Peter Brook /

Hunt and Reeves's wonderful, in-depth analysis of one of the premiere stage directors of the day both chronicles Brook's life and offers some perspective on the art he has created. Using direct quotations and thoughtful analysis, the authors suggest the evolution of Brook's approach to varying materials and points of view. Always before his time, Brook is honestly and in great detail revealed as an innovator of the first rank in the professional theater. Of interest to the reader will be the stories of many of the British theater's most talented and noted artists. Based in English stage tradition, Brook is revealed not so much as a rebel to his background as an explorer of truth and a discoverer of the essence and beauty of simplicity. This volume is a necessity for directors and designers of the professional and academic world. It also provides minor attention to film. For the general reader and undergraduate, it may be demanding rather than casual reading. Part of the "Directors in Perspective" series, this well-prepared and genuinely interesting analysis should be in any library serving serious theater artists. It will become the resource for many young directing students. J. H. Conger III Northern Kentucky University