By Tom Martinson; 2009; 543 pp.
Rizzoli; Hardcover

Don’t let the term “atlas” fool you—this hefty volume is a complete package covering the history and theory of American architecture, from the earliest human structures to the present. Although it must have been a daunting task to organize such a vast amount of material, Martinson does it well. The first half of the volume presents styles and movements chronologically, providing an unfolding picture of how and why they evolved; Style 1900 readers will find the ripe and complex turn-of-the-century period well covered, with specific sections devoted to Romanticism, Eclecticism, Gothic, Beaux Arts, the Chicago School, Frank Lloyd Wright, the Prairie School, Craftsman style, California styles, and Moderne. The book’s second half discusses the role of architecture in American life through building types such as malls, resorts, and theaters. Related issues—city planning, landscape architecture and civil engineering—are also considered. Martinson’s witty, evocative language and 1,100 crisp, colorful photos make this a fun resource; the extensive bibliography, places index, and list of architects make it a must-have reference.