Pei, one of the giants of 20C architecture, was born in the early years of the century and continues to practice today. In this book, he talks with Fumihiko Maki about memorable personages and projects from a career that has spanned more than half a century, including descriptions of his encounters with Gropius and Aalto which convey the admirable qualities of these eminent architects as teachers and friends. This issue is the first of a new series that will deliver a new perspective on 20C architecture through interviews in which prominent architects look back on their careers in conversations with other architects.