|
I wrote 'Miniature Railways' with the specific objective of bringing the subject to a new audience. In particular, I want to encourage young people to take part in the wonderful hobby of building and operating miniature railways. Computers and other modern gadgets can be fun, but they don't give the same sense of satisfaction as designing and building a small railway, or operating trains which give pleasure to many, many people.
I specifically chose Shire to be the publisher because they produce high quality books at a very reasonable price and then distribute them widely. Many people have had their first contact with an interesting topic via a Shire book, and the good news is that Shire's distribution of 'Miniature Railways' will help bring more people into the hobby.
It seems to be acceptable for authors to blow their own trumpet, so here are the reviews of the book:-
|
From Narrow Gauge News, issue 252, September 2002 (review by Brian Gent):-
This book is a superb introduction to all aspects of miniature railways with short chapters on history, gauge, civil engineering, locomotives, rolling stock and operation. If it was the author's intention to encourage people to become more interested in miniature railways, then that has been achieved. He lists societies and clubs, web sites, and his list of books for further reading includes where to get them from. All chapters are supported by superb photographs, past and present..... will have a wide appeal.
|
From the Heywood Journal, No. 51, Autumn 2002 (review by noted miniature railway author Robin Butterell):-
Michael Crofts has produced an excellent small book... lavishly illustrated with good colour photographs.
|
From Steam Railway Magazine, No. 276, October 11 2002 (review by "MH"):-
The author... displays an infectious enthusiasm for miniature railways. Unlike other books on the subject, where listings of railways form the core, this explores the many facets of miniature operation. Copiously illustrated with colour pictures, it covers everything from 5in to 15in gauge, and the more unusual 20in and 21in gauges...... Aimed at the general reader, the text is comprehensive yet fun...... It’s an enjoyable book, tackling an immense subject in a friendly, easy-to-use format and is well worth considering.
FOR – a lively, easy-going read
AGAINST – nothing of note
|
From 7 1/4" Gauge News, No. 103 (Winter 2002):-
This welcome addition to the well-known 'Shire' booklets.... covers all gauges from 5" with a well balanced mixture of sections on History, Construction, Locomotives and Rolling Stock. It is copiously illustrated with an excellent selection of largely colour views.... Excellent value at this price.
|
From Narrow Gauge and Industrial Railway Modelling Review, No. 52:-
A good little introductory book to the subject of miniature railways. Beside providing a little history the basic methods used to lay a miniature line, stock it, and operate it are all covered. A gazetteer provides plenty of places to visit and the good bibliography will assist the reader in locating more exhaustive material. There are also lists of clubs, etc. Excellently produced and good value.
|
From British Railway Modelling, February 2003 (review by David Brown):-
This is a lively 48 pages covering the history of the (miniature railway) genre in the U.K. with a look at the different gauges, locos, rolling stock, signalling, civil engineering, etc. There is a useful gazetteer of lines to visit, relevant further reading, society and website contacts.... As an introduction to its subject matter this colourful little book is a real winner. I'll see you in the queue at the booking office!'
|
Review by Simon Townsend on his excellent website - Rhyl Miniature Railway -(go to here for a link).
Michael intends this book as an introduction to the subject, to encourage more to enjoy its fascinations. This it will certainly achieve, but it is also the balance of the book which is remarkable, for between text, captions and pictures every aspect of miniature railways is touched upon. Chapters cover shapes and sizes, gauges, civil engineering, locomotives and rolling stock, then operating systems and signalling. Finally there is a brief 2002 gazeteer. In a short book like this nothing is covered in detail, but everything is touched upon, and there are frequent insights which could only have been written from first hand experience. The photographs are equally remarkable, covering all eras, and most in colour. All in all a grand title which surely achieves all it sets out to do.
|
|
The book can be ordered here.
|
|
|
|
Miniature Railways by Michael Crofts