"The Story of Spain" by Mark R. Williams is an ideal introduction to one special nation's history and culture. After many years in print in Europe, the second American edition (2009) has been published by Golden Era Books. It features a chapter covering contemporary Spain through 2008, 16 pages of color photos, and listings of top historical "sights and sites" for travelers. "The Story of Spain" is a highly readable one-volume treatment of Hispanic culture and Spain's mercurial history through the centuries. Yet this "popular history" is based on years of scholarly research and is used in many university courses. Professor Emeritus Paul Smith of U.C.L.A. called it: "By far the best introduction for students in English to Spain¿­s history and culture, from its origins to the present day." Williams earned an M.A. in History from the University of California and did further studies at the University of Madrid. He lived in Spain, working as a teacher and journalist, and his articles appeared in the "International Herald Tribune" and many other publications.