Frank Lloyd Wright

Children's Literature

This biography tells Frank Lloyd Wright's life, inspirations, and accomplishments. It describes how he grew up in the countryside of Wisconsin that later became his artistic inspiration as he began painting and, later in life, designing architectural buildings. Having achieved wealth and popularity through designing residential buildings by the age of forty, he grew restless and left both his wife and children and the country to tour and design in Europe with the wife of a client. Upon returning he found the scandal too great to continue as in the past and eventually created a retreat, Taliesin, that later became a school of design. Frank Wright again achieved success, though this time through commercial design. Also, he achieved world-wide fame by designing a hotel in Japan, creating a fellowship program at Taliesin, and designing the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum. His devotion to work and self-centeredness led to many short-lived relationships and marriages. Finally he ended up marrying Olgivanna and having two children with her (one of which was adopted). Never tiring, Frank Lloyd Wright worked up until his death at age ninety-one, completing more than 700 buildings. 2006, Creative Education, Ages 12 to 16.
—Angela Olkey

School Library Journal

Gr 7 Up-Fandel explores the interesting life changes and inspirations that motivated Wright to design the organically inspired homes and buildings for which he is so famous. The chronological narrative showcases black-and-white and full-color photographs on each glossy page; the captions for the images address what Wright was designing or discovering in each object pictured. His personal life is presented in a neutral tone, touching on his relationships, his job changes, and his major commissions. Quotes from his students, contemporaries, and admirers offer unique perspectives to the account. Two writings by Wright explain his inspiration and vision. Well organized, appealingly designed, and interesting to read, this pictorial biography will interest browsers and report writers.-Delia Fritz, Sunset Ridge Middle School, West Jordan, UT Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.