Sassi does it again

I purchased this book as soon as it came out, and it as just about as dog eared as my copy of Basic Scenery for Model Railroaders. The book is full of details for creating those super detailing items that make scenes on our railroads all that more realistic. Aside from the amazing photos taken by Sassi, the detail of the articles helps to make these steps even for the most novice scenery builder, and makes it a must to have on your layout as you follow along.The book focuses on 3 scenes typical of model railroads that are based on the Eastern seaboard, although the steps can apply to any region of the US. The Farm, Main Street, and Trailer Park contain several articles showing how basic scenery for each scene was created and then how to super detail that scene.

One of the best sections of the book is on Main Street. While the scenery represents Johnstown, NY and the area surrounding the former Peerless mill, the reader can easily use the steps to represent their local Main Street. Details that really make the scene such as utility poles are discussed in detail, showing typical installations on houses in the US. While not the toyish poles that you some times see on some layouts, these are accurate representations of the real things, with drops, guy wires, push poles, transformers, power, and telephone networks. The resulting poles creates the cluttered look that is found on your typical street.

Pearless Mill

Pretty much other than that, the book is a must buy, and once again another gem of Sassi's talent.

Rating (out of 10): 10
Purchase?:
Price: $21.95