Julia Morgan, Architect of Dreams (Lerner Biographies)
Grade 7-9-- Because Morgan preferred to let her work speak for her, the first substantial biography of her ( Julia Morgan, Architect Abbeville Pr, 1988 by Sara Holmes Boutelle) wasn't written until 30 years after her death. Thus, it may be somewhat remarkable--and unfortunate--that two biographies for young readers so similar in content have been published in the same year. Either would be valuable but few libraries will need both. Wadsworth capably traces Morgan's unprecedented accomplishments, emphasizing her professional life a bit more than Cary James does in Julia Morgan (Chelsea House, 1990). There is some duplication of the black-and-white illustrations, but in Wadsworth's book, the photographs are cropped more closely and the reproduction is better. Several full-color photographs, which more adequately reflect the splendor of William Randolph Hearst's San Simeon, are also included. Those interested in further reading will find a mixed assortment of adult and juvenile books, including Boutelle's extensive study and several general books on architecture. A list of selected buildings designed by Morgan, many of which still stand, is appended. --Jeanette Larson, Mesquite Public Library, TXCopyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.