cover image The Apple Corps Guide to the Well-Built House

The Apple Corps Guide to the Well-Built House

Jim Locke. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (HMH), $19.95 (276pp) ISBN 978-0-395-43042-2

In this invaluable primer for anyone planning to work with professional builders on a new house or a renovation, Locke (quixotic Apple Corps builder in Tracy Kidder's House ) addresses the needs of those who want a sturdy and attractive house but tremble at the intricacies, risks and innumerable decisions required. He reasons that a well-built house is the only kind worth building, and explains how to build it, from choosing a conscientious builder to detailed finish work. Drawing on his own experience, Locke frankly recommends products and techniques for each stage of the process. Though some biases may be disputed by other builders, and some are best suited to New England, Locke explains his preferences and discusses all options so the consumer can make informed choices. Essential reading for prospective home builders, Locke's lively guide is a pleasure to read: principled, accurate, graceful, humorous. Informal drawings clarify technical details. (Oct.)