiles and Amphibians
by Robert Stebbins
The definitive field guide, with a special section on Baja's endemic species.
Dark Beauty, Photographs of New Mexico
by Jack Parsons
Southwest photographer Parsons presents the rugged landscapes and the people of New Mexico, exploring religious iconography, far-flung ranches, small towns and wide open spaces in this full-color coffee table book.
The Spanish Frontier in North America
by David Weber
Here's the definitive history of the Spanish colonial period in America, from the settlement of St. Augustine in Florida to the missions of New Mexico.
Desert Solitaire
by Edward Abbey
One of the great works on the value of the desert, eloquent and laugh-out-loud funny. Although Abbey writes specifically about his experiences as a ranger at Arches National Park outside Moab, Utah, his message is universal.
Out of This World: New Mexico's Contributions to Space Travel
by Loretta Hall
Beginning with Robert Goddard’s efforts in Roswell, Hall covers 80 years of innovative rocket science research in New Mexico, including the Manhattan Project, the White Sands Missile Range and the Holloman Air Force Base.
Great River, The Rio Grande in North American History
by Paul Horgan
First published in 1954, this classic book won both the Bancroft and the Pulitzer Prizes for history.
The Spell of New Mexico
by Tony Hillerman (Editor)
A selection of 12 thoughtful essays on the New Mexico state of mind by great writers, including C.G. Jung, Mary Austin, D.H. Lawrence and Lawrence Clark Powell. Hillerman succeeds in communicating the lure of the desert Southwest in this wonderful, literate introduction to the state.
The Last Cheater's Waltz, Beauty and Violence in the Desert Southwest
by Ellen Meloy
A naturalist's travels through the desert Southwest of her youth, reflecting on native peoples, landscape and ecology. Meloy explores Los Alamos, Trinity National Historic Landmark, and White Sands Missile Range -- including the impact of the laboratory and bomb testing on the environment.
Dreamland: Travels Inside the Secret World of Roswell and Area 51
by Phil Patton
Recounts the history, creation, intelligence and counter-intelligence of Area 51, a section of the American southwestern desert where top-secret aircraft is tested and where some believe the Pentagon is harboring UFOs and extraterrestrials.
The Southwest Table, Traditional Cuisine from Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona
by Dave DeWitt
Expert on chili peppers and spicy foods, Dave DeWitt (aka "the Pope of Peppers") blends Southwestern culinary history with 130 authentic recipes and cooking techniques in this tantalizing collection of fiery, flavorful dishes from Texas, New Mexico and Arizona.
