Book Description

Step inside the Parthenon and discover for yourself what it was like to worship there.Superb cutaway illustrations provide a vivid and dramatic insight into everyday life in ancient Greece.

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Book Description

With an entertaining variety of activities, questions, photographs, and vignettes for children to ponder, this book is a fascinating look into the lives of Charles and Henry Greene, and also a close-up look at the Industrial Revolution and the birth of the Arts & Crafts movement.Arts & Crafts enthusiasts will love this book, as will lovers of architecture, bungalow owners, and anyone who wants to learn more about this period in American history. It's a book the whole family will enjoy!

Kathleen Thorne-Thomsen received a degree in visual design and photography at the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago. She is the author of many books for children. Kathleen lives in a Greene and Greene house in Pasadena, California. ... Read more

Book Description

Artists young and old will enjoy trying their hands at drawing the Ariel, Sebastian, and the rest of their friends. In How to Draw The Little Mermaid, easy-to-follow steps and tips from Disney artists will have you drawing characters in a variety of poses and moods. You’ll also learn interesting facts about the movie. Learning to draw has never been so rewarding! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

It really works!
Even though this book is meant for kids, I bought it anyway. I'm 16 and I really want to be an animator when I'm older, and surprisingly this book really helped me learn to draw all the "Little Mermaid" characters on my own, and helped me get a basic grasp of the cartoon anatomy. I have all the books in this series and I LOVE them all, they really helped my cartooning skills & they're fun to use as well.

My First Ariel
For those of us who want to draw, but have little or no actula experience, this book is invaluable. By going through the fundamentals of the proper procedures of drawing Ariel and her friends, one will be able to achieve artwork that really looks like her, instead of being an incredible simulation. The only drawback is that there are not enough drawings of Ariel, but you get a sense of body position, facial reactions and making the drawing flow. It works for me ... Read more

Amazon.com

In tracing the evolution of the metropolis, architectural illustrator Albert Lorenz dazzles readers with his extraordinary visual depictions of some of the greatest defining moments in human history. Ranging from the pinnacles of human achievement in art, technology, and architecture to wars and plagues, we see how these forces have shaped our urban centers. Nineteenth-century London, for example, depicts the Industrial Revolution-age city, while 16th-century Florence is a center of refinement and enlightenment. We are led, ultimately, to the emergence of the modern mega-metropolis, 20th-century New York. Lorenz employs such illustrative techniques as aerial perspectives and cut-away views into buildings in order to capture as many details as possible. Each of the 10 mini-chapters is a visual realm unto itself; a completely illustrated timeline unites them. One of the most memorable illustrations is Lorenz's imagining of the countless artists and craftsmen building the glorious Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. The full-color illustrations throughout effectively educate both kids and adults about art, culture, and architecture. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

dense encapsulation of historic cities at epochal times
This gorgeous book is nominally about cities, but through elaborate color illustrations, cross-sections and graphics, it depicts human endeavor and activity as well.

This is a large (though lightweight) book, approximately 10" x 12", and each of the cities depicted are given six pages. The first two-page spread puts the city into a textual and graphic context. The second spread depicts a building or the city being described, and these illustrations are dense with activity revealed more acutely with cross-sections, blow-ups and detail. An illustrated timeline of the century also runs along the border of these two pages. The final spread explains the centerpiece illustration and offers more detail of some aspect of the time. For example, Paris in the 12th Century first describes the Middle Ages and the history of Paris, and explains why so many cathedrals were built in this era, accompanied by a map of Europe showing many of them; the centerpiece illustration shows the construction of Notre Dame, with details of smiths, roofers, masons and carvers at work, and a timeline along the border that shows 22 other significant events of the century, such as the death of Omar Khayyam, an appearance of Halley's Comet, the birth of Genghis Khan, the murder of Thomas a Becket, the ascension of Richard the Lion-Hearted to the English throne and the construction of the Leaning Tower of Pisa; finally, a description of the cathedral work is given along with detailed text and illustrations of Notre Dame's carvings and stained glass, including the Rose Window.

