This book is a handy intro to American architecture. It helps to have a bit of a background before reading it, although a beginner wouldn't have too much trouble figuring things out. I use it as a quick reference and an easy way to study, but I wouldn't recommend it for really detailed research. It is exactly what it says: a field giude. The illustrations are concise and easy to read, and the descriptions are brief but specific. The glossary is good for basic terms, but probably not as useful for intricacies.

Well organized, thought out, and written. Heavy emphasis on house styles and architectural types rather than naming and describing the various pieces and parts of a structure. Overall, a good standard reference text that covers most dwelling architectural categories. If you have this one you probably won't need a second similar such book in your library.

As an architect, I use this book as a reference tool. The library of photos contained within this book sometimes help when trying to develop the characteristics of a certain style of building. I have even used to with a few clients who say thay want this or that look. I then have them thumb through this book and show them the style they have mentioned only to have then say "No, this is the style I'm talking about" pointing to another style.

It is a very useful tool for understanding the differences between styles (even though buildings are often blurred and composits of styles). In addition, it is an excellent visual aid for reference.

For many years, I've written about historic architecture and vintage homes and have also written four books on this topic (including "The Houses That Sears Built").

Throughout these many years of writing and researching, I've kept this "Field Guide to American Houses" close at hand.

It's an *excellent* reference work and my copy is nearly worn out from repeated use. This book is well-organized and laid out and enables a laymen to find (and use) the *RIGHT* name for an old house and its appendages. In addition to general housing styles, it also has detailed drawings showing proper architectural terms for parts and pieces of an old house. Lots of good photos and drawings. Great resource.

One curious aside (and tidbit): It shows a Spanish-style mission home (page 408 "Eclectic Houses; Mission"). The house featured on this page is actually a Sears kit home, The Alhambra. Why they chose to feature a Sears kit home without identifying it as such is a little surprising, but interesting!

Rose Thornton
author, The Houses That Sears Built
co-author, California's Kit Homes

"Field Guide" is the first reading required of all graduate students in at least one highly esteemed university degree program in historic preservation. It is also one of those rare books that serves well as both an introduction to and a reference for its subject.

Some in the field of architectural history might quibble, academically, about some of its taxonomical treatments of styles, but it is thorough, accurate, and an enjoyable read besides. It is perhaps the single best place to start if one is interested in old houses, architectural history, or historic preservation, and is useful to casual "buffs," students, and professionals alike.