Book excerpt: "This book is a handy guide to architectural movements or 'isms' from classical times up to the present. [It] provides the ideal introduction to all the significant movements that have shaped the history of architecture. Each ism has a two-page spread on which there is an introduction to the ism which explains when the movement first emerged, the historical period to which it applies and the principel disputes over its applicability, usefulness or significance. Clear sections illustrate the most important practitioners and buildings within the period, related key words, and illustrations that best represent the distinctive features." -Inside front cover.