“With a global view and his eyes cast skyward, Barr provides an enjoyable, expansive study of a subject he loves.”
“Mr. Barr examines to great effect the dictum “all real estate is local,” exploring the allure of skyscrapers and the global race to boast the world’s tallest towers in cities from London to Dubai to Shenzhen, China. A professor of economics at Rutgers University, he employs a survey approach to consider the evolution of skyscrapers. He has produced a welcome addition to the rich canon of books on the topic....”
“Cities in the Sky by urban economist Jason Barr offers a captivating examination of the world’s major skyscrapers, while making a compelling argument about why they are being built, and why our cities need them. Barr’s book, a result of extensive research, is both entertaining and educational, dissecting concepts like the ‘bedrock myth’ and the ‘status effect.’ Most importantly, it articulates the enduring significance of skyscrapers in cities, making it a valuable read for anyone keen to understand the dynamics behind our city skylines.”
– Stefan Al, author of Supertall: How the World's Tallest Buildings Are Reshaping Our Cities and Our Lives
“Jason M. Barr deftly walks the reader through the development of the skyscraper—from 1880s Chicago to present day Asia—and the issues that either prevented or made possible their heavens-aspiring construction. Economics, geography and politics, for example. Barr’s easy-going, conversational writing style makes his discussion of topics like engineering, community impact, and his vision of future cities as engaging to the layman as it is to the urban planner, economist, engineer and architect. Cities In the Sky is a fascinating and informative read.”
“Tall buildings, perhaps more than any other kind of human achievement, symbolize the identity of our urban places. Cities in the Sky is a captivating exploration of skyscrapers, filled with insider stories of how such buildings came to be and what their future might hold. It answered so many questions I didn’t even realize I had about the architecture, politics, and personalities that have influenced tall buildings over the years. Barr masterfully weaves together the history, myths, economics, and engineering behind the most iconic structures across the world’s skylines. More than just a history lesson, Cities in the Sky is about the ambition, ingenuity, and vision that encourage us to build higher and bolder.”
– Grady Hillhouse, host of Practical Engineering and author of Engineering in Plain Sight