The Elements of Style

Just picked up a pretty neat "Encyclopedia of Domestic Architectural Details" book. If you're fascinated with finding out all the various terms for different types of moldings, or if you ever wondered what a "muntin" or a "baluster" is- this maybe is a good book for you. Covers from Jacobean and Tudor (1485-1625) to The Contemporary Era (1975- present day). Probably a great resourse for both concept artists and modelers- I feel as though it gives you all the details you need to keep your architecture and interiors accurate and consistent across a wide variety of western styles.
Published by Firefly Books, ISBN 1-55407-079-1 580 pages.

Baghdad Journal

Its actually an older book- I picked it up a couple years ago- and I first became aware of Steve Mumford a couple years ago through his ArtNet.com diary. He went over to Iraq during the 2003 invasion seemingly with one plan. To draw, paint, and to witness. He arrived there early enough that perhaps you could still walk the streets of Baghdad alone in relative safety. Sketchbook and paints in hand, he wrote and drew who he met and what he saw. Its a fantastic glimpse into a world my American ass will never ever see . I find its EXTREMELY RARE to find an artist who is doing something no one else is doing, or will likely ever be able to do. Most of his journal postings can be found here; http://www.artnet.com/Magazine/features/baghdadjournal.asp
But I really recommend you go out and buy this book in support of his work... not to mention just to have a well drawn and well written sketchbook of an occupied Middle East that will never ever be the same.
I tried to pull out some of my favorite sketches and paintings, very difficult cause there are so many good ones, but here are a few.
Buy this book.