The Car: The History of the Automobile

I bought this book thinking it would be a history of the automobile; not an unreasonable assumption, given the title. It is far from what the title makes it seem like. I suppose that isn't surprising, given the author is an architecture critic, that he didn't want to write much about a topic he doesn't enjoy. The essay at the beginning of the book told me two things: the author really loves buildings, and he doesn't like cars very much. Why he picked the car as a topic for a book is a mystery, but the lack of enthusiasm for the subject is readily apparent.The book has little history in it, beyond the photos, which I will admit are quite nice. Had the book been titled "A Photographic History of the Automobile" or something similar, it would have been more appropriate. Perhaps because he isn't a gearhead, he has a lot of cars in the book you don't normally see, which is a good thing, but unfortunately, the pictures have little in the way of information.The bottom line is, if you want to read about automotive history, don't but this book. If you want a photo book for your coffee table and you like cars, this will work.

I bought this book as a gift for my father. He loves cars and has been in the car business for over 20 years. The book is full of high quality photos, which is why I chose it.

Helped with my son's research project

All I expected.

This book was purchased for a 12 year old who loves cars; anything about cars, etc. This is a good mix of text and photographs which would appeal to an adult or younger person whose interests include the who, when, where, what and why of the subject.

Great book---loved the photos! Whenever you're ready to see them up close and personal you'll need  1000 Historic Automobile Sites , listing all the great car museums, collections and other neat places to go to see great cars in person and learn more about them. They're listed by state and country... 1000 in all! With an active table of contents, you can use it on your phone or kindle in the car and it lists addresses, telephone numbers, hours and is live linked to their websites so it helps you get there too.

a fascinating read, profusely illustrated with 'period' photos.

If you need a book for history of CARS this is the one.Great read.

Good read for any car fan, with clear text and good photos, many of which are period shots, bringing back great memories

Nice , bought as a gift, want to read myself!

My dad loved it.