The Oral History of Modern Architecture: Interviews with the Greatest Architects of the Twentieth Century

First off, it's amazing that John Peter was able to interview so the greatest architects of the 20th century. This book contains candid conversations that illuminate the geniuses behind the buildings. The book is worth the price just for the chance to HEAR the voices of many of the architects including Aalto, Breuer, Neutra, Gropius, Saarinen, Corbu, Wright, Mies and more! John Peter had the access and credentials that let him repeatedly interview these architects and more over decades. He asked them thoughtful questions which reflected his own insights (which were obviously very well informed). The illustrations are sparse and used only where you need a jog to your memory of the buildings that are more extensively shown in other publications. The precious space is reserved for the rare words of these giants. This may well be the best book on modern architecture that I've ever read. I was so impressed with this book that upon completion I wanted to write the author to tell him how wonderful the reading experience was. Alas, Mr. Peter died in 1998. What a fabulous legacy he has left us in this book.