Modeling the Transition Era (Layout Design and Planning)

Sort of disappointing. I have read other material from Tony Koester and he knows a LOT. Unfortunately, instead of looking at one of the most fascinating transitional eras in American railroading we get a mish-mash of sometime contradictory information. There is not a lot new here and most of what is presented pertains to the author's work on modeling one Midwest railroad (the NYC&StL or "Nickle Plate" line). I am not sorry that I bought this, but I am disappointed. In the past the author and publisher have shown they can do better, this just looks like a rush job. Too bad!

This book lacks information relevant to the subject. There’s hardly any decent pictures of what you’d expect to be something useful for trying to model the transition period. The whole reason I got it was for a source of basic information and mostly images to base my build off but there’s wasn’t anything good in it. You’d probably be better off with a collage textbook on the history of transportation post WW2 and not waste your money on publications from the model railroader people..

Overpriced for a average mag that does not do justice to the subject. Learned very little...hoping for more information on steam an diesel actual units of the postwar early 50 lines.

Very nice book that covers anything you need to know about the Transition Era. for your train layout.

A great resource for anyone modeling this very popular era. And, of course, Tony Koester's expertise is legendary. The best feature for me is the emphasis on distinctive visual aspects of the era that can be readily and effectively modeled.

It is a very good start, going from steam to deisel. There is a lot of goodHospital data on the change over,and cool photos.

Very Helpful & Informative! A must Have for your model railroading library!

Interesting book very little i didnt alteady know but a fun read and a nice addition to my library

I have followed articles and purchased books by Tony Koester for almost 20 years. He is extremely knowledgeable across a wide variety of topics related to the railroads of North America, and conveys that in an easy to read manner. Much of the information in this book has been published before, but only as individual articles over many years.This volume brings together an overall view of the changing aspects of railroading, and the socio-economic background, during the period between 1940 and 1960. Although it would require a much bigger volume to cover all aspects of the era in depth, the information contained is sufficient for most modelers to accurately recreate this time period in miniature.

Before purchasing this book I knew very little about the transition period of railroading. Having read the book I do now. Very informative across a wide range of inter related topics.

Very well written and an absorbing read. Enjoyable railroad history.

Another very readable and informative work by Tony. There are lots of great details about locomotive and operational practices of the period. Warmly recommended.

Good, comprehensive coverage, including cars and other relevant items.