About the book

Join Roma Agrawal, the award-winning structural engineer who worked on The Shard, for an exciting behind-the-scenes look at some of the world’s most amazing landmarks. Meet the extraordinary people who challenged our beliefs about what’s possible, pioneering remarkable inventions that helped build the Brooklyn Bridge in the US, the Pantheon in Italy, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the Shard in England and the Sapporo Dome in Japan. Discover the ingenious methods engineers have come up with to enable us to build underground, underwater, on ice and even in space, and learn about the impact different forces and materials can have on a structure by carrying out your own engineering experiments from the ‘Try it at Home’ sections. With beautiful and detailed illustrations by Katie Hickey, get ready to see the built world around you like never before!  

What did the judges think?

Professor Alan Wilson, a Fellow of the Royal Society and Chair of the Judging Panel said: “I really enjoyed this book. We can find it easy to take for granted the things we see every day and this book explores the science and construction behind well-known buildings, landmarks and creations, from London’s sewers to the Brooklyn Bridge.”

About the author and illustrator

Roma Agrawal, MBE is an award-winning engineer, author and broadcaster. From footbridges to skyscrapers – including The Shard – she has left an indelible mark on London’s landscape. Roma is an inspiring promoter of engineering and technical careers to young people, particularly in under-represented groups and given talks around the world, including two for TEDx. She was awarded the prestigious Royal Academy of Engineering’s Rooke Award in 2018. 

Katie Hickey is an exceptional talent in children’s book illustration. Having grown up in Cornwall, and also in the Middle East, she takes inspiration from her travels and surroundings. Katie lives with her family and dogs in the countryside just outside London. 

Roma Agrawal
Roma Agrawal
Katie Hickey
Katie Hickey