I just finished reading Electrical and Mechanical Engineering by David Baker, and I really enjoyed it. I’ve always liked engineering and understanding how things work, so this book felt like it was written for me. If life had gone differently, I probably would have gone into electrical engineering. These days I like programming because when I have an idea I can build it fast with very little—just a computer. With mechanical/electrical builds it takes time, patience, and a lot of resources, and with my ADHD I know I’d struggle with that. But reading about it—and seeing it explained visually—really clicked.
The diagrams were the best part. I’m a visual learner, and being able to see how systems connect made a huge difference. The space shuttle section was a highlight—how the computers and engines worked together to get us into space. I also liked the parts on electric motors and Tesla-style batteries; it gave me a better feel for how they work together.
The book is more of an overview than a deep dive. It felt like a survey of a four-year engineering program—touching on nuclear engineering, systems design, sensors, mechanisms, and control systems—without going super deep on any one topic. There were so many sections where I wished I could sit with a real expert and ask a bunch of questions.
Even so, it balanced history, theory, and practical examples well, and it made me excited about engineering all over again.
Overall, I’d give this one a solid 5 out of 5 stars. I loved it—especially the diagrams—and it reminded me why I’ve always been drawn to engineering and how things work.
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