"An Introduction to the Finite Element Method" by J. N. Reddy is a comprehensive book on finite element methods (FEM) and their applications. It presents FEM as a variational-based technique for solving differential equations, unlike the traditional solid mechanics approach. The book covers FEM applications in fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and acoustics, and explains how FEM overcomes limitations of variational methods. It introduces the concept of representing complex domains as subdomains, using interpolation functions derived from polynomial approximations. The book includes five chapters and three computer programs (FEM1D, PLATE, and FEM2D), which aid in solving illustrative examples. Chapter 1 introduces FEM, historical context, and basic concepts. Chapter 2 covers variational formulation, boundary value problems, and time-dependent problems. Chapter 3 discusses one-dimensional second-order equations, errors in FEM solutions, and isoparametric elements. Chapter 4 focuses on two-dimensional problems, including elastic deformation, fluid flow, and plate bending. Chapter 5 introduces advanced topics like eigenvalue problems and nonlinear problems. The reviewer recommends the book as an excellent introduction to FEM but suggests expansion of the three-dimensional section and inclusion of specific methods for transient problems. "Earthquake Source Modeling, Ground Motion, and Structural Response" is a symposium edited by S. K. Datta, presenting recent advances in earthquake modeling and analysis. It includes 14 papers discussing ground motion recordings, wave propagation, surface motion amplification, and scattering of waves by obstacles. The papers explore the effects of geometry, surface layers, and seismic wave interactions on structures. The symposium highlights the importance of seismicity on structures and provides insights into earthquake-resistant design. The reviewer considers it an excellent resource on analytical and experimental findings in earthquake engineering."An Introduction to the Finite Element Method" by J. N. Reddy is a comprehensive book on finite element methods (FEM) and their applications. It presents FEM as a variational-based technique for solving differential equations, unlike the traditional solid mechanics approach. The book covers FEM applications in fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and acoustics, and explains how FEM overcomes limitations of variational methods. It introduces the concept of representing complex domains as subdomains, using interpolation functions derived from polynomial approximations. The book includes five chapters and three computer programs (FEM1D, PLATE, and FEM2D), which aid in solving illustrative examples. Chapter 1 introduces FEM, historical context, and basic concepts. Chapter 2 covers variational formulation, boundary value problems, and time-dependent problems. Chapter 3 discusses one-dimensional second-order equations, errors in FEM solutions, and isoparametric elements. Chapter 4 focuses on two-dimensional problems, including elastic deformation, fluid flow, and plate bending. Chapter 5 introduces advanced topics like eigenvalue problems and nonlinear problems. The reviewer recommends the book as an excellent introduction to FEM but suggests expansion of the three-dimensional section and inclusion of specific methods for transient problems. "Earthquake Source Modeling, Ground Motion, and Structural Response" is a symposium edited by S. K. Datta, presenting recent advances in earthquake modeling and analysis. It includes 14 papers discussing ground motion recordings, wave propagation, surface motion amplification, and scattering of waves by obstacles. The papers explore the effects of geometry, surface layers, and seismic wave interactions on structures. The symposium highlights the importance of seismicity on structures and provides insights into earthquake-resistant design. The reviewer considers it an excellent resource on analytical and experimental findings in earthquake engineering.