This book is a great read for history enthusiasts. You can start by flipping through the fold - out map to get a better sense of the historical context. When handling the book, be gentle as the cover and spine are worn. Since the map has a few minor tears, don't bend it too much. To keep the book in good condition, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid getting the pages wet as they are already discolored from age. If you want to take notes, use a bookmark instead of folding the pages.