Women of Steel and Stone: 22 Inspirational Architects, Engineers, and Landscape Designers

Description

An inspiration for young people who love to design, build, and work with their hands, Women of Steel and Stone tells the stories of 22 female architects, engineers, and landscape designers from the 1800s to today. Engaging profiles based on historical research and firsthand interviews stress how childhood passions, perseverance, and creativity led these women to overcome challenges and break barriers to achieve great success in their professions. Subjects include Marion Mahony Griffin, who worked alongside Frank Lloyd Wright to establish his distinct architectural-drawing style; Emily Warren Roebling, who, after her husband fell ill, took over the duties of chief engineer on the Brooklyn Bridge project; Marian Cruger Coffin, a landscape architect who designed estates of Gilded Age mansions; Beverly L. Greene, the first African American woman in the country to get her architecture license; Zaha Hadid, one of today's best-known architects and the first woman to receive the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize; and many others. Practical information such as lists of top schools in each field; descriptions of specific areas of study and required degrees; and lists of programs for kids and teens, places to visit, and professional organizations, make this an invaluable resource for students, parents, and teachers alike.

Anna M. Lewis is an award-winning toy inventor and creativity advocate. She is the author of City Doodles: Chicago and has contributed to Appleseeds, Odyssey, and Toy Design Monthly. She teaches classes on cartooning, game design, arts and crafts, monster making, and painting through her company, Ideasplash.

"What caused a few women to counter the trends and choose these professions? What difficulties did they face in fields so new to them? And did the influences that marked their early histories reveal themselves in their work and careers? Anna Lewis's book raises these questions, central for young people considering the future." --Denise Scott Brown, cofounder, Venturi, Scott Brown and Associates "A much-needed, clearly presented history." -- School Library Journal "Inspiring." -- Booklist "A truly inspirational read, this is the kind of book that will motivate young readers to learn more about a field they may not have thought about much before." -- VOYA Its large font and abridged biographies make it perfect for teenagers or adults looking for a quick--but meaningful--read." --GeekMom.com