Book excerpt: This book presents the small boat designer & builder with a basic insight into the nature of fiberglass as a boat-building material, as well as a sound, yet simple, approach to analyzing fiberglass boat hull structures. The basic principles of fiberglass, including its advantages & disadvantages are outlined & thorough review is given to the characteristics of fiberglass materials & laminate design properties. In addition, valuable data is presented on basic design principles such as selection of structural loads, safety factors, deflection & vibration limitation. The level of detail presented in this book is tuned to the boat designer who recognizes the need for a sound engineering analysis of the fiberglass structures he designs, tempered with a practical, uncomplicated approach. The book is well illustrated & includes numerous step-by-step design examples to demonstrate the principles presented. List $25; Members $20. The Society of Naval Architects & Marine Engineers, 601 Pavonia Ave., Jersey City, NJ 07306. phone: 201-798-4800 FAX: 201-798-4975. website: http://www.sname.org.