From Booklist
Every public library large or small needs a good history of the White House, and this one is not only good but outstanding. In 10 wide-ranging essays by authorities in their field, the executive mansion's evolution through two centuries is lovingly traced, including conception and design, construction and later reconstruction, and original furnishings and many subsequent refurbishings, all related with a wealth of detail, much of which will be unfamiliar to readers of most other general books on the subject. From the White House's beginning, when President Washington was actively involved in the planning of the new federal city named after him, to firsthand commentary on the contemporary program of White House upkeep by the current "Chief Usher," we are presented with facts, anecdotes, episodes, and personalities, all part of the story of a house that is also a home. Although the White House occupies an important place in our political and historical consciousness, this book's central thesis is that the place is not a stuffy museum but a constantly changing domestic habitat. The liberal presentation of illustrations greatly augments the text. Brad Hooper
Review
"Every public library large or small needs a good history of the White House, and this one is not only good but outstanding. In ten wide-ranging essays by authorities in their field, the executive mansion's evolution through two centuries is lovingly traced, including conception and design, construction and later reconstruction, and original furnishings and many subsequent refurbishings. . . . We are presented with facts, anecdotes, episodes, and personalities, all part of the story of a house that is also a home. . . . The liberal presentation of illustrations greatly augments the text." -- Booklist
This could also have been featured in our history section, but is reviewed here for its fine focus on American art as well as White House changes. Chapters review art collections, interior design changes, and White House decorations in an excellent survey of both artistic change and leader arrangements. -- Midwest Book Review
This could also have been featured in our history section, but is reviewed here for its fine focus on American art as well as White House changes. Chapters review art collections, interior design changes, and White House decorations in an excellent survey of both artistic change and leader arrangements. -- Midwest Book Review
