"It is the attention [Rybczynski] pays space--an enthusiastic and highly infectious kind of attention, something close to an architectural evangelism--that both freshens our eyes and grants new perspectives on the intentionality of our environment . A deft and sensible guide, Rybczynski charms, challenges, and finally, welcomes us into a world we may never have realized could be so enthralling . This one is required reading for anyone interested in the story of architecture--or the shape of the modern world." --Dustin Illingworth, The Brooklyn Rail "[H]is writing is, like his architectural leanings, clear and civil, and full of cocktail-worthy trivia." --Mike Doherty, Maclean's "A superb book for those interested in architectural history, written in an easygoing style by a man with encyclopedic knowledge and an obvious great love for building." -- Kirkus Reviews (starred review) "[Rybczynski is] an eloquent critic with a range of interests as broad as his voluminous published work . the prose sparkles . Over the course of his career, Rybczynski has proven a deft guide to the work of countless architects; here, he is just as sage a curator of his own criticism.

" --Anthony Paletta, Publishers Weekly (boxed signature review) "Throughout the collection, Rybczynski's writing is clear-headed and thoughtful, knowledgeable but unpretentious . the awe, appreciation and wonder that Rybczynski has for architecture can be infectious." --Anna Weiner, The New Republic.