The text is informative and detailed, though this is a supplement to history texts and not a substitute, with an emphasis on how people of the time lived and worked. The cities chosen are historically and culturally significant: Jerusalem of the 11th century with a discussion of religion and the Crusades; Paris of the 12th century, with a discussion of the cathedrals of Europe; a Mongol tent city of the 13th century; 14th century Koblenz, with a discussion of the Plague; Lisbon and Mozambique of the 15th century; 16th century Florence, with a discussion of Renaissance art and learning; Osaka of the 17th century, with a discussion of Kabuki and No theatre; Vienna of the 18th century; 19th century London; and 20th century New York, emphasizing its immigrant populations.

If you are a history buff, or have a child studying history, this lush book will add dimension to your/their understanding. Highest recommendation.

Tour de force for readers of all ages
Metropolis is an amazing tour de force for readers of all ages. It seems to be a children's book at first glance, with full-paged color illustrations, but it satisfies the curiosities of any reader about life in different cities and different times. Where else could you learn about the construction of Notre Dame Cathedral in the 12th century AND Koblenz at the height of the plague in the 14th century? I plan to keep this book as a family treasure and pass it down to my children some day. Read it!! ... Read more

Book Description

This is a state-by-state guide to all the homes and buildings designed by probably the 20th century's most prolific and influential architect.Also includes an informative introduction, a section on Wright's interior designs, a list of demolished buildings, and a chronology.Illustrated with over 300 full-color photographs. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Too difficult for young readers
Ju st a note - Some of the reviews listed here for Rubin's book seem to be for another author-Thomas Heinz.
I found that Rubin's book was much too difficult reading for young adults, with too much crammed in as far as space and text.

stone, brick, wood, and 100% genius
This marvelous book is in 3 languages, English, German and French, in tandem, on each page. Printed on thick, glossy stock by Taschen, it is well written by Bruce Brooks Pfeiffer in a clear and graceful style, and expertly edited by Peter Gossel and Gabriele Leuthauser. The contents are as follows:
Part One: "Essay"; this is the section where most of the text is, and consists of these topics: Background, The Prairie Houses, The Space Within, Materials, Nature, The Flow of the Work, and Human Values.
Part Two is "Selected Buildings and Projects".
The final pages are devoted to a chronological biography and list of executed works.

Mr. Pfeiffer writes that "His eloquence in the manner in which he wrote and spoke of nature is surpassed only by the buildings he set on the earth" (pg. 28). The way his work is an integral part of its surroundings is pure genius. The photograph on page 118 of the famous Fallingwater House, with the waterfall seeming to come from the structure is a perfect example of this.
The architect is quoted as saying "Nature is all the body of God we will ever know" (pg.26), and his creations reflect this reverence for the landscape.

Part Two is profusely illustrated in black and white and color, with only explanatory text. As magnificent as these photographs are, what I find the most thrilling are the drawings. They are reproduced in color, many are yellowed, torn and with little adhesive tape marks, but are of astounding beauty, and a glimpse into the mind of this unique and brilliant man.

Mr. Pfeiffer became Frank Lloyd Wright's student in the Taliesin Fellowship, and is the director of the Frank Lloyd Wright Archives in Scottsdale, Arizona. This is one of numerous books he has written on Wright's life and work, and it is a fitting tribute to one of America's creative giants.

Incorrect review
The reviewer from Chicago has mistaken this book for another one. The author of this book is not Thomas A. Heinz. Mr. Heinz's books are of exceptionally high quality. This book as well as the Visual Encyclopedia authored by Mr. Thompson does contain a number of mis-identifications and an upside down picture of the Hollyhock House ornamentation.

The First of the Best
There are some of the best of the photos of Wright's work in this book, After seeing this work, Edgar Kaufmann, jr. hired Heinz to take the photos for his Fallingwater coffee table book.

Aparently the Reader from California has copied this review on to several of Mr. Heinz's book pages. This review does not seem to be appropriate to this book. This can easily be determined by simply looking at the three wonderful photos of the Hollyhock house. None of them are upside down. None of the 100 photos are mis-identified. These are wonderful photographs and this may be the first of Mr. Heinz's 20 some books, all are delight to have and look through.

Mr. Heinz, we want more of your work, keep at it.

