[A] compact epic . Spirited . [ The Driving Machine ] is brisk, lucid and enjoyable.--Richard Snow, Wall Street Journal An architect with a fascination for design, Rybczynski here turns his attention to automotive history, from the technology under the hood to what a car's appearance tells us about the consumer--and society--it belongs to. Even if you don't know a VW from a V8, this book will fascinate.--Kate Tuttle, Boston Globe [A] brisk, informative history of automotive design. Rybczynski is a lucid guide.--Henry Hitchings, The Times Literary Supplement Alluring.

The Driving Machine serves up bite-sized anecdotes, some sweet, some savory, like a tasting menu.Rybczynski sustains our curiosity until the last page. The author's signature delight and insight grace this breezy study.--Hamilton Cain, Minnesota Star Tribune Rybczynski skitters conversationally and conversantly through the automobile's nearly 150-year timeline, often from behind the wheel, veering into milestones, both well-worn and obscure, as if they were roadside attractions that could be narrated past, or pulled into and toured.--Brett Berk, Car and Driver [A] breezy, entertaining package that will be a fun read for a wide audience--not just car enthusiasts. Rybczynski has some great stories to tell, and his love for his subject shines through on every page.--Kirkus Reviews (starred review) With exuberant insight, Rybczynski offers an intriguing, cross-continental history of the evolution of automobile design over 150 years.The lively charm of this accessible, enjoyably mapped-out narrative is further enriched by [his] well-crafted drawings of referenced cars.

Automotive enthusiasts and general readers alike will be equally enthralled.--Kathleen Gerard, Shelf Awareness [An] affectionate history.--Brendan Driscoll, Booklist.