The Great Book of Trains

This lavishly illustrated volume -- chock full of technical details on more than 300 of the world's greatest locomotives -- is sure to please even the most knowledgeable railfans. Tracing the development of railpower around the world, the book begins with the age of steam, describing a host of passenger locomotives that powered the world's first great railway boom, before going on to describe the most significant locomotives developed during the 150-plus years that followed -- each illustrated with a selection of archival photography and specially commissioned color drawings. From early pioneers of the 1830s to 20th century giants like Union Pacific's Challenger, the book provides full descriptions of every locomotive featured, along with fascinating facts and anecdotes. A text of great historical and technical value, the book also examines more efficient forms of railpower developed in the 1990s and looks ahead to the future of railroading.