Preservation Hall: Music From the Heart (1991)

Since 1961, Preservation Hall in the French Quarter of New Orleans has been a living museum devoted to the first school of jazz. In his book, Preservation Hall, author-photographer William Carter has lovingly detailed the history of the hall, its touring ambassadors — such as Jim Robinson, Sweet Emma Barrett, and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band — and the warm, brassy style of music spawned by the Crescent City. The numerous pictures and anecdotal text are as rich and flavorful as a good jambalaya. B+