National Geographic: Around the World in 125 Years: Africa Hardcover – June 25, 2018

No question this is the definitive work on the National Geographic Magazine. For those of us who have enjoyed this publication over the years this is a dream come true. The editors of this work had a mind-boggling task ahead of them in deciding what to include in these three massive volumes. With literally millions upon millions of photographs to consider I don't know how they arrived at their final selections. This set comprises 1500 pages and it could have easily contained twice that and still have left out many of our favorite images.A large number of the photographs are recognizably iconic images that have been included in other works devoted to the magazine. But never have they been produced in such a large format and with such stunning clarity. I was particularly pleased to see so many of the older images included. Doing so really gives the reader a sense of the formidable history of this legendary journal. There really is no publication, today, that is treasured like the National Geographic. I can't think of one that is collected to the degree that it is. Having been in the used book trade for a number of years I can't count the collections I have seen lovingly preserved by their owners. I have, myself, a complete run of this magazine dating back to 1910 and a full set of maps starting in 1935. I never tire of perusing those back issues.The production quality of this set is absolutely top notch. The binding material is identical to that of the slipcases and has a very sumptuous textured feel. The books are well constructed, tightly bound and attractively designed. The three volumes even come in their own attractively illustrated storage container. National Geographic was well advised in partnering with Taschen on this project as few publishers can match their experience and success in these monumental projects.This set should appeal to any serious National Geographic enthusiast, or lover of great photography, and is a must have for every institutional library. For the individual the price represents a sizable investment. But these are books that were designed to offer many years of viewing enjoyment and will assuredly open the world up to you and your entire family.

Absolutely marvelous! Am amazing collection of historical photographs taken of places around the world, many of which don't exist any more or have changed so much as to be almost unrecognizable today. I gave the set to young parents who just had their first baby. They were awe-struck, said it will be used to educate their children, and be guarded as a keepsake forever in the family.

Gutenberg would be proud that the printing press can compete with a 60-inch 4K HDTV. Photography's art is beautifully evident in this collection. I would love to see this on the HDTV, but it was a compelling experience to turn the pages and pause on the reflected glow, something projected glow can't duplicate (yet).Also, very good exercise for the arms.

I was very happy with the packing & shipping. Arrived on time. Books are beyond wonder. They are worth every penny I spent. I'm planning on spending a lot of time talking about the the pictures & how they were acquired!! Wonderful!

I am overwhelmed with joy after spending just one afternoon with this truly exceptional book set. I have never seen more moving pictures in one book. The quality of the printing of the photographs is just superb and the amazing covers that turn into robust book stands ( you have to see these in person to understand what Taschen has created). My prediction is these expensive books will double in market value as soon as the 125,000 copies are sold). Yes they are expensive but you will not regret buying them.

Absolutely beautiful pictures and text. This book was exactly what I was hoping for a coffee table book that could start and sustain conversations. 100% satisfied.

I was a bit disappointed after reading glorious reviews. The pictures are nice, but not of HD quality, and so is the paper. In addition, the dimensions of the books given by Amazon are NOT the dimensions of the books, but the dimensions of the entire package. True dimensions of each book are 16" x 11.5" x 2, and each book weighs 12 lbs.

Very large coffee table books! Each has a storage cover that also converts to a support while the book is open to avoid damaging the book. Pictures are fantastic, just as we've come to expect from NG.