Architectural historian Riddell has taught at universities in Britain and the US and has written extensively about design and cultural history. Here he offers readers a remarkably thoroughly treatment of the portico--a prominent architectural feature that has received relatively little attention. He examines its origins as a metaphor for the classical style temple, its incorporation in structures built over the span of a couple centuries, and its decline in modern times as a legacy of the past that need not encumber the future. The text is organized chronologically. About half the pages are devoted to color photos of structures exemplifying the various styles and eras. Distribution in North America is by The David Brown Book Co. Annotation ©2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)