Saturday, February 12, 2005
hBook tells the taleof the brothers Greene
The architectural contributions of brothers Charles and Henry Greene might seem an unlikely topic for a children's book. Nevertheless, Kathleen Thorne-Thomsen has managed to weave a tale that not only tells the brothers' story but also encompasses glimpses of American life during their time, a bit of architectural history and activities that encourage creativity.
"Greene & amp; Greene for Kids" follows the lives of the Greene brothers, who helped popularize the Arts and Crafts style in the United States and pioneered the California bungalow. Thorne-Thomsen shares the experiences that influenced the brothers and introduces her young readers to several of the Greenes' influential houses. To give that information context and engage her readers, she also slips in tidbits about America in the late 1800s and early 1900s -- what people ate, what their houses were like and even how they might have carved a soap sculpture or made a root beer float.
The book is published by Gibbs Smith, Publisher, and sells for $17.95.
New product makesorganizing closets easy
The hardest part of organizing a closet isn't weeding out your old stuff or folding everything neatly. It's planning and installing a closet-organizing system.
Rubbermaid makes the task a little easier with its Configurations system.
All the elements of the closet-organizing system hang from adjustable brackets, so it's quick to install and easy to rearrange. Expandable rods and shelves eliminate the need for cutting.
A kit big enough for a 4- to 8-foot closet has a suggested retail price of $219.97. Add-ons and accessories are available.
Configurations is available at Home Depot and eventually will be in other stores. More information is at www.rubbermaidcloset.com.