CHARLOTTE, ISABELLE, PHYLLIS & SUSAN'S N.Y., N.Y.

Ostensibly intended for newcomers, this is no guide for visiting aunties from Oshkosh unless they're exceptionally well-heeled. The authors--Charlotte Ford, Isabelle Leeds, Phyllis Cerf Wagner, Susan Payson Fine--are inveterate shoppers and unabashed luxury-lovers, and their New York consists largely of the impeccable shops and services (caterers, hair colorists, saddlers) available in a posh 20-block area on the East Side, although addresses outside the pale do appear. The non-consumer suggestions--children's activities, museums--are the usual olio but shopping tips are decidedly the high-priced spread. Need a coat? Only fur sources are listed. Luggage to carry it home? Try Mark Cross or MÄdler. A French bakery? Invest in a croissant at Dumas. Most out-of-towners will find this out of bounds, but residents will enjoy quibbling over inflated choices (Cake Masters--best Sunday bakery) and unconscionable exclusions (Zabar's, Strand bookstore).