Attractive photos, but lacks care in preparation
While there are some attractive photographs in this book, the text and captions were not carefully checked. More than a few pictures are mis-identified, some photos are backwards and one showing the decorative features of Hollyhock House is upside down! Some of the structures are listed in the wrong cities. ... Read more

Book Description

The illustrated true story of the world's most famous skyscraper.

In 1929 the race was on to construct the tallest building in the world. Less than two years later, the race was won and the age of skyscrapers had its exclamation point.

In Empire State Building, author Elizabeth Mann tells the story of an American icon. From start to finishing touches, she tracks the wonders of architecture, engineering, and construction that went into its creation. Her fascinating profiles of the millionaires and laborers capture the essence of the individuals who dreamed of and built this architectural marvel.

Alan Witschonke's paintings are bold and luminous, and his diagrams dazzlingly clear. Photographs by early 20th century master Lewis Hine take the reader up high into the heady, dangerous world of the steelworker out on the edge of girders way above the city streets. Empire State Building is a timely book about the enduring achievement of a great city. ... Read more

From the Publisher

First proposed as a way to attract tourists to South Dakota, workon this massive sculpture took more than 14 years, outlasting threepresidents and the Great Depression. From beginning to end, it was aproject surrounded by controversy. Half a million tons of granite wereblasted and chiseled from the 400-foot-high cliff face in the Black Hillsto create the 60-foot-high images of four of America's greatest leaders.Today, this memorial has become an international symbol of the greatnessof our country and a tribute to the workers who risked their lives tocreate it.

Our nation's unique identity has been formed, in large part, by the monuments and landmarks we have erected. Structures such as the famous Gateway Arch in St. Louis and the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C., stand today as permanent reminders of the people and events that have built a strong America. Many of these structures made history even as they were created; most integrated the latest in design and technology and required the skills of thousands of workers. For the first time, the Building America series chronicles the massive undertakings that mark some of the greatest triumphs of human engineering. The fact that these projects were even attempted, and then completed successfully, is a testament to the boldness of human ingenuity and a tribute to the brave spirit of the American people. It is that special spirit that is now captured in the pages of the Building America series.

Grades 3-7; 7 1/2 x 9; 48 pages; 40-45 photos; Chronology; Glossary; Further Reading; Source; Notes; Index ... Read more

Book Description

Text and black and white illustrations show how the Romans planned and constructed their cities for the people who lived within them. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

another great resource from Macaulay
David Macaulay's works are always entertaining, educational and literate, and this is no exception. A multitude of black-and-white line drawings illustrate the story of Roman urban planners as they design and construct a new city on the Roman empire's frontier. Every stage is explained thoroughly using text, illustrations and charts, from developing a master plan through construction. Tools are explained, cross-sections are used to good effect and specific projects such as a house, a road, a bridge and aqueduct, the forum and central market, public baths, the sewer system and an amphitheater and theater are represented. The book ends with a one-page glossary. If you or a student you know is interested in Roman engineering, this would be a marvelous book to read.

Excellent resource
As a teacher I constantly seek new resources for the classroom. I teach high school and find this resources reaches all levels. My own college student sat down and devoured this book. You will not be dissappointed as Mr. MacAulay once again dissects the difficult and dry and produces an interesting and accesible resource on Rome.

A "must read" for anyone planning to visit Roman ruins
I read this book before going to Pompeii and Herculeum, and it greatly enriched my appreciation for and understanding of those sites. Guidebooks may help you develop a general idea as to the use of a particular building, usually help you find that building, and may give you an idea as to what that building looked like 2000 years ago. This book gives you a brief, easily accessible account of what life was like in these places and helps you identify and understand little details that you otherwise would have either missed or puzzled over. It will greatly increase your appreciation for the Romans as engineers and urban planners!

All You Ever Wanted to Know About Rome...
How did they do it? Build an empire, erect bathhouses and apartment buildings, provide running water and sub-floor heating... MacAuley begins with the emperial surveyors laying out the streets of the city they will build: town planning with fine attention to the details that are a hallmark in this stunning and valuable series. The book reveals the work in progress... a Sim City in a book. This treasure provides links in many directions: to The Gladiator and Asterix, to Roman studies and literature, and to architecture and engineering in all its modern carnations. Enjoy! I add this series to my list of "1000 books I would give to any child".

