If you've ever gazed up at a skyscraper or admired an intricate bridge, you might find yourself wondering: how do they stay standing? In Structures: Or Why Things Don’t Fall Down, J.E. Gordon takes you on an enlightening journey through the world of engineering, stripping away the daunting jargon to uncover the basic forces that govern the structures we encounter daily.
Recognized by Business Insider as one of the "14 Books that inspired Elon Musk," this book serves as an informal tutorial on the mechanics of construction—perfect for both novices and professionals alike. Gordon deftly articulates complex concepts such as stress, shear, torsion, and compression with humor and clarity. You won't need a degree in engineering to grasp the essentials of why buildings, bridges, and even eggshells don’t crumble under pressure.
Consider how dams manage to hold back vast amounts of water, or how a well-constructed house withstands the test of time. Structures dives into these fascinating subjects and more, providing stories and insights that are equally educational and entertaining. Chapters like "How to Design a Worm" and "The Advantage of Being a Beam" make learning about engineering approachable and enjoyable.
Whether you're an architect, an engineer, or simply a curious reader, this book opens the door to understanding the basics of structural integrity. If you’re embarking on a building project or just looking to soak up some knowledge, this book will become a valuable reference. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, you’ll discover a newfound appreciation for the everyday structures that surround us.
Without oversimplifying or drowning in technicalities, Structures: Or Why Things Don’t Fall Down reveals the marvels of technology woven into the fabric of our lives. So come along, and let Gordon enlighten you about the hidden forces that support the world we live in.
