Is a Slate Roof Right for Your Home?

Slated: Joseph Jenkins' "The Slate Roof Bible" (Jenkins Publishing).

Rock on: Some people obsess on cars, others on shoes. Joseph Jenkins' mania is slate, especially when it ends up topping your house. This 287-page book, jammed with upkeep tips and historical facts, intrigues because of the author's far-reaching fascination.

"The Slate Roof Bible" concedes that there are relatively few California buildings with quarried slate; most are back East, where slate shingles have been commonly used since before the American Revolution.

Jenkins excels at reminding us of an earlier time and how, through the upkeep of old slate roofs, we can preserve the past.

Even though slate may seem impractical, the book impresses with its many black-and-white photos of historic buildings, both here and in Europe, that incorporate this "ancient and noble rock" in their design.

Also, Keeping It Dry for Water-Conscious Gardeners

Fulcrum Publishing has "Xeriscape Color Guide: 100 Water-Wise Plants for Gardens and Landscapes," its 72-page companion to the earlier "Xeriscape Plant Guide."

The latest book is aimed at areas like Southern California that have dry climates. Trees, shrubs, perennials, vines and grasses (along with illustrations, water charts and color-coding for easy identification) are listed, making it easy to find the most water-stingy plants.