This colorful volume details the function and beauty of masonry heaters, special fireplaces found mostly in northern and eastern Europe, that use thermal mass and complex heat exchanging flue configurations to create super efficient home heating systems. Matesz, a masonry heater builder and evangelist, provides information about the history, design and building of these massive fireplaces and numerous color photographs showcase modern and historical examples in a variety of materials and configurations, from around the world. This volume functions not only as an introduction for Americans to a unique heating mechanism not often seen outside of Europe but also as a technical guide. Numerous build photos, planning drawings and appendices regarding insulation and other technical topics are included. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)