Top 9 David Macaulay Books

Christopher Flynn
8 min readJul 13, 2024

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Delve into the captivating world of David Macaulay with this roundup of his most notable books. Get ready to explore the intricate mechanics of architecture, the wonders of engineering, and the mysteries of natural history as you journey through his thought-provoking narratives.

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1. Castle

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Step back in time and experience the magic of medieval Wales with the masterful storytelling of David Macaulay. “Castle” offers a unique journey as it takes you through the comprehensive planning, execution and completion of a thirteenth-century castle and its accompanying town. With an abundance of detailed illustrations, one can almost feel the weight of the stone, hear the hammering of the masons and smell the fresh mortar.

This enchanting story delves into the fascinating world of castle construction in a time where innovation and architecture truly held the hearts of men. “Castle” is a must-read for history enthusiasts and anyone with a curiosity for the past. A true testament to the ingenuity and determination of mankind, this captivating tale transports you to a world far removed from our own, where tales of chivalry and knights ruled supreme.

  • Authors: David Macaulay
  • Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
  • Published Date: July 05, 1977
  • Page Count: 94
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Juvenile Nonfiction
  • Average Rating: 4.5
  • Ratings Count: 6.0
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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2. Great Moments in Architecture

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Discover the humor and brilliance of architectural design in ‘Great Moments in Architecture’ by David Macaulay. This captivating book, released in 1978, features amusing sketches of iconic buildings and landmarks, revealing the behind-the-scenes ingenuity and creativity that went into their construction. Explore the history, art, and science of architectural marvels with this insightful and witty collection that will surely spark your curiosity and appreciation for these remarkable structures.

Don’t miss the chance to experience the joy and wonder of architecture like never before!

  • Authors: David Macaulay
  • Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
  • Published Date: April 14, 1978
  • Page Count: 116
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Architecture
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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3. Motel of the Mysteries

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In the year 4022, a buried civilization from 1985 is discovered by amateur archaeologist Howard Carson. While exploring an abandoned excavation site, Carson plummets into an ancient burial chamber. The chamber holds incredible finds, including remains on a ceremonial bed and a sarcophagus, which Carson uses to unravel the mysteries of this long-lost civilization.

With only 88 pages, this Young Adult Fiction book is a thrilling look at the history of ancient Usa.

  • Authors: David Macaulay
  • Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
  • Published Date: October 11, 1979
  • Page Count: 88
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Young Adult Fiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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4. Underground

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Underground by Caldecott Medal-winning author and illustrator David Macaulay is a captivating journey through the intricate systems hidden beneath modern cities. This beautifully illustrated and engaging book offers young readers an unprecedented glimpse into the labyrinth of tunnels, pipes, walls, and other structures that sustain life above ground.

Macaulay takes readers on a visual tour of a typical section of the city’s underground network, explaining how it all works. With his stunning illustrations, he presents a straightforward yet fascinating description of the complex world that lies beneath the feet of city dwellers.

Underground has received glowing reviews, including one from Kirkus, who called it “a breathtaking and entirely original insight” into the world beneath our cities. The New York Times praised Macaulay’s work, comparing it to Alice’s descent into Wonderland: “He invents an intersection of two streets and proceeds to show what we all might find if we dared to descend through that Alice-in-Wonderland manhole. “

Don’t miss out on this incredible exploration of the hidden depths of urban life! With its captivating illustrations and engaging storytelling, Underground is a must-read for young adults and anyone interested in the complex workings of our cities.

  • Authors: David Macaulay
  • Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
  • Published Date: March 23, 1983
  • Page Count: 105
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Young Adult Nonfiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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5. Angelo

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“Angelo, “ by David Macaulay, is a heartwarming tale that transports readers high above the rooftops of Rome. The story revolves around Angelo, a skilled craftsman who takes on the task of restoring a once-majestic church. During the restoration process, he encounters a wounded bird and becomes her reluctant protector.

Angelo soon worries about the bird’s future as the church nears completion, so he uses his artistic talents to provide a home for her. This uplifting tale spans 48 pages and is suitable for the Juvenile Fiction category, receiving an average rating of 4.5 stars from 2.0 ratings.

