As an amature collector of Staffordshire Figures, I was looking for an inexpensive book to help with my collecting. In the City where I live, one can rarely find Staffordshire figures for sale. I started collecting on ebay and through that site I ran across Miller's book that Kit Harding and A. & N. Harding, who listed Staffordshire figures, consulted in writing. I cannot say enough good things about this book for the novice such as myself. It was a great quick reference book. The descriptions of the figures and excellent color photos helped me with the basic knowledge of the figures. This book listed prices and what factors to look for in distinguishing the authentic from fake. I highly recommend this book for any serious collector.

Don't believe the hype about this book. The cover blurbs would have you believe that Kit Miller, a working-class hero, somehow penetrated the ruthless security of Nevada casinos to tell the stories of those down-trodden by the evil gambling empires. In reality, Kit Miller comes from a wealthy family, and she had little difficulty gaining access to the casinos. To her credit, Miller sets aside her liberal political heritage, and presents her subjects' stories in a highly readable manner, free of ideological slant. Her subjects are no more exploited than any other working persons, and their employers are no more evil than those outside the gaming industry. This is, however, a well-done book, and although Miller's main credit is as the photographer, she is a deft writer. It's just not the book you might expect from reading the ham-handed back-cover blurb.

As a former casino worker I can attest to the veracity of this wonderful book. I also know what a difficult task it had to have been for the photographer to gain access inside the glitter. Casino workers are an increasing portion of the working class in the United States, but are nearly invisible. This book vividly portrays their work and lives, and makes clear that the job is not the totality of a working person's life and with other opportunities in a more just societies these same people might be scientists and professors, writers and film directors, senators and govenors.

As new teacher I found this selection very valuable. It helped me to organize thoughtful and exciting Literature Circles for my Gifted and Talented students.