The Basic Railfan Book
An introduction to railroading and essential
reference for railroad enthusiastsBy Ernest H. Robl
Continental Modeller (UK)
"This slightly unusual publication in loose leaf form describes itself as 'an introduction to railroading and essential reference for railroad enthusiasts' -- a bold claim, but one which it makes a pretty good attempt to justify." ...
"A lot of commonsense but there is also much shrewd observation, and a considerable compilation of material from other sources that might not normally be available -- or occur to the ordinary railfan." ...
"It is certainly interesting to have such a professional and objective view of railfanning ...."
-- Book Reviews, September 2004
National Railway Bulletin (National Railway Historical Society)
"Robl, through extensive research, has presented the novice railfan with a book that explains not only 'how to be a railfan' but with the basics of how this fascinating world of railroading works. ...
"Many veteran fans, I believe, will also want it as it is crammed with much useful information. ...
"The reader ... gets introductory courses on how railroads work, including train dispatching, signal systems, radio communications, and operating rules. ...
"All in all, this is a highly commendable effort that many fans (both young and old) will want to have."
-- Ray Cooney, New Books, National Railway Bulletin, Vol. 67, No. 1, 2002
Railfan & Railroad
"The Basic Railfan Book is packed with information intended to help beginning railfans understand the nature of the business, railroad nomenclature, and basic photography techniques.
"In plan language, the book outlines the early development of railroads, then delves into 'infrastructure,' operations, signals, communications, locomotives, rolling stock, traveling by train, photography, railroadiana, railfan trips, and finally, safety around railroads." ...
"... It's full of useful information that nearly any railfan, not just a neophyte can use."
"... Overall, The basic Railfan Book is a very good value, loaded with good, useful information."
Travelwriter Marketletter
"The author gives a detailed history of railroads in the US, the infrastructure, operation, to photography, and to the human elements of operating railroads. His comprehensive book has an excellent section on resources, as well as a description of railroads in other countries. At a time when some are considering alternative methods of transportation, this would be an excellent resource."
[Travelwriter Marketletter is a monthly newsletter for professional travelwriters and travel editors of newspapers and magazines.]
[Rev. 2004/09/15]
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