  • Authors: David Macaulay
  • Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
  • Published Date: April 10, 2006
  • Page Count: 48
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Juvenile Fiction
  • Average Rating: 4.5
  • Ratings Count: 2.0
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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6. The Way We Work

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Getting to Know the Amazing Human Body

“The Way We Work: Getting to Know the Amazing Human Body” is an enlightening and beautifully illustrated introduction to the complexity of the human body. Authors David Macaulay and Richard Walker take readers on a fascinating journey through the inner workings of all our systems and mechanisms.

This comprehensive guide, published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt in 2008, is perfect for juvenile nonfiction enthusiasts. With 344 pages and a 4.0 average rating, this book is sure to provide a well-rounded and engaging perspective on the miraculous operation of our bodies.

Experience the wonder of the human body and how everything works together in perfect harmony.

  • Authors: David Macaulay, Richard Walker
  • Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
  • Published Date: April 14, 2008
  • Page Count: 344
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Juvenile Nonfiction
  • Average Rating: 4.0
  • Ratings Count: 1.0
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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7. Built To Last

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Step into an architectural odyssey with award-winning author and artist David Macaulay in his visually stunning book, Built to Last. From ancient castles and magnificent cathedrals to timeless mosques, this inspiring volume invites you to explore the structures that defy the test of time.

This must-read book for lovers of architecture comes to life with newly researched information, awe-inspiring color illustrations, and fresh perspectives that celebrate the spirit of endurance. Discover what it means to build with purpose and leave a lasting legacy, exploring the strength of structures that endure and stand the test of time.

  • Authors: David Macaulay
  • Publisher: HarperCollins
  • Published Date: October 25, 2010
  • Page Count: 272
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Juvenile Nonfiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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8. The Way Things Work Now

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Discover the latest technological advancements that have transformed our daily lives in “The Way Things Work Now” by David Macaulay. As an update to the renowned bestseller, The New Way Things Work, this book takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the intricate machinery that governs our world.

Packed with wit and humor, Macaulay employs a charming and slow-witted woolly mammoth as the protagonist to guide readers through the fundamental principles of machines. From zippers to plows, dentist drills to rockets, and meat grinders to jumbo jets, Macaulay masterfully explains the connection between these inventions and their impact on modern society.

With the inclusion of the latest developments in touchscreens, 3D printers, and other groundbreaking technologies, this revised edition allows readers to understand the past while envisioning the world of tomorrow. Moreover, Macaulay incorporates an illustrated survey of significant inventions, a glossary of technical terms, and an index to facilitate learning and reference.

Join David Macaulay as he reveals the fascinating world of innovation, inviting readers to explore the remarkable link between seemingly unrelated machines that shape our lives today and the future we are building. “The Way Things Work Now” is an essential read for anyone curious about the inner workings of the devices that touch our lives every day and the potential of the wonders that await us.

  • Authors: David Macaulay
  • Publisher: HarperCollins
  • Published Date: October 04, 2016
  • Page Count: 400
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Young Adult Nonfiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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9. Crossing on Time

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Steam Engines, Fast Ships, and a Journey to the New World

Embark on a thrilling journey through time with David Macaulay, the co-creator of the global bestseller The Way Things Work, in his meticulously researched and stunningly illustrated book, Crossing on Time. This captivating exploration of the steamship’s history transforms ocean travel from wind-driven boats to magnificent steamships that changed the world forever.

By focusing on the SS United States, the most advanced and last steamship ever built, Macaulay brings the design, construction, and life of its brilliant designer and engineer, William Francis Gibbs, to vibrant life. Crossing on Time features a personal account of Macaulay’s experience crossing the Atlantic Ocean on the SS United States, expertly weaving a tale of childhood memories alongside the intriguing tale of steamship innovation. With awards such as the NCTE Orbis Pictus Recommended Book and inclusion on the Bank Street College of Education Best Children’s Books of the Year List, Crossing on Time is sure to captivate and educate its readers.

  • Authors: David Macaulay
  • Publisher: Roaring Brook Press
  • Published Date: May 07, 2019
  • Page Count: 128
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Juvenile Nonfiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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