The Ford Motor Company has sold more than 8 million Mustangs since the original pony car rolled out in the spring of 1964, and author John M. Clor—journalist-turned-Ford insider—captures every shining moment in The Mustang Dynasty ($24.95). The 160-page book showcases all 44 years of the model’s history in chronological order, starting with the uphill battle of manufacturing a car that was conceived as a poor man’s Thunderbird and ending with a detailed account of the most powerful factory Mustang ever produced: the Shelby GT500.

While the 150 images sourced from the Ford archives and hard-core enthusiasts are visually pleasing, the enclosed memorabilia is the most unique aspect of this manuscript. Reproductions of a 1965 owner’s manual and a "20th Anniversary" event invitation from Ford are among the 15 removable artifacts. A Mustang soundtrack also accompanies the hardback, so you can listen to the roar of your favorite V-8 while perusing the pages dedicated to America’s favorite pony.

Chronicle Books, 800.722.6657, www.chroniclebooks.com