Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Morgan presents a sort of dummy?s guide to American architecture, dressed up in a pretty hardcover with copious color photographs and minimal, elegant descriptions. Househunters, homeowners, realtors?or anyone simply interested in what distinguishes a Victorian from a Colonial, what the difference is between Georgian and Greek Revival, or which empire inspired the Second Empire style?will love this book. Morgan aims ?to simplify?in text, image and graphic presentation?what has become a complex subject to understand,? and his book largely succeeds. In 15 color-coded chapters, Morgan, whose writings on architecture have appeared in The Boston Globe, The New York Times, Smithsonian and other publications, demystifies American house styles, giving a two-page overview for each, photographic examples from around the country and notes on the style?s defining characteristics. With its clear prose, comprehensive scope and excellent photos, this book will be a useful resource for all who care about American design. (Dec.) Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.
