Book excerpt: This beautiful book explores the development of architecture around the world from the ancient civilisations of Egypt and the Near East through the Industrial Revolution. It presents a diverse series of building styles and architectural detailing which will fascinate and delight everyone who is interested in buildings and how they have developed over the years. The book is illustrated with drawings and beautifully detailed engraved plates. Most of these are from early sources, and their extended captions provide a comprehensive naming of architectural elements. The captions are also a useful guide to architectural terminology. The book is a must for anyone interested in the story of architecture.