Crossing on Time

Written by David Macaulay

Discover the steamship's evolution and its impact on ocean travel.

4.2/5 Goodreads · 138 ratings

128 pages· 10,395 words· Est. 1.5 hour read

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Bookroo's summary

Embark on a journey through time with the SS United States, the pinnacle of steamship innovation. Follow William Francis Gibbs, the visionary behind its creation, as he transforms ocean travel. Experience the author's personal voyage across the Atlantic, weaving history with a touching childhood tale. What secrets does this majestic vessel hold?

From the publisher

David Macaulay, creator of the international bestseller The Way Things Work, brings his signature curiosity and detailing to the story of the steamship in this meticulously researched and stunningly illustrated book. Prior to the 1800s, ships crossing the Atlantic Ocean relied on the wind in their sails to make their journeys. But invention of steam power ushered in a new era of transportation that would change ocean travel forever: the steamship. Award-winning author-illustrator David Macaulay guides readers through the fascinating history that culminated in the building of the most advanced—and last—of these steamships: the SS United States. This book artfully explores the design and construction of the ship and the life of its designer and engineer, William Francis Gibbs. Framed around the author’s own experience steaming across the Atlantic on the very same SS United States, Crossing on Time is a tour de force of the art of explanation and a touching and surprising childhood story.

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