Lusk (emeritus, architecture and planning, U. of New Mexico), Simon (architecture and planning, U. of New Mexico), and nine co-authors explored the history of human habitation in the American southwest and other dry areas to develop new--and in some cases very old-- ways of creating adaptable and durable communities. The authors address the multiple reasons for changing the approach to building or rebuilding communities: climate change, limited non-renewable energy sources, and excessive water use to name a few. The book is a combination of nuts and bolts guidelines and big picture ideas as well as case studies. Photographs and other illustrations are included. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)