From Introduction: "Origami calls for precision and imagination. If you flip through the pages of this book, you will find a great variety of familiar things conceived with imagination, style, and often a good deal of humor. Anyone can do this-it has been the special province of Oriental children for centuries-by closely following the step-by-step directions. The result is the gradual yet magical materialization of a solid object which delights a child. It is not surprising that Origami is taught in many South American schools. Patience, control, and perseverance in following all directions closely-which are the requisites of Origami-are part of the mental discipline necessary for a child's growth into maturity. But adults enjoy Origami just as much. It satisfies the same impulse which, for instance, prompts Winston Churchill to paint; it is an absorbing, creative, and entertaining hobby. Such different men as Shelley and Houdini were ardent paper-folders. Anyone who has completed this book can then go on to invent his own designs."