As some others have said this book is good for artists who have some mild experience. But no doubt techniques such as enveloping, blocking in, and learning how to scan your eyes to see form is something that is very important. This of course this isn't the whole picture to drawing technique, and as one review said following his technique could to some degree eventually make your drawings a bit like his; if perhaps you ever got such a precise eye. So don't take this book and try to become the next Tony Ryder. I recommend borrowing it. If you know how to block in figures and break down form, shade and so on, this book won't be of much use to you except to see Ryder's drawings (which tend to get boring since they're more about preciseness and not the work). But Ryder is a good guy and doing his part for classical realism. So if you got the money support him and support the movement!

I recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn the correct way to draw the human figure in an accurate and realistic way. I went to art school in the early eighties and was never taught this approach to drawing and now that I have read this book my life drawing skills have improved immensely.

The study of classical drawing of Old Masters is not only necessary step, but enjoyable touch to timeless magic of art.

I actually started out using the Bargue Drawing Course (invented in the 19th century) to learn classical drawing methods. This book is the PERFECT addendum for anyone that is trying to understand how to draw accurately from life. The Bargue Drawing Course is VERY light on technical tips (since it was intended for use in an atelier where a master could instruct the student on proper technique).

Most drawing classes today emphasize gestural drawing and 'quick' drawing. These are very useful skills to have (no doubt!), but accuracy and good draftsmanship will never come from gestural and quick practice. Someone seeking to be well rounded in the technical aspects of drawing can do no better than with this book. Before exposure to this book my drawing was 'topped'.. this gave me the tools to take my drawing to the next level.

This is an excellent book. It takes a fresh look at teaching both beginners and experienced artists on his approach. It's very well written and easy to understand. This is one of the best art instruction books, if not the best, that I've ever worked with.