This book investigates the technical principles of kite construction and the historical evolution of kite design across various cultures. Authors Alice Weve and Jack Botermans utilize their expertise in design and craft to provide a comprehensive manual for building functional kites. The text serves as both a historical survey and a practical guide, detailing the specific materials and structural techniques required to successfully engineer forty distinct kite models.

Experts and hobbyists frequently cite this work as a foundational reference for those interested in the mechanics of kite building. Readers often note the clarity of the instructions, which makes complex structural designs accessible to beginners and experienced crafters alike.