I found this book to be an exhaustive history of the Panama Canal and reading it was exhausting. The depth of research and analysis of the multitude of issues and personalities is impressive. Where I find fault with this book is the fact that the author refers to many important geological details throughout the book, and provides only two very small, postage stamp sized maps. One was virtually impossible to read. The photographs provided are of very poor quality and again too small to be useful. An online search brought up a number of excellent photographs taken during construction of the canal. Mr. McCullough also goes into great detail in describing a variety of mechanical structures, such as the machines used for digging the canal, pouring the concrete and the structure of the locks but provides no photos or diagrams. I found this like reading the mechanical description of an engine or transmission with no diagrams or photos to enhance the readers understanding.

Excellent writing with great detail and knowledge

Most people know that the USA built the Panama Canal. But how many know of the work that was done prior to the US taking over the project. Lots of detail of the many different engineering, medical, organizational and geological hurdles that were over come - just to get started. A great history of a major human endeavor that had such a major impact on society. In many ways, a triumph that even stands above the Apollo moon missions.

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Hits all the right notes as a masterpiece. Everything you ever wanted to know about the canal and more. Could only be better if it was read by the author and enjoyed as a recording.

This was an interesting book, thorough with lots of detail written in a manner that made it hard to put down. I knew this story in pieces, but one comprehensive look at how the canal was built made it all come together.

Interesting but it could have been shortened. Too many details and names that deviate from the flow of the story. Not his best work, for sure.