Both the books you mention are excellent for bowmaking. They have clear pictures and instructions to help you.
One has a European perspective, the other American. Both focus on primarily on flatbows, rather than English longbows.
I'd highly recommend both books for any bowyer.
I liked Eric Smith's book, but as you said its not strong on details, pictures and dimensions for making bows. Bowyers Bibles, Steve Alley books, and Reginald Laubin have more about making Am Indian bows.