Congratulations are in order to Mark Twain Forum member, R. Kent Rasmussen ([log in to unmask]): American Library Association Names _Mark Twain A to Z_ An Outstanding Reference Source. The Reference Sources Committee of the American Library Association announced in the May 1, 1996 issue of _Booklist_ that _Mark Twain A to Z_ by R. Kent Rasmussen has been named an "Outstanding Reference Source" in its 1996 "Selection of Recent Titles." In her article describing the selection process, ALA's Reference Sources Chair, Shirley A. Maul explained, "At a recent ALA preconference reference workshop, participants were told annual reference publications alone are estimated at 15,000, not counting electronic resources . . . At ALA's Midwinter Meeting in San Antonio, the Reference Sources Committee evaluated those sources and decided which of the some one hundred-plus nominees would make the final list." _Mark Twain A to Z_ was among a group of thirty distinguished reference works so honored. Rasmussen's "Essential Reference" shares the spotlight with such notable editions as _The Cambridge Encyclopedia of the English Language_ as well as several of Oxford University Press's "Companions" and "Encyclopedias". In the capsule review of Rasmussen's book, the committee wrote: "'Essential' is the word for it! _Mark Twain A to Z_ is comprised of nearly 1,300 entries on almost every aspect of the author's life and writings. Here one finds detailed information on each of his works, including chapter-by-chapter synopses for major pieces, plus word counts, publishing histories, screen adaptations, information on manuscripts, and much more. The places Twain lived and visited, people he knew, steamboats he piloted, and other important elements of his life are thoroughly covered. Over 130 illustrations including many interesting and unusual photographs. Special features including a map, "Mark Twain in America," and a very handy chronology of his life. Libraries of all types will want this authoritative and attractive source." ~~~~~ K.B.