Facinating insite into Roman engineering
If you're an adult who still has youthful curiousity but doesn't have the time for scholarly works, these books by Macaulay are delightful discoveries. This Roman City book is a particular delight explaining how locations were selected and how cities were organized around roman social order and plain common sense. It knocks down the "arrogance of the modern" to realize how clever our ancestors were. Oh yeah, and kids who love to build with Legos will love this book to. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

beautiful, informative, for all ages
This lovely book reveals the igloo-building process through striking black & white photos and a simple, clear narrative. I recently obtained this book for use with a group of four-year-olds. The book was a hit with the kids, and to my surprise, I enjoyed it even more than they did. The high contrast, sharply detailed photos show just how these fascinating structures go together. The pictures and narrative both communicate respect for the skill and hard work of the Inuit builders, a father-and-son team. I heartily recommend this book to teachers, parents, and children, and also to those interested in documentary photography. ... Read more

Book Description

The Hanging Gardens of Babylon. The Colossus of Rhodes. The Great Pyra-mid at Giza. For centuries these names have inspired wonder and mystery. They are but three of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Most of these masterpieces of human achievement have long since crumbled into dust. But their legacy survives, and these triumphs of human vision, architecture, and creativity have become the stuff of legends.

In the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, Lynn Curlee ponders the questions that have fascinated researchers and archaeologists for decades: What purpose did these structures have for the societies that built them? How did they achieve the means necessary to construct such intricate and innovative temples and statues? Mr. Curlee investigates and illustrates how these Seven Wonders must have appeared at their peak.

With extraordinary paintings and a moving narrative, Mr. Curlee tells the story of some of man?s greatest feats and explores the timeless desire of cultures to leave a permanent mark on the Earth. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

a tad disappointing
Enticed by a review of it in a local free-bee circular, I really wanted to like this book. The illustrations are good, but neither they nor the text were especially engaging. I'm not familiar with the author's other works, but i suspect this is not his best. ... Read more

Book Description

IT ALL STARTS with a vision of a building so high it will catch the clouds. . . .

From that first vision, through the planning, digging, welding, fitting, and decorating, Skyscraper shows how a very tall building is constructed in a very narrow space. Author Susan Goodman and photographer Michael Doolittle spent several years documenting the building of a New York City skyscraper. They have distilled hundreds of photographs and hours of interviews and research into this lively and accessible book for construction fans of all ages. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A coverage of bridges around the world
Kids ages 9-13 years will find this accessible and inviting: a coverage of bridges around the world, with a healthy degree of simple engineering basics added to make the history appealing. The lively text and black and white drawings do a fine job of explaining differences between bridge construction and different builder achievements. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

An solid intermediate look at the life and art of Picasso
This Famous Artist book by Antony Mason serves as an introduction to the life and work of Pablo Picasso. These books are organized in a particular way for each two-page spread: On the left page there is an illustration of the artist's home or environment and the story of the artist's life, along with a painting and a small symbol used to indicate the size of the paintings relative to a person. On the right page there are more paintings (usually with a key section enlarged) with text about the artist's work at the time, along with a feature on the artist's technique (e.g., balancing colors, seeing all angles, reworking great art) with practical projects to try.

This book balances Picasso's life with his art, organized chronologically by the key stages of his career: Paris, The Blue Period, The Rose Period, Cubism, Synthetic Cubism, etc. Some of the key paintings studied are "The Absinthe Drinker," "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon," "Minotaur and Dead Mare Outside a Cave," and "Guernica." Mason not only highlights key aspects of these paintings (and other art forms as well), he fills his book with fascinating details, like the German officer who saw "Guernica" in Picasso's studio and asked "Did you do this?" only to be told by the artist, "No, you did this." These are the sorts of things that are well worth being remembered by students. There are certainly more detailed books about Picasso's life and art, but this is an excellent intermediary book. Other titles in the Famous Artists series look at Cezanne, Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Monet and Van Gogh. ... Read more