Many don't know that the vibrant Chinese city of Shanghai and our very own Miami Beach have something very special in common: Architecture.

This Thursday, you can check it out for yourself at the book signing and photography presentation of "Art Deco in Shanghai and Miami Beach" at the Miami Beach Botanical Garden. The event will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

After a bit of research I discovered many interesting facts about this topic; a building boom in Shanghai from 1920 to 1940 saw the creation of what is now the largest collection of art deco architecture on the entire Asian continent.

Now in the midst of a major Chinese building boom, many of these original buildings are being torn down to make way for industrial complexes. In sharp contrast, the vibrant Art Deco district on Miami Beach is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. How fascinating!

Co-authors Don and Nina Worth will be available to sign copies of the book, give a brief lecture, and host a presentation of more than100 photographs documenting their subject.

Admission is free. For more information call 305-673-7256. Don't miss out!