Route 66 was a road of dreamers, ramblers, drifters, and writers. Some never reached California. Often, they settled along the road, building restaurants, tourist attractions, gas stations, and motels. The architecture of each structure reflected regional building traditions and the difficulties of the times. Route 66 was ice cream stands, old motels, and salty truck stops; Phillips 66, Coca Cola, and Burma-Shave.

And it quickly became part of the American Dream, generating its own myths and romance and inspiring scores of novelists, poets, artists, moviemakers, and songwriters to weave its image into their work. This 2,400-mile stretch of interstate runs across eight states and straight through the American psyche.

Route 66 was decertified in the 80's and has ceased to exist as far as the Federal Highway System is concerned. Whole segments are disappearing.

Over a dozen different books deal with the Route 66 experience. Some are travel guides, some folk histories, others nostalgic rambles down what was and what's left along the Mother Road. Photoessays document the rapidly disappearing architecture and signs. Cookbooks catalog the recipes of dishes served in cafes along the route. Along with this feast of information are a number of videos, music cassettes and CD's. All are available at The Savvy Traveller.