The book has an eclectic layout with short essays about the historical and cultural development of trends and crafts interspersed with short step-by-step project tutorials such as a baby quilt from the depression era, an 1830s ladies' reticule (purse), apple pie, and raised garden beds. There are 50+ tutorials which are grouped roughly thematically: crafts, cooking & food, design & decorating, and gardening.
Interwoven throughout are interesting micro-essays on the history of the Smithsonian, its endowment and development, and other cultural tidbits about American society and culture. I found it accessible and interesting. The tutorials are well delineated in the table of contents with a yellow "MAKE IT" label. Tutorials are illustrated and well photographed with materials listed bullet point in a sidebar (measurements in American standard measures only, no metric equivalents), descriptions, and step by step instructions with photos.
The rest of the book is full of historical photos from adverts, newspapers, and other media of the period. There are pictures from the public knitting efforts during the world wars, ephemera, recipe clippings as well as oral traditions from the more complicated darker periods of American history (slave cooking and West African/American fusion culture).
This would make a superlative selection for library use, makers groups, activity groups, home crafter's library, or for readers who are interested in American culture. It's not in-depth on any one craft or technique, but it does cover a broad range of different crafts and projects.
Four and a half stars. Remarkable collection of historical photos and information. It does include a cross referenced index.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
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