The Beginner's Guide To German Genealogical Research compiled by Fredrick H. Barth & Kenneth F. Thomsen

The degree of difficulty you may have with your German research often depends on the amount of basic information you have accumulated before searching the original German records. The Gothic handwriting, which was used extensively in German records can be very imtimidating and hard for beginners to understand.  You will find the first steps outlined in this guide very helpful in getting started, along with the sample letters of the Gothic handwriting. This guide is designed to help you understand that German records are not as difficult as they seem. With a little practice you will soon be able to understand the most common terms. The inexpensive price makes this guide perfect for anyone getting started with their German genealogy.