The Transcontinental Railroad (A True Book Westward Expansion) (A True Book (Relaunch)) by John Perritano

This engaging history book chronicles the monumental effort to build the first transcontinental railroad, a project that physically united the United States. Young readers will be captivated by the detailed account of the railroad's design and the immense challenges faced during its construction, from the Sierra Nevada mountains to the Great Plains. The narrative vividly explains how this engineering marvel was completed in 1869, forever changing the nation's landscape and economy.

What sets this book apart is its focus on the human drama and problem-solving behind this great American adventure, making history feel immediate and thrilling. Middle-grade students with an interest in transportation, engineering, or the expansion of the American West will find it particularly compelling. The story of the railroad's creation and its profound impact provides a tangible, exciting gateway into understanding 19th-century American history.