Cities in the Sky: The Quest to Build the World's Tallest Skyscrapers BY Jason M. Barr

"Cities in the Sky" by Jason Barr offers a captivating exploration of the global phenomenon of skyscrapers, from their historical origins to their modern-day proliferation and impact on urban landscapes worldwide. Barr, a leading expert on the economics of skyscrapers, delves into the reasons behind the persistent quest for taller and taller buildings, despite controversies surrounding their cost, shadows, and ostentatiousness.

The book spans iconic skyscrapers like the Empire State Building and the Shanghai Tower, illustrating the architectural and engineering innovations that have fueled their construction. Barr unravels myths about early skyscrapers and examines how American cities expanded their skylines post-World War II with new technologies that later influenced global urban development in the 1990s.

Barr's narrative also explores the cultural and economic motivations driving skyscraper construction in different cities. He discusses London's historical aversion to skyscrapers, contrasting it with its 21st-century embrace, and examines Hong Kong's dense skyscraper clusters. The book further delves into China's skyscraper boom and Dubai's ambitious projects like the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building.

"Cities in the Sky" provides insights for urban enthusiasts, architecture buffs, and anyone interested in urban design. It evaluates the benefits and drawbacks of vertical cityscapes, offering a glimpse into the future of urban development and questioning whether cities will continue their upward trajectory.

Overall, Barr's comprehensive exploration of skyscrapers combines historical analysis with contemporary trends, shedding light on the complex factors driving the global fascination with these towering structures and their profound impact on modern urban life.