Alcatraz : History and Design of a Landmark

"Shrouded in mystery and rich with history, Alcatraz draws over a million visitors each year. This enlightening volume provides the first complete history of Alcatraz told through its architecture. In friendly illustrations and accessible text, authors Donald MacDonald and Ira Nadel reveal the design decisions that have shaped the island from its first brick and masonry fortress to the infamous concrete cellblock, to the landscape design of its contemporary gardens and bird sanctuaries. Packed with intriguing facts throughout, this little treasure allows an unprecedented glimpse into the life of the island. In a lovely cloth-bound package, this is an eminently giftable book and an entertaining look at one of the nation's most visited destinations."--Provided by publisher This illustrated volume by the authors of Golden Gate Bridge explores the history and design of San Francisco's infamous island prison. Award-winning architect Donald MacDonald and acclaimed author Ira Nadel present the first complete history of Alcatraz told through its architecture. In friendly illustrations and accessible text, Alcatraz reveal the design decisions that have shaped the island from its first brick and masonry fortress to the infamous concrete cellblock, to the landscape design of its contemporary gardens and bird sanctuaries. Packed with intriguing facts throughout, this little treasure allows an unprecedented glimpse into the life of the island. It is an entertaining look at one of the nation's most visited destinations.