Superdove: How the Pigeons Took Manhattan...and the World, by Courtney Humphries (Collins, 2007, $29.95). The fascinating story, including evolutionary and cultural history, of that often reviled yet vastly misunderstood creature—the pigeon.

America’s Hidden History, by Kenneth C. Davis (Collins, 2008, $31.95). In this dazzling new book, one of the country’s most popular historians illuminates some of the “hidden history” that schoolbooks leave out, such as the identity of the real first Pilgrims to America and the little-known story of George Washington as a headstrong young soldier.

How the States Got Their Shapes, by Mark Stein (Collins, 2008, $23.50). In a light, accessible style, the author deciphers the mysteries of the American map, state by state and border by border. Packed with fun oddities and trivia.

Smithsonian Field Guide to the Birds of North America, by Ted Floyd (Collins, 2008, $28.95). An authoritative text from the world’s foremost birding expert, this astonishing paperback resets the bar for birding guides, with more than 2,500 color photographs, 730 new color maps and information on 730 North American species.

Glorious Mud! Ancient and Contemporary Earthen Design and Construction in North Africa, Western Europe, the Near East, and Southwest Asia, by Gus Van Beek with Ora Van Beek (Smithsonian Institution Scholarly Press, 2007, $99.95). Van Beek, a curator in the Anthropology Department of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, explores the history, characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of earthen construction.

A Tribute to Gonzalo Asencio, “Tío Tom” (Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, 2008, $15). This singing and all-percussion tribute to the late “street hero” Tío Tom boasts the all-star line-up of Conjunto Todo Rumbero, led by renowned drummer Orlando “Puntilla” Ríos.

Tony Trischka Territory (Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, 2008, $15). One of the most innovative and respected musicians in his field, Tony Trischka showcases the banjo and its rich history using spectacular technique and demonstrating a wide array of influences.

La India Canela: Merengue Típico from the Dominican Republic (Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, 2008, $15). An unparalleled collection celebrating the traditional style of merengue music integral to Dominican culture, featuring performances by premier accord- ionist La India Canela.

Classic African American Gospel from Smithsonian Folkways (Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, 2008, $15). Spirituals, guitar evangelists, “shout” bands, quartets and choirs sing out the sacred sounds of African American gospel music in select recordings spanning more than a half-century.

Books listed on pages 14 and 15 can be ordered through online book vendors or purchased in bookstores nationwide.

Recordings can be ordered from Smithsonian Folkways Mail Order, Smithsonian Folkways Recordings Dept. 0607, Washington, D.C. 20073-0607. To order by phone, call (800) 410-9815 or (202) 275-1143.