Ragette (an American-trained practicing architect in the Middle East; he teaches architecture at the American U. of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates) has written an impressive survey of traditional domestic buildings throughout the Arab region, including Northern Africa, the Eastern Mediterranean, and the Arabian Peninsula. The initial chapters describe geography, the human context, the history of the area's architecture, materials, structural types, types of shelter, elements of the plan, water and waste management, and traditional and exceptional designs. The remainder of the volume is given over to a large selection of case studies throughout the region, with plans and drawings for each. The volume, which is slightly oversized at 9.75x12<">, is heavily illustrated with high-quality b&w drawings and plans. A glossary of terms is provided. Distributed in the US by the National Book Network. Annotation (c) Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)