Michael Stefan Shaw

I have to admit this is not a book I would have picked up on my own. I'm not a big fan of railroads and I knew next to nothing about King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. But the author sent me an especially nice request for an honest review and I like history, so I agreed to give the book a try. I'm glad I did.

First, the book is put together exceptionally well. There are numerous photographs, both color and black and white, as well as images of various documents. The chapters are well organized, making the book easy to navigate and the history easy to follow. The research is impeccable.

Shaw's writing is that wonderful combination of professional and entertaining. This is often a difficult balance for nonfiction authors to achieve. Shaw handles his subject well, giving us the facts while instilling his love for the topic.

This book is about more than railroads. We get a look at the early culture of Pennsylvania and an understanding of the time period during which railroads came alive. I think this is a book that will appeal to those who love trains, as well as those who enjoy history and/or live in Pennsylvania.… (mehr)