This volume, shaped to fit nicely in the rear pocket of an automobile seat, presents a history of California, structured around themes, events and peoples of this diverse state from its founding to the present. Topics discussed include first peoples, Spanish and American emigration, gold and the financial fortunes of the region, race and politics, modern political and social movements and life and work in the Golden State. The volume includes numerous color photographs and maps as well as sections providing lists of attractions, museums, seasonal events and cultural happenings. Silverman is a film maker and historian at Pomona College and Glover is a poet teaching at the University of California, Davis. Annotation ©2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)