An enjoyable book. It is written in what seems to be a popular approach, that is having several different parallel story lines running at the same time in order to give a more complete, or at least a broader perspective of the main story or subject of the book. The method also serves to set the story time with current events of the day. None of this is particularly bothersome but the end result is something of a watered down story. At some point, I felt that I was gaining a better insight to Buffalo Bill Cody and Annie Oakley than Gustave Eiffel and his tower.That having been said, there is enough detail about the tower and it's construction to give the reader an idea of some of the more challenging parts of the building process and securing government approval of the tower as well as, once built, it's impact on the Exposition Universelle of 1889 and some of it's more famous visitors, but there is much left to be learned.To that end, the notes in back of the book provides an excellent source for further reading and research.Great overall perspective and general history of the tower. This book is an eye- opening look at the construction of one of the modern world's most iconic structures and also event that surrounded its arrival as a wonder of the world. This is an entertaining portrait of Belle Époque France, loathing over Eiffel's design and the celebrities that made the 1889 Exposition Universelle an event to remember, including Buffalo Bill and his sharpshooter Annie Oakley, Thomas Edison, and artists Whistler, Gauguin, and Van Gogh. A very interesting tale of the Eiffel Tower and the events surrounding it.
What do You think about Eiffels Tower (2000)?
Not bad. Very informative. I never knew so much about Buffalo Bill or Whistler.
—Jessig
Interesting but missing the narrative flair that can make non-fiction sing.
—gera11
I liked this book, but it wasn't as good as Devil in the White City.
—kiwi349
Too much Buffalo Bill and not enough tower for me.
—feedoursouls
