This book encompasses Sullivan's career, his artistic development, sources, and his system of ornament. His formula of ‘form follows function’ and how the use of terra cotta brought the steel frame to life are explained.  Thirty-two pen & ink drawings of ornamant on the interior and exterior of the building, give the viewer an opportunity to experience many ornamental motifs that are difficult to see at street level or that are inaccessible if the building is not open. A closer look results in a greater appreciation and understanding of the beauty and complexity of each motif.

The book also includes a two-page timeline of the history of the Guaranty Building from 1896-2011.  The terra cotta colored book cover is embossed, and there is a sepia vellum flyleaf of the building from a painting by the author. The book measures 9.5” in height and 7.5” in width and has 86 pages.