The Everything Online Genealogy Book

Or "Rednecks, Little Old Ladies and Online Research"

by Uncle Hiram

Hi Yall. I don't know about Yall but the amazing growth of online genealogy at times has me so confused I gotta check my drivers license to make sure I aint Cousin Tyrel. I know I have spent the last few years giving Yall suggestions and tips but to be honest I am just trying to learn along with the rest of you.

One of the Key tools I use in my never ending quest for research is DearMyrtle's Column (Yes, a free plug), and her new book "The Everything Online Genealogy Book". She not only explains why you would want to do your family tree but she lays down the basic methods for doing it with an online flair.

In chapter one she lays down some very basic rules of email genealogy and the do's and don'ts (Remind me later to steal this from her -- Just Kidding).

Chapter two deals with search engines. I know, I know you are sitting there thinking you know how to run a search engine. I thought the same thang, till I read the chapter and learned how to refine my search. I guess you can teach an old dog new tricks.

Chapter three gives a very good description of some of the online sites available. She gives a great overview of the sites although I want to point out she left out three of my favorite sites:

1. GenealogyToday.com
2. StateGenSites.com
3. Genealogy.About.com

Chapter four gives explanations about what vital records are and where you can get them. A very important thing to know, 'specially if you are forgetful like me.

Chapter five tackles the super indexes like FamilySearch and IGI. The rest of the book tackles going to the library, cyber communities, mailing lists and The family Home page.

Now lets look at the key questions we need to ask about any genealogy book we consider spending our beef jerky and Dr Pepper money on.

1. Readability - DearMyrtle writes in a very understandable style. It's not my style, (Not enough jokes), but it is easy to follow and entertaining.

2. Subject Coverage - She is all over this subject like butter on a hot biscuit. Seriously, she does an excellent job of covering the basics of online genealogy.

3. Price - $12.95 available in most good book stores or online thru Amazon.com

Overall I would strongly recommend this book for anyone new to Genealogy, Online Genealogy or anyone that gets confused a lot (like me).

- Adios and Keep Smiling!

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