mkfarm - let me know which book you would like to have:

100 Greatest American Stamps
Janet Klug & Donald J. Sundman 132 pages, color, hardbound. A fully illustrated in color book of America's 100 greatest stamps. Includes market values, price histories, and commentary.
OR

Encyclopedia of United States Stamps and Stamp Collecting
Rodney A. Juell & Steven J. Rod. This book is called the "Bargain of the Century" by Linn's Stamp News, this remarkable resource succinctly reviews U.S. philately while providing tips for the novice. 62 chapters and 4 appendices include U.S. stamps, history, production, and technology. 730 pages hardbound in full color.