isn't this just what everyone wants....a grown up play house? what a charming book, with luscious photos of dreamy locations....tucked away in the woods or just behind the clothesline in the back yard. loved the writing and the photos....and the stories of how each of these tiny houses changed the lives of the owners. some are modest....some extravagant...all imaginative and reflective of the inhabitants who created a little space all their own.

Debra Prinzing's newest book is a wonderful collaboration with William Wright, as photographer. Together, they documented fantastic outbuildings across the United States. These artist's retreats, decorator paradises, and architectural jewelry for the main house can sometimes scarcely be called sheds, but Ms. Prinzing makes all of us feel like friends who have dropped over for a glass of iced tea on a sunny afternoon.

I knew I was in for quality enjoyment when I opened the book, and the first line paraphrased Virginia Woolf's "room of one's own." Hasn't every writer or artist longed for such a place? I know I have, and now I have several templates from which to choose.

Debra Prinzing describes "salvaged" spaces as individual as their owners, detailing how such private places inspire the writers, artists, architects, gardeners and other creative people who are as interesting as their imaginative structures and favorite collectibles. From imported antiques that furnish the elegant outdoor dining room at the Babcock-Nahra abode to the rustic charm of the Boltons' Texas barn and the Suttons' graceful Japanese teahouse, these hideaways will make readers yearn for their own cozy nooks.

Debra Prinzing hit a home run with this book! How did she manage to locate so many creative garden houses and sheds, and each so unique? (Yes, she explains all that). There must be something about having your own special structure that fulfills some primal need in us. Those amazing structures she has included in the book are so personal you feel you have been given some insight into the character of the owners. As for me, I found myself dreaming about building my own garden house. It is easy for me to visualize it as an art studio, but also a place conducive to writing, as well as a wonderful place to escape to and curl up on a comfortable couch with a good book and a glass of wine ... while feeling attached to the outdoors as a gentle rain is trickling down the window panes. Debra, thanks for all the great ideas!