Three School of Architecture faculty members finalized and published important books on architecture this year.
David Hanser’s book, “The Architecture of France,” covers all regions and all periods of French Architecture. Amazon.com describes his book as follows: “Covering all regions of France—from Avignon’s Palace of the Popes to Versailles’ Petit Trianon—and all periods of French architecture—from the Roman theater at Orange to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris—this volume examines more than 60 of France’s most important architectural landmarks. Writing in a clear and engaging style, David Hanser, professor of architecture at Oklahoma State University, describes the features, functions, and historical importance of each structure. Besides identifying location, style, architects, and periods of initial construction and major renovation, the cross-referenced and illustrated entries also highlight architectural and historical terms explained in the Glossary and conclude with a useful listing of further readings. The volume also offers ready-reference lists of entries by location, architectural style, and time period, as well as a general bibliography, a subject index, and a detailed introductory overview of French architecture. Midwest Book Review called Hanser’s book “perfect for college-level art history collections specializing in international architecture ..... (a) solid reference.” This book, is one of a series being published by Greenwood in which David serves as executive editor. The series will include books on France, Italy, England, Spain, and Greece.
Nigel Jones’ book, “The Architecture of England and Wales,” is also part of the Greenwood series. Amazon.com desribes the book as follows: “British terrain is a gold mine for the student of architecture. Ranging in era from ancient times to the present day—from Stonehenge to the Millennium Dome—this volume’s 76 entries include palaces, castles, bridges, churches, country houses, and various public buildings and monuments, as well as such well-known features of British architecture and design as terraced houses, suburban semi-detached houses, and public telephone kiosks. Detailed, yet accessible to nonspecialist readers, the alphabetical entries also provide cross-references and lists of additional information sources in both print and electronic formats. Appendixes list the entries by location, architectural style, and architect/designer; explain the defining characteristics of major British architectural styles; and discuss the importance of the Crown, peerage, and Parliament in British architectural history. Besides a detailed subject index, the volume includes a timeline, a general bibliography, a glossary of architectural terms, and an introduction that traces the development of British architecture from prehistoric and Roman times to the 21st century. Reference & Research Book News said “Starting with Stonehenge and moving up to the Millennial Dome, Jones creates an encyclopedic review of the most significant examples of architecture, including their locations, intentions, creators and significance in terms of what they said about the people associated with them.”
John Womack’s book “Once Upon a Highway, Route 66 in Oklahoma” features pen and ink drawings, watercolors, photographs and descriptions of some of the most interesting and prominent structures along Route 66 in Oklahoma. John spent five years traveling along the “Mother Road” where he compiled notes, sketches, and photographs which became the basis of this study. The book demonstrates the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Oklahoma. Published by New Forums Press, John’s book has been officially endorsed by the Oklahoma Centennial Commission and the State Historical Preservation Office.
