Many people who don't run marathons or need a GPS on their Asics probably pigeonhole Runner's World as a niche offering -- a publication slotted in the newsstand next to Sport Fishing. A quick glance at RW's December issue may not dissuade them. For example, blurbs exclaim that beet juice increases nitrate levels and builds endurance. But give the mag a 26.2-mile examination, and it becomes clear: Runner's World does an admirable job of serving as both an enthusiast and general-interest publication.

Earlier this year I was bemoaning the death of Condé Nast's shelter book Domino, while also wondering if I could find a replacement pub for my monthly design fix. My subsequent search helped me define the X factors determining whether a shelter book merely rates a cursory look-through, or becomes a keepsake pub (at least for me; feel free to propose contrary views in the comments).

Egrets, I've had a few. Also macaws, warblers and cardinals. All make up the extraordinary world of our avian friends; there are 600 North American species alone. For amateur and professional ornithologists alike, the bird world is a source of endless fascination. Such is Audubon's turf; this beautifully produced magazine believes, like Emily Dickinson, "hope is the thing with feathers."

You could write thousands of words about how Star magazine both reflects and contributes to the inexorable decline of civilization, but I will skip all that in the hope of being a savvier media consumer than my dad, who once expressed indignation on finding "Boogie Nights" "a rather lewd movie" (Mom: "We thought it was about disco dancing"). Celebrity mags are what they are -- trash -- and if you don't like it, you're free to go read Tolstoy or Rick Warren, or maybe just take a nap.

If you just want tips on cameras, try Popular Photography. It's got rankings, choices and a user-friendly approach that spells out the technical expertise involved in high-end purchases. However, if you value the art and culture of photography, give American Photo a look-see. You'll become a regular F. Stop Fitzgerald.

Condé Nast recently shuttered Elegant Bride and Modern Bride. How can a new bridal magazine possibly survive in these trying times? Get Married is hoping to carve out a niche by focusing on being "the new shopping and trend guide for the savvy bride."

On Oct. 14, Bruce Wasserstein -- CEO of Lazard. Ltd. and owner of New York magazine -- died suddenly. The event had the makings of a classic New York article: Financier-Owner Dies! What's Next For New York Magazine? Speculation about the magazine's future did appear. Callous? Perhaps! Downright ghoulish? Maybe. But, hey, this is publishing and this is New York! You got a problem with that?

The Ring has a long and varied history dating back to 1922. For a while the magazine was published by Bert Sugar, a colorful cigar-chomper generally regarded as the dean of boxing writers and a man who could have been created by Damon Runyon. But today's version of the mag has no such pedigree; a company owned by the slick entrepreneur Oscar De La Hoya now publishes The Ring.Which raises the question: Can someone who oversees a stable of dozens of contending athletes publish a successful and unbiased magazine devoted to that sport?

Tennis magazine has streamlined its design -- and so has cover boy John McEnroe. Known for his killer volleys, as well as his abusive on-court behavior, the bad boy has turned 50. He's gained some maturity and perspective, now able to pace himself and see tennis as "entertainment." But he still loves the game -- and for those who share his passion, Tennis is their user-friendly ticket to tips, gear and star profiles.

Billboard dates back to 1894, but it's a huge understatement to note the magazine has seen quite a few changes since it began as a trade publication for the billboard advertising biz. Like Variety, Billboard does double duty as a trade pub and a consumer mag at once. But Variety is endlessly entertaining, even for those who aren't entertainers. Billboard can be tough to slog through if you don't make your living in the music business.