With its bold, substantial size, first impressions of colour expert Annie Sloan"s latest book is that this is an authoritative offering. Modern Paint Effects is not for the novice looking to slap a few coats of paint onto a new pad. It"s for the proud connoisseur. This guide to contemporary paint finishes is divided into two sections: using paint and plaster (from matt to pearlised paint, and polished plaster), and using pattern (including spots, dots and circles, and offbeat designs). Beautifully photographed by Tino Tedaldi, it features inspirational shots to illustrate the process of ideas. Congratulations also to the publishers for impeccable graphic design, that cleverly integrates a huge amount of practical information into a visually led book. From multicoloured sweets and sheets of shiny plastic wound round hay for glossy glazes, to city night lights and shooting stars for sparkle paints, it"s clear that Annie Sloan goes beyond simple colour. Her inspiration (and education for the reader) comes from new high tech materials, architecture, science, nature--with the sound background and expertise of classical design. For the adventurous who are way over rag rolling, this will more than satisfy. From combing and dragging, to stippling (a technique for softening hard colours with a flat brush) and frottage (using newspaper to make a textured impression), Annie Sloan makes an expert of the reader. Modern Paint Effects is as much an invaluable guide with step-by-step instructions as an inspiring, glossy coffee table companion.--Lorna V