If you want to learn particle flow this is the book for you. Pete does things I never thought 3DS Max was capable of. The tuts in the book are great and there are a couple of bonus video tuts on the accompanying DVD. Buy this book!

This book has EXCELLENT tutorials, very descriptive and in-depth, the only complaint I have is it needs more tutorials on water, such as a running faucet tutorial, would've been helpful for my 3d animation class.

a great book - the only flaws are that is it not for beginners and it doesnt tell u much about changing the parameters to change each effect to your own style - otherwise- i loved it

I have only recently started working with 3ds max, yet i could follow along with every single tutorial in this great book, simply because the book takes you through every single detail of the scene creation process. One of the best 3ds Max books I have come across yet.

This book is great for creating scenes. It saved me some cash because I could develop the scene myself, instead of buying a scene online.
The one criticism is that it gives very specific tutorials for generating several scenes. But it doesn't have a general discussion of techniques.

Deconstructing the Elements, 2nd edition is basically what you wish every reference book could be. The binding is strong even though it's a soft-cover and the pages are all color matte finish. Almost every step of every walk-through in this text contains an image of what you should be seeing in 3dsMax.

I was personally surprised to see that every technique is grounded in real-world observation. The cigarette smoke tutorial takes a full page to investigate how a real smoke trail acts before attempting to replicate it in 3d. Draper moves quickly but guides you along the way making for a very intuitive yet fast approach.

I believe Pete still has his web-site up and running at Xenomorphic.co.uk

If you're looking to create realistic effects and scenes in 3dsMax, you will not be sorry when you purchase this book.

This book is fantastic. I've read at least 12 books on 3ds Max. This is easily one of the best. The author avoids overly technical jargon and is always clear, concise and to the point. This is for intermediate level users. Having used Max for 4 years now I was impressed with all the new things I learned. Take your time, don't get frustrated and you'll get the most out of this book. If nothing else you'll learn about Particle Flow which is an amazing tool.

I'm 3 tutorials in and very impressed so far, especially with the methodology behind the use of materials to simulate phenomena. The included screenshots on the DVD Rom have been very useful when I miss something, and the reference material is outstanding. This is definitely for users with some experience, and is refreshingly lacking in redundant instructions, but should add a level of sophistication to any 3D artist's toolbox.
I just wish I knew they were going to drop $20 off the price before I preordered...

I am a student currently studying Digital Animation and Game Design. I first heard of Pete Draper's book from a fellow classmate who currently owns a first edition copy. Just thumbing through the tutorials my jaw dropped.

Deconstructing the Elements has fast become the keystone to many students personal 3ds Max libraries. (We have even been recommending it to our teachers) The tutorials are laid out fantastically and teach you as much about the concepts as well as `how to.'

Deconstructing the Elements is the best resource for anyone who wants to learn elemental effects and particle systems within 3ds Max. I can't wait for this book...