*Encyclopedia of North American Railroads* Editor W Middleto

[Kevin Wilson-Smith]

Encyclopedia of North American Railroads (Hardcover) - by William D. Middleton (Editor), George M. Smerk (Editor), Roberta L. Diehl (Editor).

I saw a copy the other day. Ahem - I have started to frantically save!

This is a big book, with over 1200 pages. I would also hazard a guess that if you are interested in American railways, as I am, then you will not be able to do without a copy of this.

Recently published, it is bang up-to-date. It is not so a really comprehensive reference book on the North American Railroads, covering a number of topics in relation to history, railroad terms, technical aspects, biographies, and even some social history. These are all covered in fire a number of articles which vary in length.

The book also contains an appendix with a number of basic maps.

It really looks like the kind of book that you keep by the side of the bed, and lever up when you want something to read! It certainly has a love of useful information, and is well written and easy to read, judging by some of the shorter articles that I looked at.

The articles range from half a page to about 17 pages - in double columns.

It is expensive, retailing and 99 US dollars, and remember you then have to add around $20 postage. Is it worth it? I would hazard a guess to say yes and providing you can perhaps get the book itself slightly cheaper and land it for the overall cost of around $80-$90 including postage.

Prices from the various sites do vary a bit, but the best deals in this case appeared to be via Amazon.com in the United States.

If you buy a copy let me know, then I can borrow it!