New Children’s Book, Moxie, the Dachshund of Fallingwater, Makes Architecture Accessible and Fun
A clever dachshund named Moxie takes readers on an exuberant romp through Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterwork house in Moxie, the Dachshund of Fallingwater, by Cara Armstrong.
This new children’s book by Fallingwater’s curator of education explains some of the key concepts that influenced the house’s design in a friendly, casual style that appeals to children and adults alike. “I wanted to make the topic of architecture in general, and Fallingwater in particular, accessible and fun,” said Armstrong.
Prior to its nationwide release in early 2010, Moxie is available locally at the Fallingwater Museum Store or at FallingwaterMuseumStore.org. Armstrong will sign copies of her book at the Fallingwater Museum Store October 17, 2009, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.
The book’s stylish star and narrator is Moxie, one of seven long-haired dachshunds who live at the acclaimed house. The litter of dachshunds, whose names all begin with letter ‘M’, is loosely based on the long-haired dachshunds that lived at Fallingwater during the 1930s and 40s when the house was owned by the Kaufmann family. Mrs. Liliane Kaufmann raised several litters of dogs at the “Big House,” as Fallingwater was once called.
In the book, Moxie proudly points out sources of inspiration for Frank Lloyd Wright’s design and introduces readers to Fallingwater’s many remarkable features, such as its dramatic cantilevers, horizontal lines and exquisite details. Moxie and her canine companions also take readers on a dive into the plunge pool and a tour past the Bear Run waterfall over which Fallingwater is built.
With a special glossary that defines architectural terms, Moxie, the Dachshund of Fallingwater teaches new concepts and stirs creativity even as it delights readers.
What people are saying:
“The long wait is over – a book for children, and adults, about Fallingwater! Delightful and engaging from a point of view that both informs and entertains.”
– Dr. Claire Gallagher
Professor, School of Education Georgian Court University
“In Cara Armstrong’s delightful book, Moxie the Dachshund gives young readers a dog’s-eye-view of Fallingwater. It’s an insider’s tour you won’t want to miss.”
– Nancy Horan
Author, Loving Frank
“Moxie cavorts through the exquisitely illustrated pictures and leaps into our hearts. Her keen insight compels us to tour a world renowned architectural wonder and its surrounding landscape.”
– Barbara Nelson
Librarian, Hillside Grade School
“Like most dogs, Moxie knows the best spots in a house. During a spirited romp through Fallingwater, this pearl-wearing dachshund takes us on a charming tour of her beloved and remarkable home.”
– Jane King Hession
President, Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy
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About the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy
The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy (WPC) enhances the region’s quality of life by protecting and restoring exceptional places. A nonprofit conservation organization founded in 1932, WPC established six state parks and has conserved more than 225,000 acres of natural lands and waterways. The Conservancy owns and operates Fallingwater, the Frank Lloyd Wright house in Mill Run, Pa. that symbolizes people living in harmony with nature. In addition, WPC enriches our region’s cities and towns through 140 community gardens and greenspaces that are planted with the help of 8,300 volunteers. The work of the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy is accomplished through the support of more than 9,400 members. For more information, visit WaterLandLife.org.
Media contact:
Stephanie Kraynick
Director of Communications
(412) 586-2358
skraynick@paconserve.org