Architect? A Candid Guide to the Profession

**** "Architect? A Candid Guide to the Profession" by Roger Lewis offers an unvarnished look at a career in architecture, making it a pivotal read for anyone contemplating this path. Readers appreciate the author's straightforward style, which tackles the challenges of architectural education and the realities of working in the field. Lewis emphasizes that passion for architecture should be the core motivation behind pursuing this demanding career, challenging aspirants to weigh their dedication against the long journey of education and internship before achieving licensure. Many reviewers highlighted that the candor within the book has helped them reassess their commitment to architecture. While the practical advice is invaluable, it also serves as a wake-up call for potential students who may harbor misconceptions about the financial rewards in architecture. Despite some criticism regarding the author's qualifications—he is not a practicing architect but an architecture critic—readers find the advice sound and relevant. It provides a comprehensive overview of the profession, detailing not just curriculum requirements but also the personal sacrifices necessary for success. However, some readers expressed a desire for brevity, feeling that the book could have conveyed its essential messages more succinctly. Others noted the book's somewhat dated nature, as it does not reflect some of the newer architecture schools emerging today. Nonetheless, for those genuinely interested in architecture, Lewis's guide serves as both a motivator and a realistic depiction of what lies ahead. In summary, this book is best suited for dedicated individuals prepared to embrace the rigors of architectural study and practice, and it highlights the balance of passion and practicality that Prospective architects must possess. **