Stone, Clay, Glass

School Library Journal

Gr 5-8 Books about building, such as Bergere's From Stones to Skyscrapers (Dodd, 1960; o.p.) generally discuss the history of architecture and styles, merely mentioning the materials used. Day's Concrete and Masonry (Fawcett, 1969; o.p.) is a how-to-do-it book with instructions for actual projects. Bates' book discusses at length three of the most basic building materials, where they come from, how they are processed, and how they are used now and have been used in the past. Bates helps readers to understand that these common materials are natural resources which are important in our daily lives and are often overlooked and neglected. His book serves to develop knowledge about and appreciation for these ordinary items. Sharp black-and-white photogaphs, diagrams, and a readable typeface complement the well-written text. Meryl Silverstein, Meyer Levin Junior High School, Brooklyn