Built: The Hidden Stories Behind Our Structures

Winner of the AAAS/Subaru SB&F Prize for Excellence in Science Books

The wonders of engineering revealed--by the inspirational female engineer behind the Shard, Western Europe's tallest building.

While our cities are full of incredible engineering feats, most of us live with little idea of what goes into creating the built environment, let alone how a new building goes up, what it is constructed upon, or how it remains standing.

In Built, star structural engineer Roma Agrawal explains how construction has evolved from the mud huts of our ancestors to skyscrapers of steel that reach into the sky. She unearths how humans have tunneled through solid mountains; how we've walked across the widest of rivers, and tamed nature's precious water resources. She tells vivid tales of the visionaries who created the groundbreaking materials used to build the Pantheon and the Eiffel Tower; and explains how careful engineering can minimize tragedies like the collapse of the Quebec Bridge. Interweaving science, history, illustrations, and personal stories, Built offers a fascinating window into a subject that makes up the foundation of our everyday lives.

Author: Roma Agrawal
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA
Published: 02/13/2018
Pages: 320
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 1.30lbs
Size: 9.40h x 6.40w x 1.20d
ISBN: 9781635570229

About the Author

Roma Agrawal is a structural engineer who builds BIG--bridges, sculptures, train stations, and skyscrapers, including western Europe's tallest tower, the Shard. A tireless promoter of engineering, scientific, and technical careers to young people, particularly underrepresented groups such as women, she has advised policymakers and governments on science education and has given talks to thousands around the world at universities, schools, and organizations, including two for TEDx. She is a television presenter and writes articles about engineering, education, and leadership. Her awards for technical prowess and success in promoting the profession include the Institution of Structural Engineers' Young Structural Engineer of the Year Award and the prestigious Royal Academy of Engineering's Rooke Award. Built is her first book. She grew up in Ohio, New York, and Mumbai, and now lives in London.

romatheengineer.com / @RomaTheEngineer