This brief but detailed book describes the images and histories behind the statues adorning the walls of the National Cathedral-gargoyles and grotesques. There is ample description of what actually is a gargoyle, their history, and how they are made. Most of the book contains small images of most of the gargoyles with brief descriptions. Some of the pictures are amazing, particularly ones that have ice flowing from the mouths of a gargoyle, making it look like they are breathing ice rather than fire. My only complaint is that the pictures could be larger and some of the statues deserve more than one photograph. However, the overall scope of the book makes up for this shortcoming. This is a great book for people who are particularly interested in American art forms and landmarks, particularly those who frequent Washington, DC. ( )