I'm a bit torn by this book. I like the concept and adore the illustrations, but the content was a bizarre. The book covered a random assortment of architectural movements (like Art Deco, brutalism, etc.), architects (Zaha Hadid, Frank Ghery, etc.), types of structures (arenas, bridges, huts, etc.), individual buildings (Guggenheim, Angkor Wat, Bubble Palace, etc.), and general concepts (humanity, team, positive, etc.). There was absolutely zero organization or any sense of flow which I found both distracting and frustrating. Like I said, I really like the illustrations and liked that most were of a specific real-world example of whatever the page was focused on. I was pleased to find several things that I have seen among the illustrations.

A beautifully illustrated and engaging read for young children and adults alike. This would be a great way to get children interested in architecture and even possibly make a career in it someday down the road. I, myself, enjoyed researching the listed architecture for my own knowledge.

Pros: I am a big believer that (good) children's books are not just for children but that the adults who read them with the children can learn something too! I was expecting this book to just feature architectural terms but it is SO much more. It features architects (from diverse backgrounds!) and famous works of architecture! My favorite thing about this book is that it included "inclusive" as one of the terms and emphasized the importance of accessibility in architecture. I also loved the care given to definitions like "favela" that are often described in a negative way that puts blame on the people who live there--this book does the opposite and provides an empowering description of this neighborhood and the people who live there.

Also, the illustrations in this book are fantastic. When I read an illustrated children's book, I always examine if any child could see themselves represented in the illustrated people, and the illustrated people in this book are wonderfully diverse and inclusive.

Cons: This is not really a con but more a note for readers--this book is for an older age that I expected. It's not a picture book but instead has lots of words to read.

Thank you to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group – Frances Lincoln Children's Books, Happy Yak for the opportunity to read this book.

This delightfully illustrated title is packed with information and is sure to inspire budding architects. Read about people, types of structures, specific places and lifestyle matters within these pages. Just a few of my favorite entries included; Treehouse, the Guggenheim Museum, Pyramid, Ancient Greek, Frank Gehry, Wellness and Walking. Kids can find their own favorite pages in this book that introduces them to architecture.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group for this title. All opinions are my own.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It was a quick read and left me feeling wonderous and fascinated. I spent half of my time looking up all the architectural references to see how realistic the illustrations were to the actual structure. Every time, without failure, the illustration did the real thing justice! I was eager to share what I had learned, showing most of the buildings to my students, friends, and family. This book is clearly well researched and takes into consideration the past, present, and future of architecture by exploring ancient structures, indigenous designs, modern constructions, and futuristic plans. I will be adding the physical copy to my personal library as well as my classroom collection.

Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the authors for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book has some really fantastic images, and the concepts are explained well for children. I think this book would be good for children a little bit older (8+) as some of the concepts might be hard to understand for younger children. Still, I think that this book is a great book for anyone looking to explore the world around them. I also like that the book takes the time to explain concepts like wellness and inclusivity as functions of both humanity but also how architecture uses them.

An engaging, fun read! It is written in an easy-to-comprehend style and the illustrations are bright and colorful. Any young child interested in architecture would be well-served to have this book.

Thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing for access to this arc, which I voluntarily read and reviewed.

A fascinating blend of old and new concepts in architecture. This children's book has just the right balance of informative text and helpful illustrations. Although written simply enough for young readers, it's a collection of ideas that adults may very well find educational too. It touches on people who pioneered designs from ancient to modern times, important design terms, types of structures, and various approaches to architecture. It is written in a very accessible way, and I found its method of focusing on one word at a time very effective!

This book caught my eye because 1) I have a little guy in my life showing interest in architecture, and 2) I went to architecture school. I love the layout and design of this book. Each page introduces a concept, famous architect, or type of building. The graphics are beautiful and functional. Some of the concepts may be a little over a 7 year old's head, but love that it is easy to navigate and reference back to the book as he gets older.

This book is fantastic for any budding innovators/architects/planners. Filled with so much information but keeping it short and punchy, I can see why children would love it and even as an adult it is a fun informative read.

Each page has quick but informative facts with illustrations to match which are great to engage and draw attention. I appreciate how they explain environmental factors, job climates etc can differ from country to country and why along with lots of different factors which are taken into consideration with place making.

They also highlight some leading at architects and provide plenty of encouragement for young eyes to go away and find out more.

There is a handy glossary (mentioned at the beginning) which a great and helpful tool!

As a Town Planner, I will be purchasing this book to have in my home as it is interesting and a lovely talking point with the children in my life that want to know more about what I do.