In 1912, Arizona was the last of the contiguous states to join the Union. This heavily illustrated, 8.5x10" work, designed for general readers, focuses on Arizona's colorful history and the natural beauty of a state where 80% of the land is set aside as national forests, national and state parks, and wilderness areas. After an opening chapter on the geology and geography of the state, the book offers a chronological historical presentation, from Native American groups though relations with Spain and Mexico, the Wild West, the New Deal, the postwar boom, the space age, and modern Arizona. The book is illustrated with contemporary color photos, b&w historical photos, and color paintings. The bibliography lists books in sections on Apache history, Arizona history, Arizona's indigenous people, geology and geography, Hispanic Arizona, military history, and Tombstone history. Turner is affiliated with the Arizona Humanities Council. Annotation ©2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)