Let There Be Light: A Book About Windows

Surveys the development of windows from prehistory to the modern era.

Grade 7 Up From describing the first human habitations to recounting present efforts to preserve stained glass from air pollution, Giblin provides many interesting facts. The evolution from shelters to buildings is followed through various civilizations. The development of windows in cultures and countries around the world is traced, with emphasis on Europe and the U.S. The chapters on the Middle Ages are most fascinating, including the symbolism of church architecture; the significance of the colors and subjects, design, and execution of stained glass windows; background on King Henry VIII's decrees against them; and the architecture of castles. The completion of London's Crystal Palace brings the story into modern timesthe renewed popularity of stained glass during the late 1800s, the first skyscrapers, Kristallnacht and black-out curtains of the World War II era, post-war buildings and picture windows, and the results of air pollution and social instability. The illustrations are clear and useful, with a section of color plates displaying styles of stained glass. The presentation is clear and the scope is broad, but always relating to the daily life of various classes and cultures. Readers will come to think differently about windows and many other things in light of the vastness of history. Dennis Ford, Canandaigua Junior Academy, N.Y.
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.