13 Skyscrapers Children Should Know - (13 Children Should Know) by Brad Finger (Hardcover)

About the Book

This newest addition to Prestel's acclaimed
series, which introduces children to important
works of art and architecture, takes young
readers around the world to investigate how
tall buildings are constructed and what makes
them so appealing. There's something irresistible about a skyscraper. It can reshape
an entire city skyline, and from the building's top floors, people
can see the world from a different perspective. Travelling
from New York City to Dubai, from London to Shanghai, and
from Kuala Lumpur to Chicago, this colorful book features
double-page spreads for each of the skyscrapers it profiles.

Book Synopsis

This newest addition to Prestel's acclaimed series, which introduces children to important works of art and architecture, takes young readers around the world to investigate how tall buildings are constructed and what makes them so appealing. There's something irresistible about a skyscraper. It can reshape an entire city skyline, and from the building's top floors, people can see the world from a different perspective. Travelling from New York City to Dubai, from London to Shanghai, and from Kuala Lumpur to Chicago, this colorful book features double-page spreads for each of the skyscrapers it profiles. Each chapter includes photographs, information on the building's architect and history, and interesting facts about its construction and use. For instance, why is the Chrysler Building so admired, even though it doesn't stand nearly as tall as other skyscrapers? How do you measure the height of a building and how do you make sure it doesn't topple over in strong winds? How has skyscraper technology changed from the steel frame skeletons that supported the earliest towers to the advanced computer programs that are now needed to design buildings more than 100 stories high? How has city life changed since the first skyscrapers were built? Written in a style that will draw in young readers, this fascinating tour of the world's tallest buildings will satisfy even the most curious minds.

Review Quotes

"From ancient Egypt's great pyramids to medieval Europe's cathedral towers, humans have always tried to build structures that reach the sky, whether out of practicality or hubris. This book showcases 13 of the world's best-known and most influential skyscrapers . . . In clearly designed, well laid-out pages, each skyscraper is accompanied by a box that provides quick details (date of construction, architectural style, designer, height), while a time line at the top contextualizes the building."

--Booklist
About the series "Each book in this kid-friendly series showcases 13 notable artists or architects; important works (from bridges to Sculpture); or movements within the fields of art, fashion, and architecture. These comprehensive, visually appealing books are international in scope and always intelligently written."

--Booklist
"Students interested in structural design elements, architecture, urban living, or the integration of greenspaces will find plenty to glean from this fascinating look at the evolution of skyscrapers. A solid purchase for collections in need of kid-friendly books on building design."

--School Library Journal