Are you interested in engineering? These books are for you

The following books provide not only knowledge but also inspiration and a deeper understanding of the world of engineering. Whether you’re interested in structures, materials, aviation, or innovation, there’s something on this list for every aspiring engineer.

1. “To Engineer Is Human: The Role of Failure in Successful Design” by Henry Petroski

• This book explores the role of failure in engineering design and how engineers learn from mistakes to create better solutions.

2. “The New Science of Strong Materials or Why You Don’t Fall Through the Floor” by J.E. Gordon

• A fascinating look at the materials used in engineering, explaining the science behind why certain materials are used for different applications.

3. “Structures: Or Why Things Don’t Fall Down” by J.E. Gordon

• An accessible introduction to the principles of structural engineering, explaining why buildings and bridges are designed the way they are.

4. “Stuff Matters: Exploring the Marvelous Materials That Shape Our Man-Made World” by Mark Miodownik

• This book delves into the science and engineering of everyday materials, explaining their properties and how they are used in various applications.

5. “The Wright Brothers” by David McCullough

• A biography of the Wright brothers, pioneers of aviation engineering, detailing their journey to inventing and flying the world’s first successful airplane.

6. “Rocket Boys: A Memoir” by Homer H. Hickam Jr.

• This memoir tells the story of a group of high school students in the 1950s who become fascinated with rocketry, leading to their involvement in the early days of space exploration.

7. “Skunk Works: A Personal Memoir of My Years of Lockheed” by Ben R. Rich and Leo Janos

• An insider’s look at the renowned Skunk Works engineering team at Lockheed Martin, responsible for developing groundbreaking aircraft like the SR-71 Blackbird.

8. “The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind” by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer

• The inspiring true story of a young Malawian boy who built a windmill from scrap materials to bring electricity to his village, showcasing the power of engineering ingenuity.

9. “The Disappearing Spoon: And Other True Tales of Madness, Love, and the History of the World from the Periodic Table of the Elements” by Sam Kean

• While not strictly about engineering, this book offers entertaining stories about the elements and their role in shaping history and technology.

10. “Skyscraper: The Making of a Building” by Karl Sabbagh

• Follows the construction of a skyscraper from the planning stages to completion, providing insights into the engineering challenges of building tall structures.

11. “Gulp: Adventures on the Alimentary Canal” by Mary Roach

• Another non-engineering book, but it provides a fun and informative look at the science and engineering behind the human digestive system.

12. “Leonardo da Vinci” by Walter Isaacson

• While a biography of Leonardo da Vinci, this book explores his engineering designs and inventions, offering a glimpse into the mind of a brilliant engineer.

Tips for Reading:

• Don’t feel pressured to read all of these books at once. Pick one or two that catch your interest to start with.
• Look for books that combine storytelling with engineering concepts, as they can be both informative and engaging.
• Consider joining a book club or discussing these books with friends or teachers who share your interest in engineering.
• Take notes or jot down questions while reading. This can help deepen your understanding and lead to further exploration of engineering topics.