Zephyr: Tracking a Dream Across America

Started reading this book on my first USA train ride in 25 years, the Zephyr heading to Chicago. With the exception of him expounding on a mystery story he and another passenger tried to concoct the book kept my attention. Essentially it is a story of taking the Chicago to San Francisco train and events on that trip, histories of points along the route, and rail anecdotes of all sorts woven into the train trip. The book also offered useful insights in my trip such as the fact that sleeper compartment passengers had a special lounge they could adjourn to in Chicago. It all makes me want to hop aboard again.

I could imagine myself riding in the Zephyr as I read the book. Great vivid pictures that I could play out in my own mind. Only negative was that he and another passenger spoke about some mystery novel for a chapter. Other than that, I would suggest this book to any railfan.

Kisor clearly enjoys train travel, and while he loves trains he wisely refrains from burying the reader in the sort of minutia that rail buffs feed on. Seldom does the story drag. The style is open and friendly, and it's clear that Kisor has respect and affection for the staff and passangers he meets on the train. The narrative style reminds me a little of John McPhee; Kisor has the same talent for fading into the background and letting the story tell itself.

This book is a wonderful look into the travels of the people who ride Amtraks California Zephyr. This is a wonderful human intrest book that will facinate you wether you are a railroad fan or not. The stories of the peoples lives, and the reasons that brought them to the train, are facinating. It is a must have for anyone who has ever experienced, or wanted to experience the thrill of riding the rails!