Product DescriptionDesigned for senior-level and graduate courses in Dynamics of Structures and Earthquake Engineering. The text includes many topics encompassing the theory of structural dynamics and the application of this theory regarding earthquake analysis, response, and design of structures. No prior knowledge of structural dynamics is assumed and the manner of presentation is sufficiently detailed and integrated, to make the book suitable for self-study by students and professional engineers.If you want to learn the THEORY of structural dynamics, this is not the best book to get. This book does not cover many of the derivations and mathematics that are behind structural dynamics; rather, it gives a brief presentation of the theory and goes directly into earthquake engineering applications. If you want to learn the core fundamentals and theory of structural dynamics, I would highly recommend J.L. Humar's textbook: "Dynamics of Structures." That being said, it IS an excellent textbook for earthquake engineering, and is probably most valuable for practicing structural engineers or for any earthquake engineering course.I had the great opportunity of taking my dynamics class with Dr. Chopra. His book is amazing, and you will not find a practicing structural engineer without one of the editions of Dynamics of Structures in their bookshelf!The organization and presentation is excellent. It is organized into two main parts: single degree of freedom systems(SDF) and multiple degree of freedom systems(MDF). An in-depth study of SDF systems comes first naturally since MDF systems can be viewed as solving multiple SDF systems. In terms of rigor, many proofs and derivations are provided. These are usually kept separate at the end of various sections within the chapters such that the reader would not get lost in the details. The problems are also wonderful in that they challenge the reader to think critically about the subject. In short, it is a great book for students exposed to dynamics for the first time.Product Details Hardcover: 912 pages Publisher: Prentice Hall; 3 edition (September 1, 2006) Language: English ISBN-10: 013156174X ISBN-13: 978-0131561748 Product Dimensions: 9.3 x 7.1 x 1.6 inches