Bridges

Library Journal

With San Francisco's earthquake so vividly in mind--and especially the harrowing pictures of its damaged Bay Bridge--this exciting work on one of our most useful and beautiful inventions will be a timely addition to most libraries. From foundation to tower, bridges are elegant solutions to complex problems of engineering and architecture. Examples of 45 of the greatest span, arch, and suspension bridges in Europe and the United States are highlighted by photography that is both stunning and informative. Indeed, the work is largely pictorial, with 375 illustrations (including 264 in full color), but specifications for each bridge are also included and the introduction provides an historical and technical perspective on bridges. Historically, bridges from the Pont du Gard in Nimes, France, to the very latest suspension bridges in West Germany are covered in this fine account.--Russell T. Clement, Brigham Young Univ. Lib., Provo, Ut.

Booknews

A celebration of the beauty and visual impact of bridges with a nod to the designers' and builders' ingenuity in solving special problems. Engineers will appreciate the book. Lacks both an index and a bibliography. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)