How-to and model history books are always favorites amongst many of us and this latest title via MBI Publishing combines the two into one. What makes it even more interesting is that this one is on Spacecraft, a segment of scale modeling that has been growing quite a bit over the last decade or so, in part thanks to a number of smaller companies that have been producing models and accessories for the enthusiast.

An additional plus for this book is that it is written by Mat Irvine, who not only is an enthusiast, but has spent considerable time building models for various television shows and movies. In this book he has graciously shown us many of the techniques that he has used when doing movie models. All of this is companioned by a wealth of photographs so that we can duplicate these effects.

The book starts with a history of plastic model spacecraft, models that many of us quickly recognize from our youth. It then goes into a section of building a few selected kits. There is then a chapter on converting kits and clearing up some of the inevitable inaccuracies that crop up in kits. A section on applying decals and markings is next and on some kits, this can be a very daunting task.

Mat then takes us into a portion on how to use other materials to enhance our projects. The world of paper modeling is also covered with its own section. A major section is on Sci-Fi kits and how to weather models to get that 'dirty' look of a craft that has spent a lot of time in space. Figures are a part of space modeling and this is also given its own section. The book ends with two sections on doing dioramas, with the final part on how to design a spaceship to Mars and the accompanying surface features that it will meet.

In all, this is an outstanding book and the best one on the subject that I have read. It is one that I KNOW you will find just as useful and informative as did I and one I give my highest recommendation.

May 2007

My thanks to MBI for the review book. You can find this book at your local bookstore or direct from www.zenithpress.com

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