In this unusual book, Hutchins, a preservationist and author of the excellent Restoring Old Houses (Firefly, 1997), seeks to show not only the history of North American stone and brick building styles but how to restore them properly so that they will be intact for future generations. The subjects covered include inspection, maintenance, building techniques, and finishes. The author assumes that the reader has some experience, so he does not provide step-by-step instructions. Formulas for a variety of stuccos, whitewashes, and plasters are provided as well as lists of tools. Excellent line drawings as well as current and historical photos of numerous types of structures help explain tools and terminology. This book will appeal to readers with an interest in architecture and historic preservation as well as those who are active restorers. Libraries that own the first edition (1982) can easily pass on this revised edition, because they are very similar.AJonathan N. Hershey, Akron-Summit Cty. P.L., Akron, OH
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.