First thing to know; this is more a coffee table book than a text book. But this was fine with me. I love art and I like learning new things but I don't have the time or attention span for a college course. This has a nice overview with great pictures and enough information to be interesting without being boring. It is a nice beginner's look but not something to buy if you want something in depth or with a wider scope. Would I sit down and just read this cover to cover? No, but I think it is a good deal for the price and I enjoy perusing it at a leisurely pace when I am in the mood. ( )