Julia Morgan, Architect

School Library Journal

A book that deserves consideration primarily because Julia Morgan remains one of only a handful of women to achieve distinction in a field still dominated by men. James presents an interesting and detailed account of the shy and unassuming woman who quietly broke through many barriers of tradition. More than 70 well-chosen illustrations--photographs, sketches, and architectural drawings--add to the text. The book is well researched with little fictionalization; quotations are attributed to the speaker, but not footnoted. At times Morgan seems almost superhuman, working virtually nonstop (she completed more than 700 projects) and battling ear infections that affected her balance. To temper this image, James includes details of Morgan's idiosyncrasies. Sufficient historical and technical information sets Morgan's life into the framework of other early 20th-century events that influenced her. Of necessity, since little else is available, the ``Further Readings'' section suggests books that will be accessible only to mature readers. The life of this dedicated professional should be an inspiration to all readers. --Jeanette Larson, Mesquite Public Library, TX