From Edison to Enron - Richard Munson

Name the last century's greatest technical feat. You might suggest the automobile or the internal combustion engine. Maybe the airplane or the computer chip. No, say the professional engineers. The twentieth century's most significant accomplishment was to generate and harness an invisible stream of electrons.

First, let me confess that I read this book for a book club held by the Energy Division of the California Public Utilities Commission. It is certainly a topic of more interest to regulatory analysts than the lay public. That being said, the author does a nice job of describing the history of the electrification of America.

The most interesting parts of the book are found in the title- Edison and Enron. Edison was quite a character and not always a nice guy. His battles with Westinghouse to determine if America would be wired with AC or DC power are legendary. If you want see how nasty they got, try reading "Edison and the Electric Chair". The early years of electricity were wild times. The Enron scandal was no less wild and the author does a good job of briefly describing how the problems arose. He also offers a nice conclusion with ideas on to best move the US forward with our electric industry.

The book is written in a matter of fact style and takes a neutral position on most issues. It is meant for readers with a deep interest in the subject.