Lionel: America's Favorite Toy Trains - By Gerrey & Janet Souter.

This 10 x 10," 160-page hardcover tells the story of inventor Joshua Lionel Cowen who first devised a battery-powered train to help toy shop owners dress up their window displays in 1900. This colorful history follows the world's most famous toy trains as they survive the Great Depression, bask in the height of their popularity during the 1950s and '60s, and weather several changes of ownership in the 1970s and '80s. Lionel's trains are richly illustrated with specially commissioned studio photography totaling 150 color and 50 black & white photographs, archival imagery and nostalgic print ads. Also discussed are the business and marketing decisions, electrical innovations, durable constructions and accessories upon which Lionel built its following.

Price: $29.95.