The aim of this reference is to present a representative but detailed sample of American folk art spanning three centuries. Editor Wertkin has been director of the American folk Art Museum in New York City since 1991, and for this reference has marshalled the efforts of a long list of contributors among them museum curators, art historians, folk art scholars, and collectors with various special interests. Entries cover three broad areas: people, institutions, and subjects of topical interest. They are organized alphabetically and are extensively cross-referenced; each includes a bibliography. The text is sprinkled with b&w illustrations, and four generous sections of excellent color plates represent a varied selection of folk arts ranging from mid-17th century gravestone carvings to contemporary paintings. Distribution is by Taylor & Francis. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)