Nuts and Bolts: Seven Small Inventions That Changed the World (in a Big Way)

Written by Roma Agrawal

Narrated by Roma Agrawal

A structural engineer examines the seven most basic building blocks of engineering that have shaped the modern world.

Some of engineering's mightiest achievements are small in scale, even hidden-and yet, without them, the complex machinery on which our modern world runs would not exist. In Nuts and Bolts, Roma Agrawal examines seven of these extraordinary elements: the nail, the wheel, the spring, the lens, the magnet, the string, and the pump.

From the physics behind both Roman nails and modern skyscrapers to rudimentary springs that inspired lithium batteries, Agrawal shows us how even the most sophisticated items are built on the foundations of these ancient and fundamental breakthroughs in engineering. Agrawal explores an array of intricate technologies-dishwashers, spacesuits, microscopes, suspension bridges, breast pumps-making surprising connections and explaining how they work. Along the way, she recounts the stories of remarkable scientists and engineers from all over the world, and reveals how engineering has fundamentally changed the way we live.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tantor Media, Inc
• Release date: Nov 7, 2023
• ISBN: 9798350874747

Roma Agrawal

Roma Agrawal is a structural engineer who builds big. From footbridges and sculptures, to train stations and skyscrapers – including The Shard – she has left an indelible mark on London's landscape. She is a tireless promoter of engineering and technical careers to young people, particularly under-represented groups such as women. She has advised policymakers and governments on science education, and has given talks to thousands around the world at universities, schools and organisations including two for TEDx. Roma has been awarded international awards for her technical prowess and success in promoting the profession, including the prestigious Royal Academy of Engineering's Rooke Award. Roma has published articles on engineering, education and leadership, as well as being a television presenter. Roma is soon to appear on LEGO Masters on Channel 4, putting her engineering knowledge to use in judging structures built solely from LEGO. BUILT is her first book. romatheengineer.com / @RomaTheEngineer

Reviews for Nuts and Bolts

[Andrea Author · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book explores how seven seemingly simple elements—nail, wheel, spring, lens, magnet, string, and pump—underpin engineering innovations throughout history. Diverse examples show how these building blocks enable complex inventions that revolutionize life. The book reveals the outsized impact of elementary components on the advancement of engineering.

This book is brilliant and fun. It includes some personal anecdotes that humanize the inventions. It's fascinating to see how simple objects evolved into the advanced technology of the modern world. The narration by the author was well done.

Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.