Linda Soules

So You Want To Be A Roller Coaster Designer (Theme Park Engineer) by Linda Soules is a vibrant, engaging, and deeply informative introduction to the world of theme park engineering, specifically focusing on the art and science of roller coaster design. Aimed at readers aged 10 to 14 but accessible to a much broader audience, the book succeeds in making a complex STEM career both understandable and inspiring.

The book opens by capturing the thrill of roller coasters—not just as rides, but as carefully engineered experiences. She explains concepts like G-forces, potential and kinetic energy, and the importance of track geometry in a way that is both accurate and accessible. For example, the explanation of why loops are teardrop-shaped rather than circular is both a physics lesson and a story of engineering innovation.

Soules makes it clear that great roller coasters are not just about speed or height, but about crafting a sequence of emotions—anticipation, surprise, exhilaration—through precise design. The book details the process from computer simulations and scale models to real-world testing, highlighting the meticulous attention to safety and the iterative nature of engineering work.

The narrative is peppered with real-world examples, fun facts, and profiles of pioneering designers. The inclusion of practical activities—like building a marble run or keeping a ride journal—invites readers to experiment and think like engineers themselves.

The book combines technical detail with genuine enthusiasm, making the world of roller coaster design both accessible and exciting. The book not only informs but inspires, opening doors for readers to imagine themselves as the creators of tomorrow’s thrills.

Star rating: 5 Stars

Summary: An outstanding resource for curious children, aspiring engineers, and even adults interested in the magic behind theme park attractions.