kjscrafts's Full Review: Zachary M. Schrag - The Great Society Subway: A Hi...
This is a great history of the Washington Metro system. It gives an in depth look at the planning and politics involved in making what is now the Metro system. It is, however, not the kind of book that will appeal to all. I found it interesting because it was about the Metro system, which I frequently ride, and I was often reading as I rode the Metro. I found it was really enjoyable to read as I was riding the Metro, especially when it was describing station architecture. In contrast I did notice the book did not have the same appeal of keeping me wanting to read more when I was not on the Metro. I am not saying I did not enjoy it when not riding the Metro, but rather that the ability to see the outcome of the history the book is describing really adds to the ability to relate and enjoy the book. That said if you have never ridden the D.C. Metro system you will probably find this book confusing and/or just downright boring.
For one, the way it is written makes it necessary that you are familiar with the current system that the history is leading up to. Thus unless you have ridden the Metro a lot you may find some of the things/stations it is referring to confusing. Secondly, it is hard to appreciate the history of the politics of funding it and the continuous change of plans if you have not enjoyed the outcome that exists today.
The book does in the end kind of glorify the Metro system, however, it does not try to say it is now entirely perfect. Rather it does in the conclusion briefly touch on how the Metro still has its problems, but coming out of the history of the highway system it was the alternative for it has proved to be a good alternative and that its real worth cannot be determined with it having only finished all its original 1960s plan in 2001.
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