Some "must have" references for my modeling are:

How to Build Dioramas, by Sheperd Paine. It's a great book for the beginner and has been around for years. I still refer to it many times for everything from figure painting to making your own shadow box scene! Shep is still an inspiration to many modelers around the world. I learned how to do my first dioramas by reading his book cover to cover over and over.

Panzer Tactics, by Chris Mrosko. This book is great! The author is one of the gents who taught me how to paint armor and this book has very clear steps to make some great armor models. The photo quality and important lessons is top notch! I HIGHLY recommend this book which is available from the VLS Corporation.

Military Miniatures In Review, magazine by Ampersand Publishing Company. I wait for this magazine in my mailbox like the swimsuit edition of Sports Illustrated! If you are a serious armor modeler then you have to subscribe to this magazine. The models will make you drool and it has loads of information like how-to articles and new products. Simply put, it rocks!

Historical Miniature, magazine by R&K Productions. The top figure painters and sculptors in the world contribute to this magazine. You will simply be amazed at the work they display in this publication. It has beginning classes to the most advanced techniques. If I had to pick just one figure magazine then this one wins hands down! I never miss an issue.

FineScale Modeler, magazine by Kalmbach Publishing. Most of you guys know this magazine but I really like it. I like it because it has all types and levels of modelers in this magazine. From the beginner to the expert you can usually learn a trick or two from reading the articles.

There are tons of other references but those are the top five I'd pick if I were on a deserted island. Of course I don't know what the hell models would be doing on the deserted island but you get the idea.