“The Alabama Guide: Our People, Resources, and Government is a humdinger and ought to be on a book shelf in every home in the state,” says Alvin Benn in his January 13, 2010 Montgomery Advertiser column. NewSouth Books Editor-in-Chief Randall Williams coordinated and designed the over 700-page Alabama Guide in association with the Alabama Department of Archives and History.
“This is the most informative overview of Alabama in one place that I’ve ever seen,” Archives Director Ed Bridges told Benn. “Randall took a technical, complex presentation and translated it into something readable and interesting.” Benn goes on to note that Bridges “credits Williams with helping to produce something that has drawn such a positive reception from the public. Williams designed the cover and handled many other duties as he worked to complete the project.”
The Alabama Guide contains numerous charts, maps, and photographs; complete listings of state agencies, courts, and legislators; and a 133-page “Historical Alabama” section written by Bridges. The book is available from your favorite local bookstore or Amazon.com; Benn notes that future printings are planned.