Book excerpt: Mollie Helen McCain is one of America's recognized authorities on pattern glass. Her other books on the market, as well as her first edition of this book, have been very successful, and this new edition will be no exception. This large comprehensive volume contains hundreds of illustrations of patterns and a complete pricing system for thousands of pieces of pattern glass. Designed for ease in identification of early American glass, this book presents patterns according to molded characteristics -- circles, stars, plants, flowers, etc. -- so that collectors who don't know pattern names can easily locate pieces. All known names for patterns are given, and all patterns have been cross-indexed for the reader's convenience. In addition, lists of other books of patterns are provided. The book is divided into sections, including animals, circles, diamonds, facets, flowers, fruit, hobnails & beads, panels, people, plants, ribs & columns, squares & rectangles, shells, odds & ends. Pattern glass collectors must add this inclusive new guide to their bookshelves.