For some 1945 era New Orleans cuisine, item G124 is Dining in New Orleans, by Scoop Kennedy. Kennedy noted, "It is almost impossible to get a really bad meal in New Orleans." More recently, it was nearly impossible to get any kind of meal in New Orleans, such was that city's unfortunate fate. We hear it's on the rebound now and you can again get a traditional meal, but probably not too many of the restaurants reviewed in this book are still around. $1,200.

What could be better in keeping with the festive spirit than a signed book from the always cheerful Richard Nixon? His 1982 book was entitled Leaders, where he recalls and evaluates various national leaders of his time. While this book would undoubtedly be welcomed by anyone, it would be especially nice for someone named "Jeff," as it is inscribed "To Jeff with best wishes from Richard Nixon." Item G158. $600. There are also inscribed books available from Presidents Eisenhower, Carter and Clinton, just in case Nixon isn't your favorite.

You don't have to be able read to appreciate photographer Richard Avedon's portrait of Nastassia Kinski, dressed only in a snake. This is a classic portrait, and we could make all kinds of comments about it, but we will allow you to make your own. This photograph is signed by the photographer. Item G18. $2,200.

Mickey Mantle was at the height of his New York Yankee career when he co-wrote with Ben Epstein The Mickey Mantle Story. In 1956, when this book was published, he swept baseball's triple crown (batting average, home runs, and runs batted in), not just for the American League, but for all of baseball. The feat has not been repeated since. His was a dream world, or at least that is how it appeared on the surface. Later, it would be revealed that he had a terrible alcohol problem and Mantle died at the age of just 63. He would go on to describe himself as a role model, a model of what not to do with your life. Nevertheless his baseball career remains a legend and Mantle a beloved figure from his original home of Oklahoma to his adopted home in New York. Item G25. $3,500.

Bauman Rare Books may be found online at www.BaumanRareBooks.com, telephone 215-546-6466.