The work of R. Harold Zook has been recognized as historically significant, particularly in Hinsdale, Illinois where he resided for 26 years. Zook demonstrated whimsy, spirituality and romanticism with attention to many details called fussy by some. Mary Daniels of the Chicago Tribune described his work as "Charmingly unique and superbly crafted. A Zook house smiles when it sees you, makes you feel happy and protected the moment you walk in." Sadly, many Zook homes and buildings have succumbed to the rubble pile, including the home he had designed for his second wife, Florence. It was replaced by a tennis court. In 2005 a developer bought Zook's home and studio and planned on demolition. Anonymous donors stepped up and the Hinsdale Historial Society as well as many others got into action, moving the buildings a mile-and-a-half south of their original location. This book documents that move and shows a veriety of buildings designed by Zook. Includes 335 photos and blueprints in color and black-and-white.

Betty Green grew up in Pennsylvania and worked in ERs and Psych Units as a Registered Nurse before having children. Her interest in architecture began while living in Memphis and continued after her family moved to a Chicago suburb. She became a docent for the Chicago Architectural Foundation and discovered R. Harold Zook in 1995 when she observed one of his homes being demolished. Since then, Betty's passion for preservation has deepened. Proceeds from sale of this book will be used for preservation of Zook buildings, particularly the Zook Home and Studio in Hinsdale, Illinois.

Paperback: 10 x 8  152 pages

Published: April 2, 2010

ISBN-13: 978-0981812687