Book excerpt: Few names evoke scenes of such breathtaking natural beauty as does that of the Ozarks. In Images of the Ozarks, this splendor is captured in a stunning collection of more than 120 full-color photographs. These images, chosen from hundreds of photographs submitted by both professional and amateur photographers, showcase virtually the entire Ozark region--Missouri, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. Spectacular river bluffs and rock formations, crystal-clear streams and lakes, beautiful waterfalls, historic covered bridges and mills, and wildlife are just some of the exquisite scenes pictured in this book. Charlie Farmer's introduction to the volume provides valuable background information on the Ozark region and its unique terrain. He also discusses the various measures that concerned individuals have undertaken since the early 1930s to protect the Ozark environment, as well as the necessity for continuing preservation efforts. Images of the Ozarks is a gift book for all seasons and for all people. Anyone with a love of natural beauty will delight in this wonderful new addition to the Images of Missouri Series.