Peter's Railway and the Forgotten Engine
In his introduction to this book, Christopher Vine says that many readers turn to the technical sections first before enjoying the stories. As an engineer by profession, he is happy to explain scientific principles because "while many young children are really interested in how things work, they often lose this enquiring nature as they grow older".
The forgotten engine in this book is not a railway locomotive but a traction engine which Peter and his grandfather discover hidden in an old barn; there is also news of the extension of Peter's Railway (does that sound familiar?).
The technical treats this time include pistons, cylinders and valves; the boiler, steam and pressure gauge and automatic braking. Many adults will probably find this useful as well.
Click on the cover image to see John Wardle's picture of the forgotten engine being hauled out of the barn.
Christopher Vine, 2009, 96 pages. Hardback.