Overall, this is an excellent biography of a remarkable man...a thoroughly good read.

Max Hunt, VSCC Bulletin

"This book can be warmly commended to the many who still revere Rolt."

Journal of the Railway & Canal Historical Society

As railway enthusiasts, we are indebted to L.T.C.Rolt for his biographies of Brunel, the Stephensons and Telford, for the analysis of railway accidents in “Red for Danger”, for the early years of the Talyllyn Railway Preservation Society in “Railway Adventure” and for the other fourteen titles in the SLS Library. Many of us have read his three autobiographical books all beginning with “Landscape …” that provide insight into Kerr Stuart’s final years for instance. Victoria Owens has written on James Brindley and Lady Charlotte Guest and in researching Tom Rolt had the co-operation of his wives and children and access to private papers. The biography is a helpful reminder of the difficulty of making a living out of writing in post-war Britain and makes one appreciate more the research and insight that produced some much information on a readable and relatable style. It is interesting to note the conclusion “that engineering lives should feature so prominently in twenty-first century publishing … is a phenomenon for which he was largely – if indirectly – responsible.” There are full notes of references, bibliography and a comprehensive index. A very good read and highly recommended.

Gerry Nichols, SLS Journal

As featured in Waterways World Magazine - July 2024

Waterways World