6+ Favorite Books on Big Infrastructure Projects (So Far!)

Here is a roundup of my favorite books on big infrastructure projects (so far!). I hope you find something interesting & a little different.

Oregon Trail by Rinker Buck
$11.99

In Oregon Trail, Rinker Buck takes us on an adventurous ride across the historic Oregon Trail in a covered wagon, something that hasn't been done in over a century. His summer journey not only recounts this epic trek but also dives into the rich history of the trail, challenging the comforting myths we've all heard. Buck introduces us to a colorful cast of characters, from pioneers to scam artists, and highlights their bravery and struggles. I genuinely loved this book; it’s a fantastic blend of adventure and history with no downsides—just an incredible read all around!
Pros:
Epic adventure and historical insight
Engaging storytelling that shatters myths
Highlights forgotten roles and diverse perspectives
Captivating accounts of ordinary pioneers
Majestic depiction of the American West
Cons:
Nothing - it's incredible.
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02/26/2026 07:04 am GMT
The Big Roads by Earl Swift
$10.34

In The Big Roads, Earl Swift dives into the history of the U.S. interstate highway system, spotlighting the visionaries and engineers behind this monumental project. I found the book not only informative but also incredibly engaging, as it brings to life the people who shaped our roads and, by extension, our cities. The structure of the book makes it easy to follow, and it really opened my eyes to the complexities involved in constructing such a vast network. Honestly, I can't find a single thing I didn't like—it's a must-read for anyone curious about how our highways came to be!
Pros:
Engaging narrative that humanizes the people behind the highways
Informative read that covers history, politics, and key figures
Accessible and well-researched insight into a major public works project
Cons:
Nothing!
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02/25/2026 11:00 pm GMT
How Big Things Get Done by Bent Flyvbjerg
$12.90

In How Big Things Get Done, Bent Flyvbjerg explores the often frustrating world of projects—why they can drag on and cost so much, and how we can improve that. Personally, I've felt the pain watching local projects stall, and this book really hit home. It's engaging and insightful, packed with relatable stories that make complex topics clear. I appreciated the practical advice and the author's real-world expertise over academic jargon. While I would have liked a few visuals, the content is solid. Overall, it’s a must-read for anyone involved in planning or executing projects.
Pros:
The book is engaging and entertaining.
It provides practical insights applicable to various projects.
The author's expertise and data-driven approach enhance credibility.
The structure and stories make it memorable and useful.
The last chapter effectively summarizes key takeaways.
Cons:
I would have liked a few photos or illustrations.
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02/25/2026 11:01 pm GMT
Life on the Mississippi by Rinker Buck
$11.37

In Life on the Mississippi, Rinker Buck takes us on a fascinating journey as he builds a wooden flatboat and sails it down the historic river. His adventure is packed with excitement, from navigating tricky waters to camping on sandbars with a quirky crew. Buck not only shares his thrilling experiences but also dives into the rich history of America's westward expansion, challenging some common myths along the way. I found this book to be one of the best in the history travel genre—honestly, I couldn't find anything I disliked. It’s an incredible read!
Pros:
Engaging blend of history and travel
Richly satisfying work that brings a lost era to life
Strong themes of change, observation, and learning through travel
Cons:
Nothing - it's incredible.
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02/26/2026 06:04 am GMT
The Fifth Risk by Michael Lewis
$9.99

In The Fifth Risk, Michael Lewis takes a close look at the chaotic transition during Donald Trump's presidency, focusing on the Department of Energy, Agriculture, and Commerce. The book shines a light on the often-overlooked civil servants who keep our government running and the risks posed by a lack of understanding of federal operations. I loved how it highlighted the critical roles these employees play, like the sole person managing ocean rescue strategies for the entire U.S. The takeaway? We need to value and support our public sector. Honestly, I found nothing to dislike—it's an excellent read!
Pros:
The book focuses on the importance of federal government bureaucracy rather than just Trump.
It highlights the critical roles of government employees and their significant contributions.
It calls for better management and pay to make public sector jobs more attractive.
Cons:
Nothing - excellent read.
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02/26/2026 10:02 am GMT
Watershed by Mark Barr
$20.44

In Watershed by Mark Barr, the story takes us to rural Tennessee in 1937, focusing on the construction of a dam and its far-reaching effects on the community. The main characters, Nathan, an engineer, and Claire, a housewife, grapple with personal ambitions and deep-seated guilt. I really enjoyed the novel's rich exploration of the transformative changes happening in the American South during that era; it truly captured the essence of the time. However, I felt some side characters lacked depth, which was a bit disappointing. Overall, it’s a compelling read that I’d recommend to fans of historical fiction.
Pros:
Set in the fascinating 1930s American South.
Explores significant economic, cultural, and social changes.
Compelling story centered around a dam project.
Cons:
Some side characters are flat and undeveloped.
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02/26/2026 11:00 am GMT