School Library Journal Review

Gr 4--6--Researchers and architecture enthusiasts alike will find their needs met with this thorough series. Not only are the books full of beautiful photography and informational diagrams but they also include important terminology that helps distinguish one architectural style from the next. Classical architecture leans heavily on ornate details and symmetry, while modern architecture's clean lines fuse function with the beautiful simplicity of geometry. Green Architecture and Smart Architecture both focus on sustainability, with the latter including buildings with automated features as well. Industrial Architecture mentions the Industrial Revolution and does include some factories with sustainable or reworked architecture, but almost nothing about the environmental impact of factories. While Ancient Architecture adeptly describes how difficult it was for pre-modern civilizations to build elaborate structures, the unethical methods most early archaeologists used to raid and ruin these structures is downplayed to the detriment of readers. The books are otherwise well-written and researched. VERDICT The too-rosy view requires selectors to pick and choose through this otherwise well-done series.