"Way's research has prepared her well as an interpreter of Haag's residential design, public work, and very importantly, post-industrial landscape remediation. She documents the evolution of his design practice and theory, his influences and influence, and very interestingly, the history of the founding department of landscape architecture at the University of Washington."—Therese O'Malley, associate dean, Center for Advanced Study in the Visual Arts, National Gallery of Art
"Thaïsa Way has filled a conspicuous gap in the history of landscape architecture in the United States. Her well-researched combination of insightful biographical narrative and perceptive case studies illuminates the core values informing the brilliant and enduring accomplishments of Richard Haag as designer, educator, and political activist."—Reuben Rainey, University of Virginia
"Although Seattle's Gas Works Park is a well-recognized project throughout the world, few people are aware that Richard Haag, an accomplished landscape architect, designed this modern masterpiece. Way's book fills a gap in design literature with her examination of Haag's design work and its contribution to twentieth-century design. She also addresses his role as a challenging and imaginative educator of leading landscape architects who, inspired by his creative and poetic insights, pursued their own significant careers. The book is a 'must read' for anyone interested in modern landscape design."—Linda Jewell, UC Berkeley
"Well known for his masterpieces, the pioneering Gas Works Park and the inspiring Bloedel Reserve, landscape historian Thaïsa Way explores the depth and breadth of Richard Haag's designs and his skill as a civic advocate, exponent of an emerging ecological aesthetic, and founder of the University of Washington landscape architecture department. Influenced by a deep encounter with Japan, his career profoundly impacted the landscape of the Pacific Northwest. Haag had an astute understanding of forces of nature; Way shows how Haag is one as well."—Kenneth Helphand, University of Oregon
"Thaïsa Way has given us a wonderfully readable exposition of Richard Haag, the man and his practice, that is able to address the cultural and professional milieu of his evolution, as well as a sophisticated exploration of Haag's design sensibility and its manifestation in built landscapes. This is just the kind of perceptive exploration of the development of contemporary ideas in landscape design to inspire scholars, practitioners and enthusiasts."—Elizabeth Mossop, Spackman Mossop Michaels
