Book details
Why Humans Build Up: The Rise of Towers, Temples and Skyscrapers (Orca Timeline, 1)
Description
★"This great STEAM offering has multiple applications and will be useful for report writers and aspiring architects alike."-Booklist, starred review
★"Finely detailed inside and outside...Broad in scope, perceptively organized, and enriched with fascinating entries."-Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Why did they build it so high?
People have been constructing tall buildings for thousands of years, for many different reasons. Castle walls kept people safe. Utility towers transmit TV and cell-phone signals. Observatories give people a bird's-eye view of the world. Beautiful buildings stand out in the crowd. Skyscrapers provide housing for a lot of people. There are some good reasons for building up, and a few bad ones as well.
With a growing global population, we will need more and more space to live, learn and work in. But what does that mean for the health of the planet? Can we do it sustainably? Tall buildings may be part of the answer. From the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Leaning Tower of Pisa to the Burj Khalifa and the Shanghai Tower, Why Humans Build Up asks why and how we build higher and higher, and what that means for the planet.
Age
9-12
Text complexity
advanced
Length
96 pages
Book in series
#1
Why to read
- Gain Historical Insight: Reading 'Why Humans Build Up: The Rise of Towers, Temples and Skyscrapers' offers a comprehensive overview of the architectural evolution of human societies. It allows readers to understand the historical significance of vertical structures and their impact on cultural, religious, and social development.
- Appreciate Architectural Innovation: The book provides an in-depth look at the technological advancements and engineering feats that have enabled humans to construct increasingly tall and complex buildings. Readers will gain an appreciation for the ingenuity and creativity that drive architectural innovation.
- Understand Societal Implications: By exploring the reasons behind the construction of towers, temples, and skyscrapers, the book delves into the societal implications of these structures, including their role in demonstrating power, wealth, and technological prowess, as well as their influence on urbanization and the environment.
- Inspire Curiosity and Learning: For those interested in architecture, history, or urban development, this book serves as a captivating resource that inspires curiosity and encourages further learning. It provides a foundation for readers to explore the subject matter more deeply and to seek out additional information on the fascinating topic of human construction.