This book investigates the historical development and global diversity of steam-powered locomotive technology. Paul Price provides a visual and technical survey of steam trains, utilizing a collection of full-color photography to document the evolution of rail transport across various international regions. The work serves as a reference for enthusiasts interested in the mechanical design and operational history of steam engines.

Readers frequently note the accessibility of this text for casual enthusiasts and rail hobbyists. Experts highlight the visual quality of the photography as the primary strength of this survey.