The most fun you'll ever have learning about antiques, from the man the Philadelphia Daily News has called "the godfather of Cape May County antiquing," can be found in The Antique Story Book: Finding the Real Value of Old Things . From his columns, lectures, and classes on antiques, author Arthur Schwerdt, a certified appraiser and dealer for nearly a quarter of a century, shares some of his favorite stories-the ones that make antiques so fascinating to so many people.

In "Love and Sex-Victorian Style," Schwerdt tells how he learns about intimacy in that era and wonders what future antique hunters will learn about our sexuality. "The Mysterious Creator(s) of Nancy Drew" discusses the identity of the man who conceptualized Nancy Drew and her character's influence on future literature. Most importantly, Schwerdt divulges the most enjoyable, valuable, and meaningful aspect of antiquing-the stories behind each treasure.

Long ago, every item in today's antique shops existed as a product of its time. The Antique Story Book makes these items come alive again, making astute antique-lovers of us all.