Coffee table books fun for more than just java drinkers

When people hear the term "coffee table book," it's often code for "do not touch"; more and more, however, these books are becoming interactive, and they're not just for adults anymore. Below are a few excellent examples for not only the young at heart but also those slight of age.

"THE PEANUTS COLLECTION: Treasures from the World's Most Beloved Comic Strip," by Nat Gertler, Little, Brown and Company, $35 (nf)

Who doesn't love Peanuts? Charlie Brown and his friends are known the world over. In addition to the classic comic strip, there are TV specials, cards, books and even a Broadway musical dedicated to the beloved characters.

"The Peanuts Collection: Treasures from the World's Most Beloved Comic Strip," celebrates the 60th anniversary of these lovable youths. And it starts from the very beginning.

Included are sections on Charles M. Shultz, the creator of Peanuts, characters like Linus, Lucy and, of course, Charlie Brown, advertising, seasons, music and Peanuts influence on culture as a whole.

As you flip through the pages, it becomes clear the amount of research and time that were put into this intricate book. From the high-quality reproductions of original sketches, comics and photographs to the removable film cells, stickers and booklets, the attention to detail is impressive. There are even reproduction prints of Peanuts artwork ready for framing.

With quotes from the Schulz family and elements from throughout Peanuts' 60 years, this interactive book is one that fans new and old won't want to put down.

"THE ART OF MAYNARD DIXON," by Donald J. Hagerty, Gibbs Smith, $75 (nf)

When you open "The Art of Maynard Dixon," by Donald Hagerty, it's the art, not the words, that draw you in. But that's to be expected.

Dixon's vibrant pictures of the West are visually arresting. His work is at times a loose interpretation, yet the places and people are familiar and welcoming.

Dixon, who lived from 1875-1946, is best known for his majestic Western landscapes and depiction of Native Americans. From 1900 until his death, the artist immersed himself within the American West's physical and cultural landscapes and, in the process, presented a new way of looking at the world.

It's after the initial thumb-through that participants are drawn into the accompanying text, wanting to learn more about the man and subjects behind the art.