Roy Emerson Stryker and Nancy Wood. In This Proud Land: America 1935-1943 As Seen In the FSA Photographs. Greenwich: New York Graphic Society, [1973]. First edition, first printing. Quarto. 199 pages.
Although I think this particular book may be out of print, a person probably couldn't really go wrong with any book of FSA photographs. Collectively they are a national treasure. This collection of photographs, taken during the Great Depression, beautifully capture an America that doesn't exist today. Nevertheless, the photographs never become overly sentimental or nostalgic: racial and class divisions are shown, but the results aren't overtly political. Every photographic subject is treated with dignity, regardless of class, gender or race. p.s. - nearly all of these photographs are available for free viewing on the Library of Congress website. Warning! There are nearly 100,000 FSA photographs in all, so navigating can be cumbersome!
My favorite book ever. Stunning Depression - era black and white photographs showing everyday life across America during that trying time. Ironically, this was a government make - work project to provide a creative livelihood for some of America's finest photographers. A treasure that rewards repeated viewing.