How a Cornfield Became New Daleville: Real Estate Development in America from George Washington to the Builders of the Twenty-first Century, and Why We Live in Houses Anyway
by Witold Rybczynski
Scribner, 2007
Comments: Another story from one of my favorite writers. The subject of land development is something I suspect that most people would rather watch paint dry than read about. Nonetheless, it becomes fascinating from a writer as skillful as Rybczynski. Here he takes the reader through the complete process of an actual subdivision development project, from concept to inhabitation, bringing the story to life with the different perspectives of the broad cast of characters involved: developers, designers, engineers, municipal authorities, contractors, buyers, neighbors, and other players. As usual, Rybczynski, frames the account with pertinent historical context and his own astute views to deliver an enlightened appreciation for the subject.
In the end, this is basically a book about process, albeit a very good one. Admittedly, it's a process that not many people find very engaging, but if you're among those who do, it's remarkably interesting and sure to please.
Copy Notes: Hardback, first edition
